Good morning, Columbus. From the Underground Railroad to moving trucks, E.E. Ward Moving & Storage Co. has been carrying Columbus forward since 1881. As America's oldest Black-owned business celebrates over 140 years of continuous operation, it reminds us that some of the most powerful legacies start with a simple act of courage - like John T. Ward helping enslaved people find freedom before transforming his mission into a legitimate enterprise.
That spirit of transformation lives on in modern Columbus. While ProMusica Chamber Orchestra "strips down" classical masterpieces in their innovative Naked Classics series - think of it as a musical version of your favorite cooking show - other parts of our community grapple with unfinished stories. The unsolved mystery of William Howard's 2016 murder reminds us that some journeys toward truth require patience, persistence, and community support.
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0%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🎵 Classical music gets stripped down in unique Columbus concert series. ProMusica Chamber Orchestra's "Naked Classics" series returns to Southern Theatre, offering an educational deconstruction of Schubert's "Death and the Maiden." Like a cooking show, the performance breaks down the historic context and musical elements before serving up the complete masterpiece. CEO Janet Chen emphasizes the concert's accessibility, welcoming both newcomers and classical music aficionados to learn something new. The one-night-only event takes place February 28 in downtown Columbus.
🔍 Eight years later, a Columbus murder remains shrouded in mystery. Police are still searching for answers in the November 2016 shooting death of William Howard, who was found unresponsive in his West Side doorway. Investigators say Howard had agreed to meet an unknown person at his South Odgen Avenue residence before being shot and robbed. Though police recovered a handgun and broken glass at the scene, no suspects have been identified. Central Ohio Crime Stoppers is offering a cash reward for information leading to an arrest.
🏢 America's oldest Black-owned business started by helping slaves escape to freedom. Founded in 1881, E.E. Ward Moving & Storage Co. in Columbus began when John T. Ward, a free Black man, transformed his Underground Railroad operation into a legitimate moving company. The family business, passed down through generations, evolved from horse-and-buggy transport to a modern moving company with operations in multiple states. Now owned by Brian and Dominique Brooks, the company continues its legacy of community service and social justice, following the path set by previous owners like Eldon Ward, who served on over 40 community boards.
🏒 Hockey Scoreboard
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
 St. Charles (17-8-7) | ||
vs Olentangy* | W 5-1 |
🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Boys)
Talk about a mixed bag in Central Ohio hoops! Africentric Early College showed no mercy in a 59-21 demolition of Utica, improving to an impressive 21-2 as they tune up for tournament time. Meanwhile, Buckeye Valley squeaked past East 57-53 in a nail-biter, while Bishop Ready had their way with East Knox in a lopsided 60-24 affair that was over before halftime.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
 Africentric Early College (21-2) | ||
vs Utica** | W 59-21 | |
 East (9-12) | ||
@ Buckeye Valley** | L 57-53 | |
 Eastmoor Academy (11-11) | ||
vs Marion-Franklin** | W 67-49 | |
 Marion-Franklin (2-20) | ||
@ Eastmoor Academy** | L 67-49 | |
 Bishop Ready (20-3) | ||
vs East Knox** | W 60-24 |
🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Girls)
The Nubians proved too much for Fredericktown in a defensive slugfest, grinding out a 46-38 victory that showcased more grit than glamour. Africentric (18-7) looks to keep their momentum rolling against Clear Fork's red-hot Colts, who gallop into Tuesday's clash sporting an impressive 22-3 record.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Africentric Early College (18-7) | ||
vs Fredericktown* | W 46-38 |
🎤 Featured Event
Underground Railroad in Central Ohio Exhibit
Where: Columbus Metropolitan Library, Northside Branch
When: February 24-28
🚂 Discover Central Ohio's hidden role in the Underground Railroad. The Columbus Metropolitan Library's Northside branch is hosting an immersive exhibit from February 24-28, shedding light on the region's history as a crucial stop for freedom seekers. Visitors will explore probable Underground Railroad sites in Columbus and learn about the brave individuals who helped enslaved people escape to safety. This free exhibit offers a deep dive into a powerful chapter of American history. Don't miss this chance to connect with the past in a meaningful way.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Spacious duplex with private decks: This exceptional duplex, listed at $265,000, boasts 2,340 sqft with 3 beds and 2.5 baths in each unit, featuring cozy living spaces, granite kitchens, and private outdoor decks overlooking a fenced backyard.
Spacious duplex with cozy decks: This exceptional duplex, priced at $265,000, features two spacious units, each with 3 beds, 2.5 baths, a cozy living room with a fireplace, and a private deck overlooking a fenced backyard. It's perfect for those seeking comfort and charm in a great location.
Spacious home with luxurious bath: This spacious 3-bed, 2.5-bath home is listed for $285,000 and features fresh paint, a primary suite with a luxurious bath, a loft, upper-level laundry, and a new patio in a fenced backyard.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
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