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🚀 Tech town rising

Union County • October 16, 2025

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Good morning, Union County. From startups to legacies, innovation is transforming our community landscape. Hilliard City Lab has become a powerful economic engine, with its 71-mile broadband network and generous grant program generating an impressive $87 million in private investment. The tech incubator isn't just supporting businesses—it's earning Hilliard recognition as one of the world's Smart21 cities for three consecutive years while providing valuable experience to local students.

As we witness this growth, we also pause to honor those who've shaped our community through service. Vietnam veteran Lorin Johnson's unexpected passing leaves behind a remarkable legacy of compassion—from baking bread for first responders to donating 15 gallons of blood throughout his lifetime. Meanwhile, election season approaches with numerous local races across Delaware County townships and villages, with candidates preparing to make their case to voters ahead of the November 4th ballot.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🚀 Hilliard City Lab transforms startups with tech-powered innovation hub. The Ohio incubator offers entrepreneurs access to a 71-mile high-speed broadband network, grants up to $25,000, and infrastructure testing opportunities in a low-bureaucracy environment. Since launching, the city has awarded 46 grants totaling $1.2 million, generating $87 million in private investment and supporting over 1,245 jobs. Tech companies like Ubihere and IC3D Inc. benefit from the "AI Sandbox" cloud computing network, while local high school students gain valuable internship experience. The initiative has earned Hilliard recognition on the Intelligent Community Forum's Smart21 cities list from 2023 to 2025.

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🕊️ Lorin Johnson's life of selfless service leaves lasting legacy. The 79-year-old Vietnam veteran and devoted family man passed away unexpectedly on October 11, 2025, after dedicating his life to helping others through faith and kindness. A talented musician during his military service and later a successful salesman at EJ Thomas Co., Johnson was known for his generous spirit—baking bread for first responders, donating 15 gallons of blood, and supporting numerous charities. He leaves behind his wife of 56 years, Erma, three children, four grandchildren, and countless lives touched by his unwavering compassion and humble heart.

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🗳️ Delaware County's ballot overflows with races and candidates. The Delaware Gazette provides a roundup of local elections happening on November 4, 2025, focusing on less publicized contests. From village councils to township trustees, dozens of incumbents and challengers are competing for positions across Ashley, Brown Township, Concord Township and more. While some candidates run unopposed, several townships feature competitive races with multiple candidates vying for limited seats. The article also notes that Columbus Zoo and Westerville City Schools have levies appearing on the ballot.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Modern upgraded home ready now: This move-in ready home is on the market for $359,900, featuring a vaulted great room, modern kitchen, stylish LVP flooring, finished basement, primary suite with walk-in closet, and numerous 2021-2025 upgrades throughout.
Modest Ohio home priced suspiciously: A modest 1,412-square-foot home with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms is now available at 319 W 7th St in Marysville, Ohio. The property has a list price of $0, which seems too good to be true.
Real estate listing image Affordable updated home with yard: Priced at $182,900, this charming 3-bedroom home offers a cozy living room with wood-burning stove, flexible dining/family space, and a fully fenced backyard, with recent updates to HVAC, siding, roof, and more.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🤝 Oct. 16 - Business After Hours Networking: Network and mingle at Business After Hours hosted by Eufinger Law Offices on October 16. Join fellow professionals at 1041 N Maple St in Marysville for connections and conversation.
🏗️ Oct. 16 - Design & Race Ramps: Race to the finish at Construction Crew! Design your own ramp and compete for victory at Richwood-North Union Public Library on October 16. Fun for all ages at 4 E Ottawa St, Richwood.
🍽️ Oct. 17 - Hope Celebration Lunch: Join us for the uplifting Celebration of Hope Lunch at Union Rural Electric Cooperative in Marysville on October 17. Doors open at 11:30am with special guests Bruce Daniels and Lavona sharing inspirational stories until 1pm.
🎵 Oct. 17 - Live Music at Benny's: Groove to live tunes while savoring delicious slices at Benny's Pizza on October 17! Head to 968 Columbus Ave in Marysville for an evening of music, food, and drinks.
🍂 Oct. 18 - Plain City Fall Fest: Celebrate autumn's arrival at Plain City's annual Fall Fest in Pastime Park! Bring the whole family to enjoy fun fall activities on October 18 at 370 N Chillicothe St.
🎸 Oct. 18 - Paul Smock Country Night: Tap your boots to live country tunes as Paul Smock takes the stage at The Maize At Little Darby Creek! Enjoy this talented Northwest artist on October 18 from 6:30-9:30pm in Milford Center.
🎮 Oct. 18 - Family Game Day: Grab your favorite board games and head to Basecamp every Saturday for Family Game Day! Cold drinks and fun games await at 222 E 8th St, Marysville - bring your own or choose from their collection.
🕵️ Oct. 18 - Murder Mystery: Juice Joint: Step back into the Roaring Twenties at House of Spirits' Murder at the Juice Joint! Solve a thrilling mystery while sipping cocktails on October 18, 7:30-10:30pm. Only 30 tickets available at $50 each.
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