Good morning, Columbus. Here's a number that could change everything: 1.7 million. That's how many Ohio students could soon say goodbye to hunting for lunch money or feeling the sting of cafeteria debt. As state lawmakers cross party lines faster than kids racing to the pizza line, Ohio stands poised to join the growing movement of states ensuring no student learns on an empty stomach.
Speaking of transformative changes, Columbus's corporate landscape is shifting as JPMorgan Chase bids farewell to a familiar face. Corrine Burger, who helped make the company Central Ohio's largest private employer, is trading her corner office for retirement after 34 years. But like the school lunch program waiting in the wings, her legacy of community investment and workforce development promises to feed Columbus's growth long after her March departure.
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82%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🍎 Ohio lawmakers unite to push free meals for 1.7 million students. A bipartisan Senate bill, introduced by Republican Louis Blessing III and Democrat Kent Smith, aims to provide free breakfast and lunch in all Ohio public and charter schools. The legislation joins similar initiatives already implemented in eight other states, including California and Massachusetts. Currently under review in the Senate Finance Committee, the bill could make Ohio the ninth state to offer universal free school meals. If passed, the program would serve the state's entire public school population of over 1.7 million students.
💼 JPMorgan Chase's Columbus chief Corrine Burger exits after 34-year career. The managing director and location leader will retire March 31, passing the torch to Becky Griffin, current head of Chase Home Lending's servicing operations. As chief control officer for consumer banking since 2016, Burger oversaw global risk management while championing workforce development and affordable housing initiatives in Columbus. Under her leadership, JPMorgan Chase became Central Ohio's largest private employer, with 18,600 employees across the region. The Dublin resident and Ohio State graduate plans to continue her board service post-retirement.
🎤 Featured Event of the Week
Arnold Sports Festival
Where: Greater Columbus Convention Center
When: February 27-March 2
🏋️♂️ The Arnold Sports Festival returns to Columbus this week! From February 27 to March 2, the Greater Columbus Convention Center will host one of the world's largest multi-sport events, featuring competitions in bodybuilding, strongman, and more. Attendees can explore hundreds of booths showcasing the latest in sports equipment, apparel, and nutrition, with opportunities to meet top athletes. Highlights include the Arnold Classic physique competitions and the Arnold Strongman Classic. Tickets are available, and free shuttle services will operate between major downtown hotels and the venue.
🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Boys)
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
 St. Charles (9-14) | ||
vs Mifflin* | W 56-36 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Spacious ranch with investment potential: Charming and affordable, this spacious ranch is an inviting investment opportunity with a large eat-in kitchen, generous living room, and a ready-to-finish basement, all paired with a fenced yard and oversized garage. The online auction starts at $135,000 and ends on March 25, 2025.
Spacious home near downtown amenities: This charming two-story home is listed at $239,900 and offers nearly 1,400 SQFT across three spacious bedrooms and a cozy family room with a wood-burning fireplace, along with an expansive backyard perfect for entertaining. Located conveniently near Downtown Bexley, shopping, and parks, it provides a blend of comfort and accessibility.
Updated home with spacious lot: This beautiful two-story home on a double corner lot in North Baltimore is listed at $206,900. Recently updated, it features a new kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, along with an all-new first-floor bathroom and a professionally waterproofed basement.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
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