Good morning, Franklin County. Art and politics are colliding in Columbus as The Contemporary Theatre's promised $10,000 federal grant for "Fat Ham" hangs in limbo due to recent executive orders targeting DEI initiatives. The modern Black queer retelling of "Hamlet" opened Saturday despite the financial uncertainty, with Executive Director Christy Farnbauch standing firm: "If we don't do it at the professional level, no one else will." The show must go on, even when the funding might not.
From stage productions to steel beams, the construction industry is facing its own drama as developers warn that new tariffs are driving up costs and threatening housing projects across Columbus. While these economic headwinds swirl, there's still time for lighter fare – NBC4 viewers can cast their votes for favorite local TV personalities in the annual ColumBEST rankings, with six familiar faces vying for the hometown crown.
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0%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🎭 Federal grant for queer theater production hangs in the balance. The Contemporary Theatre of Ohio may never receive a promised $10,000 NEA grant for their production of "Fat Ham" due to President Trump's executive orders targeting DEI and "gender ideology." The Columbus theater company has been locked out of the funding portal with minimal communication from the government about the grant's status. "Fat Ham," which features a Black queer man as its main character in a modern retelling of "Hamlet," opened Saturday despite the financial uncertainty. Despite the potential financial hit, Executive Director Christy Farnbauch affirms they'll continue producing inclusive shows: "If we don't do it at the professional level, no one else will."
🏗️ Trump's tariffs threaten Columbus development projects.Local developers are warning that Trump's recent tariffs on Chinese imports, steel, and aluminum are driving up construction costs and jeopardizing new housing developments. At a recent Downtown Commission meeting, multiple applicants cited economic difficulties and tariff concerns threatening their projects. Beyond tariffs, Trump's opposition to the CHIPS Act and layoffs at HUD have created an atmosphere of uncertainty. Affordable housing projects are particularly vulnerable, with experts urging support for tax credit programs and local zoning reforms to mitigate impacts they can't control at the federal level.
📺 Vote now for your favorite NBC4 personalities in ColumBEST rankings. 614 Media Group is asking readers to choose the best in Columbus, including "best local TV personality" where six NBC4 anchors and meteorologists are nominated. The nominees include Colleen Marshall, Kerry Charles, Monica Day, Matt Barnes, Jennifer Bullock, and Dave Mazza. Voters can also write in their own choices. To participate, readers need to follow a link and enter their email address to access the voting page under the People and Community section.
🏒 Hockey Scoreboard
Upper Arlington skated past St. Ignatius 5-2 in Sunday's non-league showdown, proving the Golden Bears have plenty of bite on the ice. The visitors from Columbus showed no fear in Cleveland's den, handing the Wildcats a rare home defeat. Mark this down as another statement win for Upper Arlington as they continue their impressive campaign.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Upper Arlington (29-6-2) | ||
vs St. Ignatius* | W 5-2 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
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Investor Duplex Needs Sale Approval: This duplex at $82,900 requires short sale approval and offers four bedrooms and one bathroom on each side—an affordable opportunity for investors seeking income-generating property.
Cozy home great outdoors value: For $150,000, this welcoming 2-bedroom home features two dining areas and a spacious fenced backyard, creating a versatile living space that balances indoor comfort with private outdoor enjoyment.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
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