Good morning, Union County. A rare conservation success story is unfolding in Ohio's waterways as hellbender salamanders—those prehistoric-looking amphibians that can grow up to two feet long—are making a comeback thanks to the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds' breeding program. These unique creatures, which lurk beneath rocks in clean streams, serve as living barometers of our ecosystem's health. Their return represents a small but significant victory for Ohio's biodiversity at a time when good environmental news feels increasingly precious.
The local leadership landscape is evolving too, with four candidates vying for two Orange Township trustee seats. Each brings distinctive qualifications to the table—from farming heritage to fire service experience. Meanwhile, pizza enthusiasts have reason to celebrate as Massey's makes its triumphant return to Powell under new ownership. After a quiet soft opening on Brewster Lane, the popular pizzeria is preparing for a grand celebration complete with specialty deals.
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0%☕️ What's Brewing Locally
🗳️ Four local candidates vie for two Orange Township trustee seats. Jeff Ayers, John Gabriel Hadam, Seth Moody, and Gregory Vogel are competing to replace outgoing trustees David Elson and George Parks. Each candidate brings unique qualifications – Ayers is a third-generation farmer, Hadam a former fire chief, Vogel works in tractor sales with road repair experience, and Moody is a service manager with HVAC and excavation background. All candidates emphasize road maintenance, financial responsibility, and community service as key priorities for the township. The newly elected trustees will serve four-year terms alongside Brian Canfield, whose term ends in 2027.
🦎 Rare hellbender salamanders return to Ohio's wild waterways. The Columbus Zoo and The Wilds are spearheading conservation efforts for these unique amphibians through a comprehensive breeding program. Staff members have been actively releasing captive-bred hellbenders into suitable Ohio streams and rivers while also collecting eggs from the wild to support breeding efforts. The initiative aims to bolster populations of these distinctive salamanders, which typically lurk under rocks in clean, flowing water. This release represents an important step in preserving a native species that serves as an indicator of ecosystem health.
🍕 Powell's pizza lovers rejoice as Massey's returns to town. The popular pizzeria on Brewster Lane has reopened under new ownership after closing earlier this year. Franchisee Vikas Potu quietly launched a soft opening last week, allowing staff to gain experience before a formal announcement. Potu chose the location for its proximity to communities, Kroger, and the Columbus Zoo, which bring substantial foot traffic. A grand opening celebration featuring specialty pizza deals is planned soon.
🏡 Real Estate Reveals
Sprawling luxury designer dream home: This luxurious 5-bedroom, 5.5-bath home is listed at $931,000 and offers over 4,000 square feet of designer living space with premium features throughout, including a chef's kitchen, private bathrooms for each bedroom, and an impressive finished basement.
Small town fixer upper dream: A $159,000 home in Magnetic Springs offers 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, 2-car garage, shed, and RV carport. Nestled in a peaceful town, this property awaits your personal touch to unlock its charm.
Classic auction four-bedroom deal: This cash-only 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home built in 2005 is listed at $292,000 with an auction ending 10-28-2025. Seller covers taxes, HOA, and municipal liens, but bidders should review auction disclaimers carefully.🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla
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