Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Franklin County / February 3, 2025

⛽ Gas prices shakeup

Franklin County • February 3, 2025

Good morning, Franklin County. Hold onto your wallets, folks - global trade tensions just hit closer to home than a neighbor's dispute over fence boundaries. With new tariffs sparking an international economic showdown, local drivers could soon face gas prices steeper than the hills of German Village. The move has Columbus residents bracing for impact on everything from their morning coffee runs to their weekly grocery hauls.

But amidst the economic turbulence, there's a heartwarming bright spot at the Golden Hobby Gift Shop, where senior artists are proving creativity knows no age limit. For 53 years, this local treasure has been more than just a store - it's a vibrant community where artists over 50 transform talent into friendship, one handcrafted masterpiece at a time. And with artisans keeping 80% of their sales, it's a rare win-win in today's retail landscape.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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💰 Trump's new tariffs spark immediate trade war with Canada and Mexico. The President signed an order imposing stiff tariffs on imports from Mexico (25%), Canada (25%), and China (10%), citing economic emergency. Energy experts warn the move could drive U.S. gas prices up by 70 cents per gallon, despite a lower 10% rate on Canadian energy imports. Local Columbus residents expressed concerns about affording basic necessities like fuel and groceries. Mexico and Canada swiftly announced retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, with Canada targeting up to $155 billion in imports.

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🎨 Senior artists find purpose and community at Columbus gift shop. The Golden Hobby Gift Shop, celebrating 53 years in business, exclusively showcases handcrafted items from creators aged 50 and older. The shop recently moved to the new Fran Ryan Center, offering everything from fine art to handmade doll clothes. Artists receive an unusually generous 80% of sales, far above typical retail commissions. Beyond sales, the shop serves as a vital social hub where senior artists can volunteer, create, and build lasting friendships.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Cozy home with inviting spaces: This cute and cozy home in Westerville is listed at $290,000. The inviting open living area leads to a kitchen with stainless steel appliances, while the oversized primary bedroom and covered patio add charm throughout.
Real estate listing image Inviting home with spacious layout: This well-maintained home, listed at $380,000, features three spa-like bathrooms and a spacious kitchen that flows into a bright, inviting open floor plan perfect for gatherings.
Real estate listing image Renovated home near Downtown Columbus: This beautifully renovated two-story home features 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, and an open concept kitchen with modern updates, all just minutes from Downtown Columbus at a list price of $275,000. Enjoy a fenced backyard, inviting front porch, and a detached two-car garage for ultimate convenience.
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