Good morning, Cincinnati. As builders across the Queen City crunch their numbers, a perfect storm of Trump-era tariffs and labor shortages threatens to inflate construction costs by a budget-busting 8%. It's the kind of economic headwind that has major projects like UC's expansion and our new convention center hotel racing against the clock to lock in prices before they soar higher than our beloved Carew Tower.
But while some costs climb, other Cincinnati institutions are reaching new heights. Northwestern Mutual is celebrating 160 years in our region by opening its fourth local office, led by trailblazing director Jacki Purcell. And speaking of pioneers, homegrown EV maker Workhorse just got the green light to roll their electric delivery vans onto Canadian roads – proving that Cincinnati innovation knows no borders.
🌤 Sky Skoop | |||||||
|
0%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🏗️ Trump tariffs could spike construction costs by 8% in Cincinnati projects. Skanska USA's market report warns that new tariffs on Chinese imports, steel, and aluminum will drive up expenses for builders across the board. The impact is expected to hit private development projects particularly hard, with materials from HVAC equipment to lumber facing price hikes. Labor shortages in Cincinnati's construction sector could further compound costs, especially with several major projects breaking ground soon. Projects like UC's expansion and the new convention center hotel are racing to lock in prices before increases take effect.
💼 Northwestern Mutual expands Cincinnati presence with fourth office amid milestone celebration. The insurance giant's Cincinnati agency is opening a new 6,000-square-foot space in Kenwood Tower this spring, marking its 160th anniversary in the region. Jacki Purcell, the only female Northwestern Mutual managing director in Ohio, will lead the new office with 30 financial advisers. The expansion comes as the agency serves 64,000 clients with $6.2 billion in assets under management. At just 36, Purcell aims to diversify and younger the industry's aging workforce.
🚛 Electric vehicle maker Workhorse cleared to sell delivery vans in Canada. The Cincinnati-based company received federal approval to import and sell its W750 and W56 all-electric step vans throughout the country, targeting businesses transitioning to zero-emission fleets. Workhorse plans to begin on-road testing with a last-mile delivery fleet by Q2 2025. The expansion comes despite recent challenges, including a stock price slump and workforce reductions, though the company continues landing new orders from companies like FedEx. The move aligns with Canada's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions in transportation.
🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Boys)
In a night of Cincinnati hoops action, Sycamore pulled off the upset of the evening, downing powerhouse Archbishop Moeller 44-36 in a defensive slugfest. Meanwhile, Taft continued their winning ways with a nail-biting 53-48 victory over Bishop Fenwick, while CHCA and Cincinnati College Prep Academy cruised to comfortable wins against their respective opponents. The stage is now set for an epic showdown as the 17-5 CCPA Lions prepare to face the undefeated Russia Raiders (24-0) in what could be Friday's game of the year.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
 Taft (15-6) | ||
@ Bishop Fenwick* | W 53-48 | |
 Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy (20-4) | ||
@ Bethel-Tate* | W 69-34 | |
 Cincinnati College Prep Academy (17-5) | ||
vs Fayetteville-Perry* | W 51-40 | |
 Archbishop Moeller (17-6) | ||
@ Sycamore* | L 44-36 |
🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Girls)
In a nail-biter that came down to the final buzzer, Walnut Hills squeaked past Mount Notre Dame 50-48, pushing their impressive season record to 20-5. The Eagles will look to keep their talons sharp as they prepare for a showdown with the red-hot Princeton Vikings (19-6) on Sunday.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
 Walnut Hills (20-5) | ||
vs Mount Notre Dame* | W 50-48 | |
 Mount Notre Dame (22-3) | ||
vs Walnut Hills* | L 50-48 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
DIY dream home auction bargain: This absolute auction presents a unique opportunity for DIY enthusiasts with a 1-acre lot priced at $15,000. The home requires extensive renovation due to significant mold issues, with bidding closing March 6, 2025, at 6:00 PM.
Ranch retreat in Hyde Park: Nestled on a private lane in Hyde Park, this ranch-style home at 4 Walsh Lane is listed for $975,000 and features spacious one-floor living, a chef's kitchen, and serene outdoor spaces ideal for entertaining.
Charming Tudor near Ault Park: This charming 3 bed/1.5 bath Tudor home in the sought-after Mt. Lookout and Kilgour School District features original hardwood floors, a speakeasy bar, and recent updates throughout. Priced at $445,000 and conveniently located near Ault Park, it promises character and comfort.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
💰 Financial Friday
Take the time to review your subscriptions and memberships regularly; you may be surprised to find services you no longer use or need, which can free up extra cash each month for savings or other expenses.
|
|