Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Westerville / April 1, 2025

🏗️ Crane disappearing act

Westerville • April 1, 2025

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Good morning, Westerville. In the world of construction, equipment doesn't just walk away—except when it does. A jaw-dropping $500,000 crane has vanished from a local worksite, leaving authorities searching for both the massive piece of machinery and the surprisingly skilled thieves who somehow managed to disappear with a 60-ton vehicle that's about as inconspicuous as a giraffe at a dog show.

While investigators hunt for the missing crane, foodies have something more appetizing to track down. Taj on Fifth is reimagining Indian cuisine with creative twists on traditional favorites, centered around an impressive bar serving cardamom-infused cocktails. And if you're shopping after April 1, prepare for that slightly painful moment at checkout—Franklin County's sales tax jumps to 8%, funding future transit improvements including dedicated bus lanes and hundreds of miles of new sidewalks and bikeways.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🏗️ Thieves steal massive $500,000 crane from Ohio construction site. The Franklin County Sheriff's Office is investigating after a 2019 Kenworth 60-Ton Long Boom National Crane disappeared from Kent Power Company's site near Eldorado Casinos. Authorities believe the theft occurred overnight or during the weekend, requiring someone with specialized knowledge to operate such equipment. Investigators note the massive crane would be difficult to conceal and should be easily recognizable. The Sheriff's Office is asking anyone with information to contact their Detective Bureau, with tipsters allowed to remain anonymous.

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🍛 Columbus restaurant reinvents Indian dining with modern flair. Taj on Fifth, opened by Ajay Kumar and Roopa Singh, brings a contemporary twist to traditional Indian cuisine in a stylish space centered around an impressive bar. The menu features familiar dishes with creative interpretations, alongside specialty cocktails infused with cardamom, chicory, and masala salt. While appetizers impress, the signature large plates—particularly the makhani and Punjabi curry—steal the show alongside "incredible" garlic naan. The restaurant serves dinner Tuesday through Friday and adds lunch hours on weekends.

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💰 Franklin County shoppers face sales tax hike starting April 1. The increase of 0.5% will bring the total sales tax in Columbus and most areas to 8%. The tax rise stems from voters approving the Central Ohio Transportation Authority (COTA) levy last year. Funds will support five "bus rapid transit" systems with dedicated lanes and rail-style platforms, plus 500 miles of new sidewalks and bikeways. Drivers will begin seeing changes along West Broad Street by 2028.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Family Haven Finished Basement Bonus: This lovely $579,900 home in the Oaks at Highland Lakes features an open floor plan, home office, formal dining, three upstairs bedrooms, and a finished basement with full bath and workout room.
Real estate listing image Compact ranch with outdoor extras: Priced at $425,000, this 2-bedroom ranch-style condo offers maintenance-free living with a spacious kitchen, sunroom, private patio, 2-car garage, plus community amenities including a clubhouse and pool.
Real estate listing image Spacious granite gated pool paradise: Listed at $280,000, this spacious end unit offers vaulted ceilings, granite countertops, and three bedrooms in a gated community with amenities including a pool, fitness center, and clubhouse.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎵 Apr. 2 - Mario R&B Concert: R&B sensation Mario takes over Nationwide Arena on April 2! Groove to his hits, including the Gold-certified "Just a Friend 2002," at this can't-miss concert. Don't forget to pre-purchase parking.
🏄 Apr. 3 - almost monday Surf Vibes: Catch California sunshine vibes with almost monday at A&R Music Bar on April 3! This funky indie band brings their ecstatic choruses and infectious energy to 391 Neil Ave, Columbus for one night only.
🎭 Apr. 3 - Louis C.K. Stand-Up: Comedy legend Louis C.K. brings his Emmy and Grammy-winning stand-up to Columbus Funny Bone on April 3. Catch the master of observational humor live at Easton Town Center for this adults-only show!
🌱 Apr. 04 - Spring Roundup 2025: Join the "Simple, But Not Easy" Spring Roundup 2025 celebration at Crowne Plaza Columbus North on April 4-6! Connect with the recovery community for a weekend of inspiration and fellowship.
🌼 Apr. 4 - Daisy the Great: Groove to indie-pop sensations Daisy the Great as they bring their Ballerina Tour to A&R Music Bar on April 4, 2025. Get ready for an intimate night of catchy harmonies and vibrant energy!
🎀 Apr. 4 - Press Studio Anniversary Celebration: Celebrate Press Studio's 3rd Anniversary with a ribbon cutting and open house! Stop by 20 S State St in Westerville on April 4 from 10AM-1PM and save 15% on future appointments.
🎸 Apr. 4 - Alan Carl Country Night: Saddle up for country powerhouse Alan Carl at Fenders in Westerville on April 4! This blue-collar Ohio native brings his signature sound for just $10 cover at 8333 Market Exchange Dr.
🕺 Apr. 6 - Footloose: Dance Revolution: Kick off your Sunday shoes at Otterbein Theatre's "Footloose" in Cowan Hall! Join rebellious Ren as he shakes up a small farming town on April 6 in this toe-tapping musical adventure.

🙏 In Remembrance

Mary Kadel

Mary M. Kadel, 105, of Westerville and formerly of Springfield, died on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at New Albany Care Center. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 3 from 5-7 p.m. at Moreland Funeral Home in Westerville. A funeral service will take place at the same location on Friday, April 4 at 10:30 a.m., followed by a graveside service at 2 p.m. at Ferncliff Cemetery in Springfield. The full obituary can be viewed on the funeral home's website.

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