🌟 Homegrown excellence

Good morning, Westerville. Behind the headlines of tragedy in southeast Columbus today, there's a bright spot of excellence worth celebrating: three remarkable East Knox FFA officers just achieved what only a handful of chapters in Ohio can claim - perfect scores across the board in their state evaluations. It's a testament to the exceptional young leaders growing right here in our community.

And speaking of local excellence, Dublin-based Infoverity is proving once again that Central Ohio's tech scene can compete on the global stage. The data management firm just clinched its ninth "Partner of the Year" award from Informatica - a reminder that while we may be nestled in the heartland, our impact reaches from Ohio to India and everywhere in between.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Westerville

35°

42°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🔫 Double tragedy strikes southeast Columbus as two people killed in shooting. Police responded to reports of gunfire on Blakewell Lane West around 4:30 PM Wednesday, discovering one victim who was pronounced dead at the scene. A second victim was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to their injuries shortly after arrival. The incident occurred near Groveport, with Columbus police actively investigating. No suspects have been identified as authorities continue their search.

🌾 Three East Knox FFA officers achieve perfect scores in state evaluation. Mackenzie Wilson, Blake Elliott, and Aiden Kapper each scored a flawless 105 out of 105 on their chapter officer books for 2024-2025. Their achievement makes East Knox one of only four FFA chapters in District 7 to have all three officers earn gold ratings with perfect scores. The competition, which evaluates officers' record-keeping abilities, will culminate in a gold pin presentation at the 97th Ohio FFA Convention in May. East Knox FFA has maintained an impressive track record, earning gold ratings for nearly all officer books since 2001.

🏆 Data management firm Infoverity crowned Informatica's top global partner for 2024. The Dublin, Ohio-based company earned its ninth "Partner of the Year" award from Informatica since its founding in 2011, highlighting its excellence in enterprise data solutions. As a Platinum Informatica Partner, Infoverity has completed over 800 implementations for global companies across retail, manufacturing, and healthcare sectors. The company specializes in helping organizations transform and secure their enterprise data through automated solutions and custom accelerators. With offices spanning from Ohio to Spain, Germany, and India, Infoverity continues to expand its global footprint in data management services.

Expansive home near nature preserve: Listed at $995,000, this beautiful home features a luxurious first-floor master suite, a grand two-story foyer, and an expansive yard that backs onto a serene nature preserve. With spacious living areas and four additional bedrooms upstairs, it’s perfect for both relaxation and entertaining.

Updated Westlake Village gem: This beautifully renovated Westlake Village home in Westerville offers 4 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a home office, and a modern kitchen, all just a stone's throw from local schools and amenities, listed at $530,000.

Custom home with lofty features: This stunning custom-built home in the Olentangy School district is listed at $678,000 and boasts a spacious 2,904 sq. ft., featuring 3 beds, 2.5 baths, and a luxurious patio set against a serene backdrop. Experience the grandeur of 11-ft ceilings and a versatile loft space, all on a desirable corner lot.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🥫 Feb. 27 - Food Preservation Workshop 50+: Master the art of safe food preservation with expert Jeannie Seabrook at Westerville's Glass Rooster Cannery workshop. Learn five essential preservation methods, with a spotlight on canning. February 27 at 1069 W Main St.

🎸 Feb. 28 - Live Music @ Two-One: Groove into the weekend at The Two-One Restaurant, where live music sets the perfect mood every Friday and Saturday night inside the Renaissance Westerville Columbus-Polaris. Join us February 28th for soulful sounds.

💪 Feb. 28 - Arnold Classic Games: Flex your way to fitness glory at The Arnold Classic, bodybuilding's premier showcase! Watch amateur athletes compete for greatness at the Columbus Convention Center, starting 8am on February 28.

🎭 Feb. 28 - The Slaves Theater Production: Experience the power of live theater as "The Slaves" takes the stage at 1055 Colony Dr in Westerville. This captivating production promises an unforgettable evening of dramatic storytelling on February 28.

🎯 Feb. 28 - Fun Friday Bingo Night: Try your luck at Family Room Coffee & Bake Shop's free bingo nights! Join fellow players of all ages at 545 S Otterbein Ave in Westerville for chances to win delightful treats and prizes.

🏊 Mar. 02 - Westerville Pool Night: Make a splash at the Westerville Community Center's indoor pool session! Escape the winter chill with two hours of swimming fun this Sunday from 5:30-7:30pm at 350 N Cleveland Ave.

🎵 Mar. 02 - Sports & Music Concert: Score a perfect harmony of sports and symphony as ProMusica Chamber Orchestra performs at Westerville Library on March 2, pairing athletic-inspired music with the delightful story "Ready to Soar."

🙌 Mar. 02 - Sunday Night Worship Experience: Join hearts and voices at our uplifting Sunday Worship Experience, where we gather to celebrate God's redemptive story. Services held every Sunday evening at 233 S State St in Westerville.

🙏 In Remembrance

Marilyn Ruth Hahn

Marilyn Ruth Hahn, age 96, of Westerville, passed away at home on February 23, 2025. A devoted homemaker and pastor's wife, she was preceded in death by her husband of 73 years, Carl, and her sister Caroline. Marilyn is survived by her four children, multiple grandchildren, and a sister. Friends may visit Moreland Funeral Home on February 28, with a service on March 1, officiated by her son, Rev. Carl William Hahn, III. Interment will take place at Marlboro Cemetery in Delaware, OH.