🏥 Stroke care champions

Good morning, Marion County. The battle against West Nile virus has intensified with 120 positive mosquito pools detected in nearby Franklin County this year. Worthington is taking swift action with Thursday morning spraying operations, while officials recommend residents stay indoors during treatment times. This proactive approach comes as Ohio has already confirmed one human case among 194 positive mosquito pools across 17 counties—a sobering reminder that tiny threats sometimes require community-wide solutions.

On a brighter note, Marion General Hospital has earned gold-standard recognition for its exceptional stroke care from the American Heart Association. The hospital's commitment to evidence-based treatment protocols is literally saving lives in our community. Meanwhile, bakery enthusiasts might soon need to adjust their pastry pilgrimages as Happy Little Treats prepares to leave its Short North location on August 24 for a more spacious Grandview home that promises expanded breakfast and lunch options.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Marion

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Prospect

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Waldo

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LaRue

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Green Camp

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Morral

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Caledonia

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New Bloomington

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🦟 Worthington battles West Nile as mosquito pools test positive. The Ohio city will spray for mosquitoes Thursday morning after 120 positive West Nile virus pools were detected in Franklin County this year. One human case has already been confirmed in the state, where a total of 194 positive mosquito pools have been found across 17 counties. Officials recommend residents stay indoors during spraying, close windows, and take precautions like using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing. The city will also trap mosquitoes, investigate complaints, and treat standing water in high-risk areas.

🏥 Marion General Hospital earns gold for exceptional stroke care. OhioHealth Marion General Hospital received multiple American Heart Association awards, including the Rural Stroke Gold and Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement awards. The hospital was also recognized with the Target: Type 2 Diabetes Honor Roll award for providing evidence-based care to high-risk patients. Stroke, the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S., requires early detection and treatment for optimal recovery. Marion General's commitment to following the latest treatment guidelines helps ensure better patient outcomes and healthier lives in the community.

🥐 Short North bakery packs up for suburban sweet spot. Happy Little Treats announced its final day at 1203 N. High St. will be August 24 before relocating to a larger space in Grandview at 1043 W. 3rd Ave. The plant-based bakery, known for accessible pastries that cater to all diets, will expand its offerings to include breakfast, lunch, and more snacks in the new location. While the exact opening date for the Grandview spot remains uncertain, the move promises customers a full dining room along with grab & go options. The bakery has been serving the Short North community since 2020.

Modern updates classic neighborhood appeal: Priced at $129,900, this fully renovated 3-bedroom home in Marion offers modern updates throughout, including new flooring, updated kitchen and bath, while maintaining its classic charm with a freshly refinished front porch and off-street parking.

Investor fixer-upper needs utilities: Priced at $60,000, this distressed 3-bedroom property with renovation potential is marketed to investors as a "diamond in the rough" ideal for flipping or adding to a rental portfolio, though it currently lacks utilities.

Peaceful acre home space abounds: Priced at $299,900, this charming 3-bed, 2-bath home on nearly an acre offers a newer roof, updated floors, double closets in all bedrooms, and a covered porch for enjoying those peaceful country sunrises and sunsets.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🥪 Jul. 24 - Panini Truck @ Shovel City: Warm up your Wednesday with mouthwatering paninis and steamy soup at Shovel City Drinkery! The local food truck rolls up to 181 N Main St on July 24 for a delicious midweek treat.

🙏 Jul. 25 - Rise Night Worship Fellowship: Join us for Rise Night at The Remnant Tea & Coffee on July 25th! Lift your spirits with an evening of uplifting worship and warm fellowship while supporting our community partnership. 187 W Center St, Marion.

🔥 Jul. 25 - Revival Nights Marion: Experience three nights of Holy Spirit power at REVIVAL NIGHTS MARION! Join this divine appointment for breakthrough July 25-27 at 1190 E Fairground St. Not just another service—it's your pathway to spiritual renewal!

🎄 Jul. 26 - Christmas in July Crafts: Get festive at the Jingle Bells & Summer Sales Craft Festival in Glenwood Park on July 26! Experience Christmas in July with this family-friendly celebration of summer magic and handmade treasures.

🔥 Jul. 26 - Glass Blowing & Sesh: Watch artists transform molten glass into art at "Glass & Hash" on July 26! Bring your favorite piece to this creative sesh featuring live glassblowing and local vendors at 1239 Mt Vernon Ave, Marion.

🍖 Jul. 26 - Grandpa's Kitchen BBQ Ribs: Grandpa's Kitchen returns to Shovel City Drinkery with mouthwatering ribs and more! Grab these out-of-this-world eats out front on July 26, 5-9pm at 181 N Main St, Marion.

🙏 In Remembrance

Paul W. Shoup

Paul W. Shoup, a 91-year-old resident of Upper Sandusky, passed away on July 21, 2025, surrounded by his family. He served in the U.S. Army from 1954-1957 and worked as a postmaster for the United States Postal Service from 1951 until 1988. Paul was passionate about harness horse racing, having trained horses, operated starting gates, and served on the board of the Ohio Harness Horsemen's Association. He is survived by his wife Betty Jo, whom he married in 1957, along with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Jewell G Ward

Jewell Gay Ward, 80, of Prospect, Ohio, passed away on July 19, 2025, at Riverside Methodist Hospital. Born in Kentucky in 1944, she married Ed Ward in 1960, and together they transformed an old train station into their family home. Known for her strong work ethic and skills as a cook and seamstress, Jewell worked at various establishments before retiring from the Smith Clinic. A woman of faith who enjoyed simple pleasures, she is survived by her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, with funeral services scheduled for July 24, 2025.

Theodore G. "Ted" Ebelberger

Theodore "Theo" Ebelberger, 79, passed away on July 19, 2025, after a life dedicated to God, family, and church. A U.S. Army veteran, he worked at The O.M. Scotts Company and later as CFO of UCO Industries before retiring, while also serving as treasurer and Sunday school teacher at Community United Calvary Church. Known for his financial wisdom and deep faith, Theo enjoyed golfing, supporting his grandchildren's activities, and beach vacations. He is survived by his wife Holly, children, bonus children, grandchildren, sister, and many friends, with funeral services scheduled for July 25 at Community United Calvary Church.