Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Franklin County / January 24, 2025

💼 Cubicle Revival

Franklin County • January 24, 2025

Good morning, Franklin County. In a plot twist that feels straight out of "Office Space," AEP Ohio is calling 2,400 workers back to their cubicles full-time, joining the growing chorus of corporate giants hitting the "undo" button on remote work. The utility giant's $54 billion infrastructure plans apparently require more face time than Zoom can handle, marking another shift in the ever-evolving workplace saga.

Meanwhile, our local hospitals are playing talent tug-of-war with Amazon, responding with a whopping $120 million investment in healthcare education. And in a darker turn, federal authorities just broke up an alleged dog fighting ring, rescuing 11 dogs and reminding us that while some battles are fought in boardrooms and hiring halls, others are fought to protect our four-legged friends from cruelty.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🏢 AEP Ohio orders 2,400 workers back to office full-time. The Columbus-based utility company announced employees must return to in-person work five days a week starting June 1, ending their current hybrid schedule. The mandate follows similar moves by other major employers like JPMorgan Chase and Amazon, reflecting a broader corporate shift away from remote work. AEP cited the benefits of face-to-face interactions and their upcoming $54 billion infrastructure investment as key reasons for the change. Only employees specifically hired for remote roles or those living far from offices will be exempt from the new policy.

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🐕 Columbus man charged after 11 dogs rescued from suspected fighting ring. Federal authorities arrested 37-year-old Joel Brown on 13 charges, including possession of dogs for fighting purposes, drug possession, and illegal firearm possession. Law enforcement and Columbus Humane rescued the pit bull-type dogs while recovering dog fighting equipment during a joint operation. Investigators also found Brown, a convicted felon, in possession of a shotgun and 50 grams of methamphetamine. If convicted on all charges, Brown faces up to 110 years in prison, with the drug charge alone carrying a maximum 40-year sentence.

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🏥 Columbus hospitals battle Amazon for workers in fierce talent war. Four major Columbus hospital systems are joining forces to address critical healthcare worker shortages, anchored by OhioHealth's record $25 million gift to Columbus State Community College. The investment is part of a larger $120 million initiative to double healthcare graduate output to 3,000 students annually in fields like nursing and medical imaging. Hospital CEOs emphasize they're not just competing with each other, but with major employers like Amazon for talent. Despite the workforce challenges, all four Columbus hospital systems reported record revenues and positive bottom lines in fiscal 2024, enabling continued investment in workforce development.

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🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎨 Jan. 24 - Creative Kids Art Time: Let young artists shine at Art Fun with Ms. Shonda! Kids explore their creative potential in a supportive, noncompetitive environment at Whetstone Community Center on January 24. Leisure Card required from Front Desk.

💰 Financial Friday

Keep an eye on your credit score by checking it regularly; understanding what affects your score can empower you to make better financial decisions, ultimately leading to lower interest rates on loans and credit.

🙏 In Remembrance

William Lenard PresnellWilliam Lenard Presnell

William Lenard Pressnell, 88, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025, surrounded by family. Born in Tazewell, Tennessee, on March 31, 1936, he was the sixth of eleven children and worked as a warehouse manager, most notably at Ohio Distribution Warehouse for 21 years. Lenard is survived by his four children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and beloved siblings, along with many cherished friends and relatives. He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Nancy, and several family members. An avid Ohio State Buckeyes and Cincinnati Reds fan, Lenard cherished his family and loved spending time with them, as well as fishing and bowling.

William Lenard PresnellWilliam Lenard Presnell

Larry J. Amato

Larry J. Amato, 84, of Powell, passed away on January 7, 2025, at Dublin Methodist Hospital. Born on March 19, 1940, in Marion, Ohio, he is survived by his wife, Paula, stepdaughters, grandchildren, and a close friend, among others. Larry served in the U.S. Navy and had a long career with Conrail Railroad. In retirement, he enjoyed collecting Lionel trains, golfing, and making homemade ice cream. A Funeral Mass will be held on January 29, 2025, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Delaware.

Larry J. Amato

Aleila M. KelsoAleila M. Kelso

Aleila M. Kelso, 71, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away on January 16, 2025. A dedicated driver for Mayne Transportation, she was known for her love of Cadillacs and her passion for helping others. Aleila is preceded in death by her father, John H. Kelso, and is survived by her son Robert Moody Jr., numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and her brother Elris L. Kelso. Private arrangements are being handled by COOK & SON - PALLAY FUNERAL HOME, with inurnment at Evergreen Cemetery.

Aleila M. KelsoAleila M. Kelso

Irene Emogene RoseIrene Emogene Rose

Irene Emogene Rose, 86, passed away peacefully at home on January 20, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born on May 28, 1938, in Majestic, Kentucky, she was a dedicated employee of Caskey Cleaners and is preceded in death by her husband Jerry and son Randal. Irene is survived by her daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brothers, sister-in-law, and many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held on January 27, 2025, with services on January 28 at O.R. Woodyard Co. South High St. Chapel, followed by interment at Obetz Cemetery.

Irene Emogene RoseIrene Emogene Rose

Dorothy McKenzieDorothy McKenzie

Dorothy Mae McKenzie, age 90, passed away on January 21, 2025, at Riverside Methodist Hospital. A dedicated homemaker who cherished her family, she enjoyed playing cards and cooking. Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, two husbands, a son, a great-grandson, and several siblings. She is survived by three sons, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and other family members. Friends are invited to a visitation and service at Jerry Spears Funeral Home on January 27, 2025.

Dorothy McKenzieDorothy McKenzie

Destiny Desiree EllisDestiny Desiree Ellis

This obituary is in the process of being updated. Details about the individual's life and contributions will be provided soon. Please check back later for the full obituary.

Destiny Desiree EllisDestiny Desiree Ellis

Stephan Lee EvansStephan Lee Evans

Steve Evans, 64, passed away peacefully at home on January 21, 2025, surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife Donna, their three children, five grandchildren, and mother-in-law Charlotte, as well as many friends and family. Steve was preceded in death by his father Ron, mother Ann, and brother Ronnie. He cherished life, enjoyed outdoor activities, and had a passion for Ohio State football. In accordance with his wishes, there will be no service, but a celebration of life is planned for a later date.

Stephan Lee EvansStephan Lee Evans

Pastor Johnny L Griffin Jr.Pastor Johnny L Griffin Jr.

Pastor Johnny Lewis Griffin, Jr. was born on December 2, 1937, in Williamson, West Virginia, and passed away on December 14, 2024. He was a talented musician, composer, and dedicated pastor who founded P.A.T.H. Ministries and served as its leader until his death. Griffin had a fulfilling career, working as a studio musician and later in inhalation therapy at Mount Carmel West Hospital before starting his own janitorial service. He is survived by his wife Janice, three children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and many spiritual mentees. Known for his loving nature and strong work ethic, he made a lasting impact on his community through music, ministry, and prayer.

Pastor Johnny L Griffin Jr.Pastor Johnny L Griffin Jr.

Harold "Butch" WooleverHarold "Butch" Woolever

Harold "Butch" Fredrick Woolever, 68, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on January 21, 2025. Born on February 25, 1956, he was known for his vibrant personality and ability to connect with others. Butch loved spending time with his grandchildren and was passionate about fishing, hunting, golfing, and Ohio sports. He is survived by his wife, Tammy, three children, a sister, a brother, and several grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and other family members, with visitation planned for January 30, 2025.

Harold Butch WooleverHarold Butch Woolever

Priscilla WhitePriscilla White

Priscilla White, 82, of Bluefield, West Virginia, passed away on January 17, 2025. She is survived by her husband, Robert Q. White, and her sister, Betty Rich, along with her daughters, step-daughter, grandchildren, and extended family. Priscilla was a dedicated educator with 30 years of teaching experience in the Columbus City Public School system and a longtime member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. She was predeceased by her son, Robert Gregory White, and her sister, Violet Yvonne Jackson. Priscilla cherished her family, especially her grandchildren, and will be remembered by many friends and relatives.

Priscilla WhitePriscilla White

Mary Marie SellersMary Marie Sellers

Mary Marie Sellers, born on August 27, 1928, in Galena, Ohio, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2025. A devoted matriarch and proud bank teller, she worked until the age of 79 and was deeply committed to her family, especially her grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. Mary is survived by her four children, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a cherished sister, Joyce. Preceded in death by her husband Burl and several family members, her life will be celebrated on February 1, 2025, at Northgate Church. Mary's legacy of love and strength will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Byron Lee Schmidt

Byron Lee Schmidt, 73, of Grove City, Ohio, passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 26, 2024. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 15, 1951, he graduated from Southeast High School and attended Yale University on a basketball scholarship, earning a degree in American Studies. Byron had a successful career running Bed & Breakfast Inns in New England and eventually owned a real estate and construction business in Connecticut. Known for his kindness and generosity, he is survived by his two brothers, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date, and memorial contributions can be made to the Grove City Area Meals on Wheels.

Mildred KeenMildred Keen

Mildred Keen, 84, passed away on January 20, 2025, at Grant Medical Center. She dedicated over 20 years to working at Piketon Lanes Bowling Alley and enjoyed cooking, watching TV, and spending quality time with her family, especially her sister Dorthy. Mildred was preceded in death by her parents, son, multiple siblings, and other family members. She is survived by her daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Private arrangements are being managed by Cook & Son - Pallay Funeral Home.

Mildred KeenMildred Keen

Charmell AbbingtonCharmell Abbington

An obituary for Charmell Abbington is currently not available. The family encourages sharing thoughts and memories on the Tribute Wall. Flowers can be sent to the family or a tree can be planted in her memory through the floral store.

Charmell AbbingtonCharmell Abbington

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.

-Proverbs 17:17

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