Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Franklin County / December 18, 2024

🏦 Women at the helm

Franklin County • December 18, 2024

Good morning, Franklin County. The recent grand opening of Fortuna Bank in Grandview Heights marks a significant milestone as Ohio's first majority women-owned bank, focused on empowering women through financial literacy and mentorship—what a great way to kick off a new venture with $20.7 million raised! Meanwhile, Columbus police have cleared the air regarding rumors of a serial killer after the tragic discovery of three women, emphasizing that the incidents are not connected; Community safety remains a top priority. On a less cheerful note, the Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund won't see a rate increase this year as lawmakers opted against it, leaving fund director Mary Beth Foley concerned about meeting long-term liabilities without additional support.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Columbus Weather Icon
29°
38°
rain 89%
Dublin Weather Icon
29°
38°
rain 83%
Gahanna Weather Icon
28°
38°
rain 87%
Hilliard Weather Icon
29°
37°
rain 87%
Reynoldsburg Weather Icon
28°
38°
rain 87%
Grove City Weather Icon
29°
38°
rain 89%
Westerville Weather Icon
28°
37°
rain 83%
Upper Arlington Weather Icon
29°
38°
rain 88%
Worthington Weather Icon
29°
38°
rain 83%
Whitehall Weather Icon
28°
38°
rain 87%

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🏦 Fortuna Bank opens its doors in Grandview Heights. This new establishment is the first majority women-owned bank in Ohio and one of just 20 across the country. Its grand opening, attended by co-founder Lisa Berger, marks the culmination of three years of hard work, with the first account opened on December 9. Fortuna Bank aims to support women through financial literacy and mentorship initiatives, while prioritizing a careful roll-out of services as they fine-tune their operations. With an impressive $20.7 million raised from about 350 shareholders, Fortuna is poised to make a meaningful impact in the local banking landscape.

Read more

🔍 Columbus police clarify serial killer rumors. Following the tragic discovery of three women shot dead in a South Side home, speculation swept through social media suggesting a serial killer was at large. Columbus police quickly dispelled these rumors, stating that there are no active investigations related to a serial killer in their jurisdiction. During a news conference, Deputy Chief Smith Weir confirmed that the incidents in question are not connected and emphasized that an arrest has been made in a related case. The victims, identified earlier this week, were found by a friend who went to check on them, underscoring the community's concern for safety in the area.

Read more

🚓 Ohio police and fire pension fund faces a tough year. State lawmakers have decided not to approve a rate increase for the Ohio Police & Fire Pension Fund, leaving contributions from employers unchanged. The proposed House Bill 296 aimed to boost employer rates to help strengthen the fund but met resistance from local governments, concerned about an $78 million annual cost. Fund director Mary Beth Foley expressed disappointment, indicating that the fund may struggle to meet its 30-year liability requirement without new funding. While the bill did not pass, advocates are hopeful for reconsideration in the next legislative session.

Read more

🏒 Hockey Schedule

Team Opponent Date/Time
Thomas Worthington CARDINALS Logo Thomas Worthington CARDINALS
vs Lincoln
12/20 @ 7:30pm
@ Dublin Coffman
12/21 @ 5:30pm
@ New Albany
12/22 @ 2:00pm
Upper Arlington Golden Bears Logo Upper Arlington Golden Bears
@ Findlay**
12/20 @ 5:00pm
vs Walsh Jesuit**
12/21 @ 7:30am
@ Padua Franciscan**
12/21 @ 3:30pm
Dublin Coffman Shamrocks Logo Dublin Coffman Shamrocks
@ Dublin Jerome
12/20 @ 7:30pm
vs Thomas Worthington
12/21 @ 5:30pm
Dublin Jerome Celtics Logo Dublin Jerome Celtics
vs Dublin Coffman
12/20 @ 7:30pm
vs Olentangy
12/22 @ 4:45pm
New Albany Eagles Logo New Albany Eagles
vs Olentangy Orange
12/21 @ 5:10pm
vs Thomas Worthington
12/22 @ 2:00pm
Lincoln Lions Logo Lincoln Lions
@ Thomas Worthington
12/20 @ 7:30pm

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Spacious home with inviting updates

This beautiful home is listed at $465,000 and boasts an inviting open entry that leads into a spacious living room with built-in shelving. The kitchen features a center island and flows into a cozy family room, while the upstairs includes four bedrooms, including a luxurious primary suite with a soaking tub. Recent updates enhance the property, and the fenced yard with a patio provides a perfect outdoor retreat.

Ranch home with serene sunroom

This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath Ranch home in Meadow Grove North Subdivision is listed at $459,000. It features a fenced backyard, a sunroom perfect for relaxation, a spacious walk-in pantry, and a large master suite in this well-maintained, single-owner property. More photos will be available soon.

Spacious bi-level family home

This well-maintained bi-level home in Royal Manor is listed at $289,000 and is move-in ready, featuring a bright living room, spacious kitchen, and three bedrooms on the main floor. The lower level offers additional living space with a family/rec room, another bedroom, and a cozy 4-season room that's perfect for entertaining, along with a detached two-car garage and off-street parking available.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

Schools Out Winter - Scioto Southland

Scioto Southland Community Center, 3901 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH

Dec 20

More Info

Karaoke with Ace

Eldorado's Bar Food & Spirits, 4968 N High St, Columbus, OH

Dec 22

More Info

Worship in PINK!

462 Kimball Pl, Columbus, OH

Dec 22

More Info

Rays Of Light Spiritualist Church Service

4211 Maize Rd, Columbus, OH

Dec 22

More Info

🙏 In Remembrance

John Alexander McDonald

John Alexander McDonald, 92, of New Albany, Ohio, passed away on December 11, 2024. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Patricia, and leaves behind three children and twelve grandchildren. A graduate of the University of Iowa with a law degree, John enjoyed a long career in the securities industry and was an active member of his community in Galion, Ohio. He was known for his passion for golf, community service, and his involvement in various local organizations. A visitation will be held on December 20, 2024, at Bexley United Methodist Church, followed by a funeral service.

John Alexander McDonald

Nelson E. Hane

Nelson E. Hane Jr., 74, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on December 13, 2024. He was born on June 28, 1950, to Nelson Hane Sr. and Betty Hane-Harper, and is preceded in death by his first wife and several siblings. He is survived by his wife, Arnetta "Nettie" Hane, children, bonus son, sister, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many friends. A dedicated member of Lockbourne Freewill Baptist Church, calling hours will be held on December 21, 2024, followed by a funeral service and burial at Jackson Township Cemetery.

Nelson E. Hane

Robert Janetsky

Robert L. Janetsky, 92, of Columbus, OH, passed away on December 14, 2024. Born on July 7, 1932, in Portsmouth, OH, he is survived by his daughters Debra Chandler, Robin Roberts, and Kim Janetsky, as well as his stepdaughter Marsha Hillyard and brother William Thomas. He leaves behind five grandsons, one granddaughter, two great-grandsons, and four great-granddaughters. He was preceded in death by his wife Martha, his mother Margaret, and his sisters Carolyn Povazan and Betty Skiver. Donations in his memory may be made to the Riverside Hospitals Heart Center.

Robert Janetsky

Susan Lynne Andrykovich

Susan Lynne Andrykovich, born on April 3, 1962, passed away on December 12, 2024. She is survived by her husband, Dennis G. Andrykovich, their children Dennis A. Andrykovich and Sarah Andrykovich Boyd, and grandchildren, including Darius Boyd. Known for her vibrant personality, Susan had a passion for baking, loved Christmas, and was deeply devoted to her family. Services will be held on December 29, 2024, in New Albany, Ohio.

Susan Lynne Andrykovich

Bonnie Jean Pack

Bonnie J. Pack, 92, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024, in Lewis Center, Ohio. Born in Waren Cliff, WV, she is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and several siblings and in-laws. Bonnie is survived by her brother, two sons, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and numerous extended family. A graduate of Gilbert High School, she worked at Western Electric and the Ohio State Liquor Control before dedicating herself to being a stay-at-home mom and devout Christian. Her funeral will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home, followed by interment at Obetz Cemetery.

Kathleen S. Gummere

Kathy S. Gummere, 72, of Circleville, passed away on December 13, 2024. Born in August 1952 to Beecher and Esther Gummere, she graduated from Whitehall-Yearling High School in 1970. Kathy is survived by her son Michael, grandchildren Brianna and James, sisters, and several nieces and nephews. Known for her lifelong love of dogs and her protective nature, she was a kind individual who cherished her grandchildren and brought joy to their lives. A burial service will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery on December 20, 2024, at 11 am.

Kathleen S. Gummere

Eve Brown

Eve Brown, born on February 22, 1947, in Sidney, Ohio, was a compassionate social worker and community leader who radiated warmth and generosity throughout her life. She served as the President and CEO of Trillium Family Solutions until her retirement in 2008 and was recognized as the 1992 Regional Social Worker of the Year. Eve was deeply committed to her family, including her husband James and their two sons, and enjoyed activities like knitting, cooking, and supporting OSU football. She actively participated in various community organizations, including Rotary International, and leaves behind a legacy of kindness and love. Eve passed away preceded by her parents, and her memorial service is planned for December 17, 2024.

Rosemary Ann Kimmet

Rosemary Ann Kimmet, 93, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on December 14, 2024. Born on July 31, 1931, in Bloomington, Indiana, she was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Kimmet, and daughter, Paula. She is survived by five children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and was known for her love of cooking, volleyball, and her signature phrase, "Whatcha cooking?" Friends and family are invited to calling hours on December 27, 2024, at Newcomer SW Chapel in Grove City. Rosemary will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Rosemary Ann Kimmet

Dietrich Louis Carter

The obituary is in the process of being updated and is not currently available. It advises readers to check back later for details. No specific information about the individual or events is provided at this time.

Franklin "Dean" Sigman

Franklin "Dean" Sigman, 91, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024. Born on April 22, 1933, in Cambridge, OH, he was the youngest of ten children and predeceased by his wife, June, and nine siblings. Dean is survived by his children, eight grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren, along with many extended family and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held on December 21, 2024, at the Pickerington American Legion Post #283. Contributions in Dean's memory can be made through flowers or tree planting.

Franklin Dean Sigman

Courtney Tomlyn Watson

Courtney Tomlyn Watson's obituary is currently unavailable. Friends and family are invited to share their thoughts and memories on the Memory Wall. Additionally, flowers can be sent to the family or a tree can be planted in Courtney's memory through the Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

Courtney Tomlyn Watson

Eugenia Lynn Stover

Eugenia L. Stover, 77, of Columbus, passed away on December 15, 2024, predeceased by her son, Brian Fairbanks, and her parents, David and Georgia Whaley. She is survived by her husband, Jasper Stover, daughter Kelly Harman and son-in-law Bruce, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are with Graumlich Funeral Home, and private services will be held. Online condolences can be left at www.graumlichfuneralhome.com.

Eugenia Lynn Stover

Quy Thi Pham

Quy Thi Pham, aged 89, passed away on December 13, 2024. Born on July 25, 1935, in Vietnam to Ton Pham and Giang Nguyen, Quy leaves behind a loving family and cherished friends who will deeply miss her.

Quy Thi Pham

Stephanie Michelle Arnold

Stephanie Michelle Arnold, 53, of Winchester, Tennessee, passed away on December 11, 2024, at Southern Tennessee Regional Health Systems. Born in Columbus, Ohio, on May 27, 1971, she worked as a log buyer for Thompson Appalachian Hardwood and was an active member of Winchester Methodist Church. Known for her crafting, cooking, and dedication to family, Stephanie will be remembered for her thoughtful gestures and caring nature. She is survived by her mother, father, three children, siblings, and numerous nieces and nephews, and a memorial gathering will be held on December 19, 2024.

Stephanie Michelle Arnold

Dr. John Stephens

Dr. John C. Stephens, 79, of Hilliard, OH, passed away on December 12, 2024. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Jerry Spears Funeral Home. Further details on his obituary will be provided later. The family welcomes floral tributes in his memory.

Dr. John Stephens

Charley Kirk

Charley Kirk, 76, of Breedan, WV, passed away on December 12, 2024, after a long illness. He was born on August 6, 1948, to Oscar and Nettie Kirk and is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, their daughter Dawnyell, two grandchildren, a great-grandchild, his sister Jean Barker, and a nephew. A graveside service will take place on December 19, 2024, at Glen Rest Memorial Estates in Reynoldsburg, OH. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family or to plant a tree in Charley's memory.

Charley Kirk

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

-Deuteronomy 31:6

← Previous
🏙 Nightlife shake-up
Next →
⛸ Ice and nightlife