🎭 The Short North is drowning in festival overload. Longtime resident David Hunegnaw argues that Columbus's vibrant arts district has become overwhelmed by events that have no connection to the neighborhood's character. He distinguishes between authentic celebrations like Pride and Doo Dah that reflect the district's identity versus commercial festivals that merely extract value from the area's cultural cachet. Hunegnaw calls for more intentional curation of events that align with the neighborhood's spirit rather than saying yes to every proposal. His plea emphasizes protecting what makes the Short North special instead of diluting its unique character for tourism dollars.
Read more
🐼 Giant pandas captivated Columbus Zoo visitors after years of diplomatic wrangling. In summer 1992, three-year-old pandas Xing Xing and Qin Qin arrived from China for a four-month exhibit that drew nearly a million visitors. Zoo Director Jack Hanna and political allies had spent eight years navigating complex negotiations with Chinese officials to secure the loan. Despite facing opposition from wildlife organizations and temporarily losing accreditation, the Columbus Zoo persevered, ultimately donating $300,000 to panda conservation efforts in China.
Read more
📚 Friends of the Library gift $51,000 to supercharge summer reading. The Delaware County District Library received its largest-ever donation from the Friends organization, fully funding the 2025 Summer Reading Club including prizes and programming. The library board also approved a supplemental budget allocating $750,000 for additional staff to extend operating hours by fall 2025—fulfilling a key levy promise. Job fairs will be held in June to fill 26 new positions across multiple branches. The board also addressed trustee vacancies and approved a salary increase for the library director to $152,533.
Read more
87%
Updated spacious acreage under 400k: This beautifully updated 3-bed, 2-bath home on 1.25 acres is listed at $369,000, featuring new kitchen island, granite counters, flooring, and a lovely backyard with upper deck and stamped concrete patio.
Remodeled gem with tax benefits: Priced at $281,500, this remodeled character home features gorgeous woodwork, granite kitchen, new baths, and finished attic in a prime location with a 10-year tax abatement opportunity.
Bank Owned Auction Deal: This $0 bank-owned property is available for auction on Auction.com, a platform that connects buyers with nationwide real estate deals through their user-friendly bidding system.