Good morning, Franklin County. The thin blue line just got a little thinner in Columbus, as a police overtime scandal rocks the force to the tune of $29,000 in fraudulent claims. While one officer's career ends in disgrace, there's a silver lining emerging across our neighborhoods that might surprise the skeptics: Central Ohioans are embracing density like a long-lost friend, with widespread support for everything from backyard cottages to townhomes in traditionally single-family areas.
And speaking of embracing change, Columbus's food scene is about to get a lot more poppin' - literally. A new gourmet popcorn food truck is hitting the streets, promising combinations more creative than your Netflix viewing history. From glitter-dusted kernels to ranch-flavored delights, it's proof that sometimes the best innovations come in small, perfectly popped packages.
🌤 Sky Skoop | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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0%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🚔 Corrupt Ohio cop admits stealing $29,000 for overtime never worked. Former Columbus police officer Austin Przymierski pleaded guilty to theft after falsifying overtime hours between July and November 2022. Beyond the overtime scheme, he also used police gas cards to fuel his personal vehicles, racking up over $2,000 in unauthorized charges. While he has repaid the stolen funds, his guilty plea to the felony charge means he can never serve as a police officer again.
🏘️ Central Ohio residents overwhelmingly support denser housing in single-family neighborhoods. A new survey by the Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio reveals strong backing for "missing middle" housing types like duplexes and townhomes across all communities. The findings show majority support for changing zoning rules to allow denser housing on any residential lot, including backyard cottages and church-owned properties. Local officials are using these results to push for regional housing reforms, challenging traditional NIMBY voices that dominate neighborhood meetings. The survey's timing aligns with Columbus's first major zoning code update in decades, aimed at spurring more housing development.
🍿 Columbus food truck brings gourmet popcorn party to the streets. Munch Popcorn Bar, launching this month, lets customers create custom popcorn flavors with drizzles, toppings, and unique "flavor dustings" like glitter and ranch. Owner Michelle Johnson was inspired by her family's creative popcorn experiments at home, noting how the snack appeals to even picky eaters. The mobile concept will feature signature combinations like Muddy Buddy and Party Pop, while also popping up at local markets from May through October. Private event bookings will begin in April.
🏀 Basketball Scoreboard (Girls)
In a battle of struggling programs, Westland found their groove with a convincing 65-40 victory over Marion-Franklin, while Briggs steamrolled Mifflin 55-26 in Columbus area hoops action. The night's biggest surprise wasn't the scores but the fact that these teams combined for just 6 wins in 63 tries this season - making Monday's victors feel like championship material, if only for one night.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Briggs (11-10) | ||
@ Mifflin | W 55-26 | |
Beechcroft (7-12) | ||
@ Centerburg | L 68-33 | |
Independence (11-8) | ||
@ Westerville Central | L 48-13 | |
Mifflin (0-16) | ||
vs Briggs | L 55-26 | |
South (10-9) | ||
@ Columbus International | L 70-32 | |
Marion-Franklin (3-16) | ||
@ Westland | L 65-40 | |
Hilliard Bradley (10-9) | ||
vs Bishop Hartley | L 58-41 | |
Hilliard Davidson (3-17) | ||
vs Canal Winchester | L 40-39 | |
Westerville Central (11-8) | ||
vs Independence | W 48-13 | |
Canal Winchester (7-12) | ||
@ Hilliard Davidson | W 40-39 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Charming home with low maintenance: A charming free-standing home in the Village at Shannon Green is listed for $199,900. This easy-living property features three spacious bedrooms, 1.5 baths, and brand new carpet, with lawncare and snow removal included in the low HOA fee.
Stunning split with golf views: This stunning 5-level split, priced at $640,000, boasts a prime location on The Westchester Golf Course, featuring a dream kitchen, spacious owner's suite with golf course views, and a cozy den with built-ins. Enjoy the rec room for fun and a 3-car garage for ample parking.
Luxurious urban retreat with views: This luxurious 6th-floor condo in the Arena District is listed at $950,000 and features stunning river and stadium views, two updated bedrooms, and a bright, airy layout that feels spacious and inviting. With recent renovations and a prime location, it's a perfect low-maintenance urban retreat.