🎶 Legacy in the mix

Good morning, Franklin County. In the pulsing heart of Columbus's electronic music scene, a gentle giant with blue hair once stood 6'4" tall, weaving soundscapes that moved both bodies and souls. Marshall Hackworth wasn't just a DJ; he was a cultural cornerstone who helped build our city's vibrant music community. Now, as Rich Street Records prepares to host a celebration of his life, his legacy beats on through the very scene he helped create.

Speaking of local legends making waves, Central Ohio's remodeling titans are building impressive numbers of their own. With APCO Industries leading the charge at $17.5 million in sales, and Dublin Scioto High School's marching band earning national acclaim for their Metallica covers, Franklin County is proving that whether it's house renovations or heavy metal, we know how to bring down the house.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Columbus

22°

33°

81%

Dublin

21°

32°

89%

Gahanna

22°

33°

62%

Hilliard

21°

32°

67%

Reynoldsburg

22°

33°

62%

Grove City

22°

33°

81%

Westerville

21°

32°

89%

Upper Arlington

22°

33°

63%

Worthington

21°

32°

89%

Whitehall

22°

33°

62%

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🎵 Columbus rave scene mourns beloved DJ Marshall Hackworth with tribute event. The towering 6'4" figure with blue hair was a legendary presence in the local electronic music community, known for running immersive shows with binaural sounds and light displays. As a founding member of Digital Coalition in the late 90s, Hackworth helped nurture emerging DJ talent and hosted influential monthly events at Cafe Bourbon Street. The celebration of his life will take place at Rich Street Records on January 3, 2025, featuring free admission and BYOB policy. The family-friendly event will include live DJs, record shopping, and a suggested $5 donation to support local artists.

🏠 Columbus remodeling giants post impressive sales, APCO Industries leads pack. The top five residential remodeling companies in Central Ohio collectively generated over $64 million in sales volume for 2024, with APCO Industries claiming the top spot at $17.5 million. Family-owned APCO Industries, founded in 1962, maintains its market leadership with 45 Central Ohio employees. Behal Sampson Dietz made a remarkable jump from seventh place to secure the second position with nearly $13 million in sales. The data, compiled by Columbus Business First through company questionnaires, showcases the robust health of Central Ohio's home renovation market despite economic uncertainties.

🎸 Ohio high school band rocks Metallica competition as national finalist. Dublin Scioto High School's marching band earned a coveted spot among 14 finalists in Metallica's second annual nationwide competition. The band performed powerful renditions of three classic Metallica hits, including "Enter Sandman" and "For Whom the Bell Tolls," at Ohio Stadium. As the only Ohio school to make the finals, they're competing for $20,000 and music equipment prizes. The competition's voting period concluded December 31, with winners to be announced across multiple divisions.

Team	Opponent	Date/Time
Beechcroft Cougars
	vs Utica	1/3 @ 6:00pm
	@ Columbus International	1/7 @ 6:00pm
Briggs Bruins
	vs Marion-Franklin	1/7 @ 7:00pm
Centennial Stars
	@ Whetstone	1/7 @ Time TBA
East Tigers
	vs Horizon Science Academy	1/6 @ 6:00pm
	vs Northland	1/7 @ 6:00pm
Independence 76ers
	@ Linden-McKinley	1/3 @ 6:00pm
	vs Walnut Ridge	1/7 @ 6:00pm
Linden-McKinley Panthers
	vs Independence	1/3 @ 6:00pm
	@ Mifflin	1/7 @ 6:00pm
Mifflin Punchers
	vs Linden-McKinley	1/7 @ 6:00pm
Marion-Franklin Red Devils
	@ Briggs	1/7 @ 7:00pm
Northland Vikings
	@ South**	1/4 @ 12:00pm
	@ East	1/7 @ 6:00pm
South Bulldogs
	vs Northland**	1/4 @ 12:00pm
	vs Africentric Early College	1/7 @ 7:00pm
	@ Columbus International	1/8 @ 6:00pm
Walnut Ridge Scots
	@ Independence	1/7 @ 6:00pm
West Cowboys
	@ Whetstone	1/3 @ 6:00pm
	@ Eastmoor Academy	1/7 @ 7:00pm
Whetstone Braves
	vs West	1/3 @ 6:00pm
	vs Centennial	1/7 @ Time TBA
	vs Hamilton Township	1/9 @ 7:00pm
Africentric Early College Nubians
	@ South	1/7 @ 7:00pm
Thomas Worthington CARDINALS
	vs Groveport-Madison	1/3 @ 6:00pm
	@ Eastmoor Academy	1/6 @ 7:30pm
Worthington Kilbourne Wolves
	vs Bishop Ready	1/3 @ 7:00pm
	vs Fairbanks	1/7 @ 7:00pm
Hilliard Bradley Jaguars
	vs Hilliard Darby	1/3 @ 2:30pm
	@ Springfield	1/6 @ 7:30pm
Hilliard Davidson Wildcats
	vs Dublin Scioto	1/4 @ 3:00pm
	@ Central Crossing	1/7 @ 7:00pm
Hilliard Darby Panthers
	@ Hilliard Bradley	1/3 @ 2:30pm
	@ Westerville Central	1/7 @ 7:00pm
Dublin Coffman Shamrocks
	vs Granville	1/3 @ 2:30pm
	@ Grove City	1/4 @ 2:30pm
Dublin Scioto Irish
	@ Hilliard Davidson	1/4 @ 3:00pm
	@ Olentangy Orange	1/7 @ 7:00pm
Lincoln Lions
	@ Groveport-Madison**	1/4 @ 6:00pm
Dublin Jerome Celtics
	@ New Albany	1/3 @ 7:30pm
	@ Newark	1/7 @ 7:30pm
Westerville Central Warhawks
	vs Westerville North	1/4 @ 12:30pm
	vs Hilliard Darby	1/7 @ 7:00pm
Westerville North Warriors
	@ Westerville Central	1/4 @ 12:30pm
	vs Pickerington North	1/7 @ 7:00pm
Westerville South Wildcats
	vs New Albany	1/7 @ 7:30pm
Franklin Heights Falcons
	vs Bishop Ready	1/4 @ 7:00pm
	vs Whitehall-Yearling	1/7 @ 7:30pm
New Albany Eagles
	vs Dublin Jerome	1/3 @ 7:30pm
	@ Westerville South	1/7 @ 7:30pm
Bexley Lions
	vs Grandview Heights	1/4 @ 7:30pm
	vs Worthington Christian	1/7 @ 7:30pm
Grandview Heights Bobcats
	@ Northridge	1/3 @ 6:00pm
	@ Bexley	1/4 @ 7:30pm
	vs Buckeye Valley	1/7 @ 7:00pm
Whitehall-Yearling Rams
	@ Franklin Heights	1/7 @ 7:30pm
Canal Winchester Indians
	@ Olentangy Liberty	1/7 @ 7:30pm
Graham Local Falcons
	@ North Union	1/4 @ 7:30pm
	@ Miami East	1/6 @ 7:30pm
	vs Tecumseh	1/8 @ 7:30pm
Grove City Greyhounds
	@ Upper Arlington	1/3 @ 6:00pm
	vs Dublin Coffman	1/4 @ 2:30pm
	vs Teays Valley	1/7 @ 7:30pm
Central Crossing Comets
	vs Heath	1/4 @ 7:00pm
	vs Hilliard Davidson	1/7 @ 7:00pm

🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Cozy family home with upgrades

This charming 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home is listed at $249,900 and features a welcoming open-concept living space with new carpet, a modern kitchen with a stylish tile backsplash, and various upgrades. The layout includes three spacious bedrooms upstairs, while the lower level offers a cozy family room with a wood-burning stove and a reading nook, providing ample space for relaxation and entertaining.

Ranch home with spacious outdoor entertaining

This charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch in desirable Upper Arlington is listed at $450,000 and features custom cabinetry and granite countertops in the kitchen, along with elegant tile finishes in the first-floor bathroom. The finished basement adds extra living space with a full bathroom, while the large deck, covered patio, and spacious yard provide fantastic options for outdoor entertaining, all conveniently located near top-rated schools, shopping, and parks.

Stylish ranch with spacious potential

This eye-catching ranch home, listed at $329,900, boasts four bedrooms, including a primary suite, and two full bathrooms. Recently remodeled, the space features wood flooring, a stylish kitchen with granite countertops and new appliances, plus a full basement with endless potential, all nestled on a cozy corner lot with a fenced backyard and relaxing front porch.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎤 Jan. 05 - Karaoke with Ace: Grab the mic and unleash your inner rockstar at Eldorado's Bar Food & Spirits! Join host Ace for a night of karaoke fun on January 5th at this lively Columbus hotspot.

⛸️ Jan. 05 - Adult Sunday Skate: Roll into the weekend at Skate Zone 71's Sunday Adult Skating session! Lace up your skates and join fellow grown-ups for some wheeled fun at 4900 Evanswood Dr in Columbus.

✊ Jan. 05 - MLK Dream Run: Honor Dr. King's legacy at this inspiring MLK Day race in Columbus! Choose your distance (1M to 26.2) at Fund The Home Less on Watermark Drive. Just $18 for early registration.

🧘 Jan. 06 - Yoga Basics for Beginners: Start your yoga journey with confidence at GIVE Yoga's beginner-friendly series! Master essential poses and breathing techniques in a welcoming Columbus studio at 3520 N High St, starting January 6.

🧁 Jan. 07 - Nothing Bundt Cakes Pairings: Satisfy your sweet tooth at Savor Pint's Nothing Bundt Cakes pairing event! Join fellow dessert lovers on January 7th at 4440 Indianola Ave for a delightful evening of cake and drink pairings.

🎸 Jan. 10 - The Vindys Live: Rock out with The Vindys as they bring their electrifying Black Keys-inspired alt-rock to The Athenaeum Theatre on January 10. Join rising star Whitley Jean for an unforgettable night of Northeast Ohio's finest.

🎸 Jan. 10 - X-Cops Rock The Bar: Get ready to rock with X-Cops, Belushi Speed Ball, U.S. Bastards, and The Whiteouts for an explosive night of high-energy punk at A&R Music Bar on January 10. Doors at 7pm.

🎸 Jan. 10 - Apes of the State: Get ready to stomp and holler as folk punk favorites Apes of the State bring their unapologetic sound to Skully's Music-Diner on January 10. These Lancaster, PA rebels know how to shake up a Wednesday night.

🦢 Jan. 12 - Silly Goose Live: Get ready to rock with Silly Goose as they take over Ace of Cups for a high-energy evening of live music. Catch them at 2619 N High St, Columbus on January 12 at 6:00 PM.

💰 Financial Friday

Explore the benefits of budgeting through the 50/30/20 rule, which suggests allocating 50% of your income to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings or debt repayment; this method can help you strike a balance between enjoying life today while also planning for a secure financial future.

🙏 In Remembrance

Arick Lee Milby

Arick L. Milby, 63, of Grove City, Ohio, passed away on December 26, 2024. Born on January 11, 1961, he was a beloved father, husband, and grandfather, known for his big heart and vibrant personality. A graduate of Columbus West High School, Rick enjoyed various activities such as fishing, golfing, and supporting his favorite sports teams, the Ohio State Buckeyes and Cleveland Browns. He is survived by his daughters, Christina, Ashley, and Mackenzie, along with several siblings and many relatives and friends. Services will be held on January 3, 2025, at O.R. Woodyard Co. Funeral Home, followed by burial at Grove City Cemetery.

Julian D. Miller

Julian "Num" Miller, 23, passed away on December 22, 2024. Born on February 15, 2001, he was a Hamilton Township graduate who loved motorcycle riding, animals, and spending time with family. He is survived by his parents, siblings, girlfriend Judrianna, daughter Juliani, and extended family, and he was preceded in death by his grandparents and aunts. Friends and family are invited to a viewing on January 4, 2025, followed by a service and repass at Summit Baptist Church in Pataskala, OH.

Jaivon M. Miller

Jaivon Miller, 22, of Columbus, OH, passed away on December 22, 2024. A Licking Heights graduate born on November 26, 2002, he had a deep love for animals, fast cars, and enjoyed basketball and family time. He is preceded in death by his grandparents and aunts, and is survived by his parents, siblings, and numerous relatives. A service will be held on January 4, 2025, followed by a repass at Summit Baptist Church in Pataskala, OH.

Shelley Smith

Shelley Smith, 81, of Westerville, Ohio, passed away on December 28, 2024. Details regarding the full obituary and services are forthcoming. Messages of condolence can be left on his tribute page, and flowers or trees can be sent in his memory through the floral store.

Veronica Neal

Veronica Neal passed away on December 30, 2024, in Columbus, OH, leaving behind many family and friends who will greatly miss her. The Neal family may provide additional details to the obituary in the future. In her memory, flowers can be sent or a tree can be planted through the provided floral store link. Thank you for visiting this tribute.

Maxine Kass

Maxine, born on January 13, 1946, passed away on December 31, 2024, at the age of 78. Throughout her life, she was known for her warmth and kindness, leaving a lasting impact on those around her. She is remembered fondly by family and friends for her vibrant spirit and loving nature. Maxine's legacy will continue through the memories she created with her loved ones.

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

-Matthew 11:28

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