🦞 Seafood royalty

Good morning, Westerville. The culinary crown has been placed! Mitchell's Ocean Club has officially earned the title of Ohio's "most beloved seafood restaurant," boasting an impressive 4.7-star rating from over 1,600 diners who've fallen for their Maine lobster and Chilean sea bass. While Columbus celebrates this seafood royalty, another culinary gem is making waves – T-Co Islands is bringing authentic Haitian flavors to the city with its daily-changing menu of Caribbean delights served in a casual setting that feels both neighborhood-friendly and exotic.

Beyond the food scene, an important conversation is coming to town as Israeli influencer Rudy Rochman prepares to speak at Chabad Columbus on March 19. The free event, expected to draw hundreds, will feature Rochman sharing firsthand experiences while creating space for open dialogue about Judaism and heritage – part of Chabad's ongoing Ambassadors of Israel programming designed to foster understanding during challenging times.

🌤 Sky Skoop

Westerville

36°

66°

☕️ What's Brewing Locally

🐟 Columbus seafood spot crowned Ohio's most beloved restaurant. Mitchell's Ocean Club has earned the title of Ohio's "most beloved seafood restaurant" according to Finance Buzz's nationwide search. The Columbus eatery boasts an impressive 4.7-star Google rating from over 1,600 reviews and offers an extensive seafood menu featuring Maine lobster, King crab legs, sushi, and Chilean sea bass. Beyond just seafood, Mitchell's doubles as a piano bar where diners can enjoy a glass of wine with their meal. Finance Buzz specifically highlighted local establishments over chains in their quest to identify the top seafood destinations across America.

🍽️ Haitian flavors find a home in Columbus at T-Co Islands. This small but mighty restaurant serves authentic Caribbean cuisine like beloved fried pork and tasso beef in a casual, no-frills setting. Owned by William and Claucia Jean-Louis since 2021, the eatery offers a daily-changing menu with dishes accompanied by flavorful rice, spicy pickled cabbage, and sides like hot cabbage and fried plantains. T-Co Islands delivers an authentic taste of Haiti with heart, creating a space that feels like both a neighborhood hangout and a seaside stand.

🎤 IDF soldier Rudy Rochman brings anti-antisemitism message to Columbus. The Israeli influencer will speak at Chabad Columbus on March 19, sharing firsthand experiences from fighting in Gaza and Lebanon. Rochman, known for his social media advocacy, welcomes open dialogue while educating people on Judaism and advocating for Israel. Rabbi Areyah Kaltmann emphasized the importance of Rochman's message in helping Jewish youth feel proud of their heritage during a time of rising antisemitism. The free event is expected to draw hundreds as part of Chabad's Ambassadors of Israel programming.

Family Funday: St Paddy's Day Edition

Where: The Draft Room, 570 W Schrock Rd, Westerville, OH

When: Mar 16

☘️ Family Funday brings St. Patrick's Day cheer for all ages at The Draft Room! This festive celebration offers free crafts and entertainment designed to delight kids while parents enjoy the adult beverages and social atmosphere. The March 16th event at Westerville's Draft Room (570 W Schrock Rd) promises to be one of the organizer's most popular gatherings of the season. Don't miss this perfect opportunity to celebrate the Irish holiday with both family-friendly activities and grown-up refreshments all under one roof.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Luxurious home includes basketball court: Priced at $839,900, this custom R&H home in Harvest Wind offers four bedrooms, multiple baths, and special features including a basketball court in the lower level and a screened porch perfect for summer relaxation.

Wow Westerville woods and space: Priced at $687,900, this Westerville two-story has a striking updated kitchen, vaulted ceilings, and sits on nearly 3/4 acre wooded lot, with a finished lower level and spacious bedrooms.

Spacious Westerville home near everything: This McDot Farms property, listed at $539,900, features a spacious 2,552 sq ft Westerville home with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a finished basement—all in a convenient location near schools and parks.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎉 Mar. 12 - Brian Douglas Day: Celebrate Brian Douglas Day at The Two-One Restaurant with food, drinks, and community cheer! Join the festivities on March 12 from 5-8pm at 409 Altair Parkway in Westerville.

🎭 Mar. 12 - Ben Brainard Comedy Show: Laugh the night away with comedian Ben Brainard at Columbus Funny Bone on March 12! Enjoy drinks and dinner while this rising comedy star brings down the house. 21+ only, full bar available.

🎸 Mar. 14 - Acoustic Evening: Trey Anastasio: Phish frontman Trey Anastasio brings his soul-stirring acoustic melodies to Mershon Auditorium on Friday, March 14. Don't miss this intimate evening with one of rock's most innovative guitarists at 1871 N High St.

🌈 Mar. 15 - Columbus Holi Festival: Splash into spring at ANTA's vibrant Holi Celebration! Join the community for a colorful festival experience at Thompson Park Shelter House on March 15, where tradition meets joy in this beloved Festival of Colors.

🎸 Mar. 15 - Rick Live at JC: Catch popular songwriter Rick live at Java Central Café this Friday! Enjoy his prolific talents while sipping your favorite brew at 20 S State St in Westerville on March 15.

🎄 Mar. 15 - Radio City Christmas: Celebrate the season with Radio City Christmas at Double Barrel Kitchen & Bar in Westerville! Join the festive fun on March 15 at 8:00 PM for a night of holiday magic and cheer.

🏊 Mar. 16 - Westerville Pool Session: Dive into winter at Westerville Community Center's Pool Session this Sunday from 5:30-7:30pm! Splash around at 350 N Cleveland Ave while shaking off those March chills. Perfect for water enthusiasts of all levels.

☘️ Mar. 16 - St. Paddy's Family Funday: Celebrate St. Paddy's Day with the whole family at The Draft Room's Family Funday! Kids enjoy free crafts while adults sip on festive drinks. Join the fun March 16 in Westerville.

🙏 In Remembrance

Noah Teye Akuetteh

Noah T. Akuetteh (1936-present), born in Somanya, Ghana, lived a life defined by service as a teacher, airline professional, preoperative technician, and church elder. After a career in aviation and hospitality, he relocated to the United States, eventually settling in Columbus, Ohio, where he continued to serve his community and strengthen his faith. A devoted family man, Noah found his greatest joy in his wife Evelyn, his children, and his ten grandchildren. His legacy of kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith touched countless lives beyond his immediate family, making him a source of strength and encouragement to many in his community.

Gary Eugene Frey

Gary Eugene Frey, 90, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2025, in Westerville. He is survived by his wife of over 64 years, Marilyn, their three children, eight grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. After serving in the U.S. Army, Gary worked for 30 years at Rocketdyne before spending another 30 years part-time at Jack Maxton Chevrolet. Known for his honor, faith, and sense of humor, Gary was an active member of Westerville Christian Church for 53 years and enjoyed golf, gardening, traveling, and spending time with his family.