Good morning, Franklin County. As winter tightens its grip on Central Ohio, local cafes are transforming that childhood classic – hot chocolate – into something extraordinary. From Freedom a la Cart's campfire-inspired creation (complete with tiny Teddy Graham companions) to Pistacia Vera's luxurious Valrhona version, Columbus is proving that comfort in a cup can be both nostalgic and innovative.
Meanwhile, COSI is turning winter break cabin fever into scientific wonder with their Season of Celebrations, where T. rex meets PAW Patrol and holiday magic meets hands-on learning. And for those venturing out in Union County, there's good news on the horizon – that tricky Bear Swamp Road rail crossing is getting a $634,000 safety makeover. Consider it an early holiday gift from the infrastructure Santa.
🌤 Sky Skoop | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
87% ☕️ What's Brewing Locally
☕️ Columbus cafes transform hot chocolate into winter wonderland of flavors. Six local spots are reinventing the classic winter drink with creative twists, from campfire-inspired s'mores versions to authentic Mexican spiced cocoa. Freedom a la Cart's Bonfire Hot Cocoa comes topped with Teddy Grahams and supports human trafficking survivors, while Pistacia Vera elevates the experience with premium Valrhona chocolate. For those seeking something different, Winans offers a frozen variation perfect for year-round sipping, while Fox in the Snow's peppermint version has become a seasonal favorite.
🔬 COSI transforms holiday breaks into scientific wonderlands for families. The Columbus science center's Season of Celebrations combines festive displays with hands-on learning experiences, from nostalgic Progress exhibits to community-decorated forest displays. Visitors can explore permanent attractions like the Planetarium and Ocean exhibits, while special features include the PAW Patrol exhibition for little ones and the limited-time T. rex showcase. The center offers age-appropriate activities for everyone, from toddler-focused LittleKidspace to advanced engineering challenges for older participants. From interactive demonstrations to holiday-themed exhibits, COSI delivers an engaging blend of education and entertainment that makes it the perfect destination for family adventures during school breaks.
🚂 Union County rail crossing gets $634,000 safety upgrade makeover. The Bear Swamp Road crossing will be equipped with new flashing lights and gates by December 2025, funded entirely through federal dollars. The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) approved the project as part of its ongoing efforts to improve rail crossing safety across the state. The initiative has proven highly effective, with train-vehicle crashes in Ohio plummeting from 356 in 1990 to just 77 in 2023. Local governments can also apply for up to $5,000 in additional state funding for enhanced safety features like rumble strips and improved signage.
🏀 Basketball Schedule Slam (Girls)
| Team | Opponent | Date/Time |
|---|---|---|
 Briggs Bruins | ||
| vs Patriot Prep Academy** | 12/27 @ 7:30pm | |
 Beechcroft Cougars | ||
| vs DePaul Cristo Rey | 12/27 @ 11:30am | |
| Centennial Stars | ||
| @ Westerville North | 12/30 @ 5:30pm | |
 Linden-McKinley Panthers | ||
| @ Millersport | 12/28 @ 12:00pm | |
| @ Heath | 12/30 @ 1:15pm | |
 Marion-Franklin Red Devils | ||
| @ Groveport-Madison | 12/28 @ 2:30pm | |
 West Cowboys | ||
| vs SSA | 12/27 @ 11:00am | |
 Walnut Ridge Scots | ||
| vs Meadowdale | 12/27 @ 4:00pm | |
| vs Colerain | 12/28 @ 4:00pm | |
 Africentric Early College Nubians | ||
| vs Wayne | 12/28 @ 4:00pm | |
 Thomas Worthington CARDINALS | ||
| @ Westerville Central | 12/28 @ 1:00pm | |
 Worthington Kilbourne Wolves | ||
| @ Olentangy Orange | 12/30 @ 7:00pm | |
 Hilliard Davidson Wildcats | ||
| vs Trinity | 12/27 @ 3:00pm | |
| @ GlenOak | 12/28 @ 5:00pm | |
 Hilliard Bradley Jaguars | ||
| vs St. Francis DeSales** | 12/28 @ 12:00pm | |
 Dublin Coffman Shamrocks | ||
| @ Lincoln | 12/30 @ 3:00pm | |
 Dublin Jerome Celtics | ||
| @ Dublin Scioto | 12/30 @ 6:00pm | |
 Dublin Scioto Irish | ||
| vs Dublin Jerome | 12/30 @ 6:00pm | |
 Westerville Central Warhawks | ||
| vs Thomas Worthington | 12/28 @ 1:00pm | |
| @ Jonathan Alder | 12/30 @ 7:30pm | |
 Lincoln Lions | ||
| vs Dublin Coffman | 12/30 @ 3:00pm | |
 Westerville North Warriors | ||
| vs Centennial | 12/30 @ 5:30pm | |
 Central Crossing Comets | ||
| vs Jonathan Alder | 12/28 @ 7:00pm | |
 Franklin Heights Falcons | ||
| @ Bishop Rosecrans | 12/27 @ 5:00pm | |
 Bexley Lions | ||
| @ Bishop Watterson | 12/30 @ 2:00pm | |
 Canal Winchester Indians | ||
| @ Olentangy | 12/28 @ 6:00pm | |
| @ Worthington Christian | 12/31 @ 2:30pm | |
 Graham Local Falcons | ||
| vs Ponitz Career Tech | 12/30 @ 7:30pm |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Spacious home with renovation potential
Opportunity awaits with this spacious four-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bathroom two-story home listed at $279,900, ideal for both flipping and owner-occupancy. The solid property features a fully accessible first-floor primary suite, an expansive open floor plan, and a large fenced yard with a deck, all positioned against a scenic tree line, making it a promising candidate for anyone looking to add value through some renovation work.
This charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath ranch is listed at $205,000 and sits on a spacious .65-acre lot, offering a serene country setting while still being close to city amenities. With fresh paint, an updated kitchen and bath, and features like a cozy fireplace and fenced-in backyard, this move-in-ready home is perfect for those seeking comfort and convenience.
Unique home with spacious layout
Listed at $294,900, this charming one-owner home in the Hamilton Local Schools district comes with Columbus taxes and boasts a unique floorplan. With a spacious living room flowing into the kitchen, a master suite separated from two additional bedrooms, and a lovely deck overlooking a fenced .30-acre yard, this property also features a family room on the lower level, a two-car garage, and various updates including newer windows and appliances.
🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
💰 Financial Friday
Think about automating your savings by setting up a regular transfer from your checking account to your savings account each payday, making it easier to grow your nest egg without even thinking about it. This way, you can watch your savings flourish while focusing on enjoying life.
🙏 In Remembrance
| ||
| ||
|
🍞 Daily Bread Crumb
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.
-Philippians 4:6