🏰 Mansion mayhem

Good morning, Westerville. Move over, luxury real estate records - a jaw-dropping $3.43 million Dublin mansion sale just crashed through Central Ohio's price ceiling like the Kool-Aid Man through a wall. This palatial property leads a pack of 25 million-dollar-plus transactions in January alone, proving that our region's high-end housing market is hotter than a fresh Jeni's waffle cone.

While some local giants may be downsizing (we're looking at you, Big Lots), others are stepping up to reshape Columbus's future. OhioHealth's $36 million acquisition of that massive headquarters building hints at exciting changes ahead, and the weekend's packed cultural calendar - from hockey rivalries to symphony serenades - reminds us why so many people are eager to call Central Ohio home.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Westerville

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🎭 Columbus buzzes with weekend entertainment, from hockey rivalries to symphony sounds. The OSU men's hockey team faces off against Michigan at the Schottenstein Center, with tickets ranging from $20-60. The Columbus Symphony brings elegance with "Appalachian Spring" performances, while art lovers can explore the Short North's March Gallery Hop for free. The weekend rounds out with a Night at the Museum adventure and a nostalgic Warped Tour tribute featuring Hawthorne Heights' JT Woodruff.

🏠 Dublin mansion shatters Columbus real estate records with $3.43M sale. The stunning property topped January 2025's list of luxury home transactions across Franklin, Delaware, and Licking counties. New Albany claimed the second-highest sale at $2.3M, while Powell, Upper Arlington, and Grandview Heights rounded out the top five. The month saw 25 properties sell for over $1M, highlighting Central Ohio's robust luxury housing market. Notable neighborhoods like Bexley and Blacklick also featured prominently in the high-end sales list.

🏢 Healthcare giant swoops in to buy bankrupt Big Lots HQ for $36M. The Columbus headquarters - which Big Lots purchased for $69 million just five years ago - will be acquired by OhioHealth Corp following bankruptcy court approval. While the healthcare system has no immediate redevelopment plans, they're exploring options to convert the 300,000-square-foot building for medical use. Big Lots will temporarily lease back space for administrative operations, while current tenant Washington Prime Group's lease ends in November. The property comes with tax abatements through 2027, though OhioHealth's tax obligations remain unclear.

Elegant home with serene patio: Listed at $678,000, this stunning M/I custom-built home in Olentangy School district features 2,904 sq. ft., 3 beds, 2.5 baths, and a beautiful patio overlooking serene trees for perfect outdoor relaxation. With soaring ceilings, a primary suite on the first floor, and a spacious loft, it offers both elegance and comfort.

Spacious family home with amenities: This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home, listed at $400,000, features a large living area, an expansive eat-in kitchen with granite countertops, and a dedicated office, all within a community offering a clubhouse and pool. Conveniently located near I-270 and Route 161, it’s perfect for families seeking comfort and accessibility.

Serene updated retreat in Westerville: Welcome to your serene retreat in the Westerville City School District, where this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home features modern elegance, a stunning kitchen, and multiple outdoor spaces for relaxation. Priced at $265,000, this gem also offers community amenities and convenient access to local hotspots.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎸 Feb. 28 - Live Music @ Two-One: Groove into the weekend with live tunes at The Two-One Restaurant, where local musicians set the perfect mood every Friday and Saturday night inside the Renaissance Westerville Columbus-Polaris.

💪 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 on February 28, starting at 8am.

🎭 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 Family Bingo Night: Lucky numbers and sweet treats await at Family Room Coffee & Bake Shop's free Bingo nights! Drop by 545 S Otterbein Ave on Feb 28 for family-friendly fun and a chance to win delightful prizes.

💪 Mar. 01 - Arnold Sports Festival: Flex your muscles at the legendary Arnold Sports Festival, where fitness fanatics and sports enthusiasts unite at Columbus Convention Center for an action-packed Saturday showcase of strength and athleticism. March 1, 2025.

🏠 Mar. 01 - Open House Tour: Curious house-hunters, come explore this charming Westerville home during an open house at 70 S Vine Street. Stop by between noon and 2pm on March 1st to discover your potential new nest.

🏊 Mar. 02 - Westerville Pool Practice: 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 - Sunday Night Worship Experience: Join us for an uplifting Sunday evening of worship and community at 233 S State St in Westerville, where we gather to celebrate God's redemptive story. Services held every Sunday at 7pm.

💰 Financial Friday

Consider automating your savings by setting up a direct deposit from your paycheck into a separate savings account; this makes saving easier and helps you build your nest egg without even thinking about it.

🙏 In Remembrance

Vernon L. Pack

Vernon L. Pack, 99, of Westerville, passed away on January 18, 2025. Born on July 7, 1925, in Washington, D.C., he was adopted at three and went on to graduate from McCurdy High School in 1943. A retired public-school teacher with a B.A. from Otterbein College and a Master of Education from OSU, he served as a Navy Pharmacist's Mate during WWII. Vernon was active in numerous organizations, known for his philanthropy, coaching, and community engagement, and enjoyed reading to adult day care groups. A visitation will be held on March 22 at Church of the Master, followed by a service.