Good morning, Licking County. The digital future is taking physical shape across our landscape as data giant EdgeConnex makes a massive $137 million land purchase spanning 270 acres throughout the county. The Virginia-based company isn't wasting time either—construction on their "New Albany Energy Center" is slated to begin later this year, adding to their global portfolio of more than 80 data centers built since 2009.
While tech infrastructure expands, local culinary traditions are finding new life through Alex and Stephanie Athan's growing restaurant empire. Their Square Roots group has blossomed to four distinct eateries, including 1922 on the Square—operating in the same Newark location where Alex's grandfather ran the Natoma Restaurant for nearly nine decades. As residents rebuild after recent 70 mph winds tore through the area, bringing down trees and power lines, the community continues to demonstrate its resilience in the face of Mother Nature's occasional fury.
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88%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🏢 Data giant EdgeConnex drops $137M on massive Ohio land grab. The Virginia-based company purchased nearly 270 acres across multiple sites in Licking County, Ohio, including parcels in Johnstown and New Albany. EdgeConnex plans to develop a "New Albany Energy Center" on 48.6 acres that will use natural gas equipment to power an on-site data center, with construction starting later this year. The global data center provider, which builds custom facilities for clients, has already developed more than 80 data centers across multiple continents since its founding in 2009.
🍽️ The Athans are reviving Newark's restaurant scene with family legacy. Alex and Stephanie Athan have expanded their restaurant group, Square Roots, to four distinct eateries in Newark, Ohio. The flagship 1922 on the Square opened in March 2020 in the same location where Alex's grandfather ran the Natoma Restaurant for 88 years. Their portfolio now includes a steakhouse, Mexican restaurant, catering company, and casual eatery serving Chicago-inspired street food. The couple takes pride in continuing their family's tradition of investing in the community while creating dining destinations that blend modern appeal with hometown charm.
🌪️ Violent winds up to 70 mph rip through Ohio communities. Licking County residents are cleaning up after powerful storms caused significant damage to homes and power lines. Justin Dowis described a tree smashing into his father's house, while other residents like Jon and Tina May watched crews restore downed power lines. Some residents reported not hearing tornado sirens, as officials explained they now use a targeted approach to warnings rather than county-wide alerts. Despite preparation efforts, resident Jon May admitted, "You feel very unprepared when it does happen."
🥎 Softball Scoreboard
Licking Heights brought the sting in Tuesday's league matchup, blanking Newark Catholic 10-0 in a dominant shutout performance. The Hornets (3-3) buzzed through the Green Wave's defense with ruthless efficiency, giving their fans in Pataskala something to cheer about before they prepare for their upcoming clash with Heath.Meanwhile, Heath finally found the win column, crushing Zanesville 14-0 to improve to 1-4 on the season. The Bulldogs unleashed an offensive avalanche against the still-winless Blue Devils (0-5), giving them a much-needed confidence boost heading into Wednesday's showdown with Licking Heights.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Newark Catholic (3-4) | ||
@ Licking Heights | L 10-0 | |
Licking Heights (3-3) | ||
vs Newark Catholic | W 10-0 | |
Watkins Memorial (5-1) | ||
@ Lincoln | W 14-9 | |
Heath (1-4) | ||
@ Zanesville | W 14-0 |
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Affordable Park Home Awaits Approval: Priced at $95,444, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath home in Ramp Creek offers an open layout, updated features, and convenient location. Buyer must be approved by the park.
Auction freebie needs work: This foreclosure property is free (list price: $0), but caveat emptor—it's being sold "as is" through an auction process. The buyer must accept full responsibility for the property's condition and potential occupancy issues.
Lakeside cottage needs updates: This charming lakeside cottage at Cranberry Bay is listed for $379,900, featuring a covered boat dock, main-floor living spaces, upstairs bunk room, deck with gazebo, and ample storage—all waiting for your personal updates.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
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