🦠 Ohio’s First Human Case of Bird Flu Reported

Plus: 🍴This Short North Spot Is Closing After Nearly 20 Years

Author

Chelsea Wiley
February 13, 2025

Sponsored by Short North Stage 🎭
Get ready for a night of theater, glamour, and pure magic at One Singular Sensation, the Short North Stage Gala on March 1. With dazzling performances, creative cocktails, and a special appearance by Broadway’s original Elle Woods, Laura Bell Bundy, this is one event you won’t want to miss. Grab your tickets now at shortnorthstage.org!

Hello, Thursday! Chelsea here.

The bird flu is hitting Ohio farms hard right now. There have been nearly 40 commercial flocks and 8.7 million birds affected in the state, according to USDA data. On top of all that, Ohio just confirmed its first probable human case of bird flu. Health officials are monitoring the situation, but what does this mean for you? Here’s what we know and what you should keep in mind.

🍴 Happy Greek Is Closing After Nearly 20 Years in the Short North
It’s always a shame to hear about restaurant closures, especially when they’re as delicious as Happy Greek. According to a heartfelt statement from the restaurant, the closure comes after unsuccessful negotiations with their landlord to renew their lease.

🌳 Ohio Is Home To The Most Old-Growth Forests In The U.S.
These ancient woodlands are packed with towering trees, rich history, and some seriously stunning views. We’re breaking down where to find them, why they matter, and the hidden gems you can explore right here in Ohio.

Headlines 📰 

👗 Xantha Ward is turning thrifted finds into high fashion, proving that creativity and couture can come from anywhere, even a loofah scrub. (Columbus Monthly)

✅ Planning to vote on May 6th in the primary election? Central Ohio voters will decide a variety of issues that aim to fund school districts, fire, police, and other services through property taxes, and more. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming election. (Axios)

🎨 Black artists in Columbus are stirring up something special, but the art world still isn’t serving them their due. With a newly compiled list of 200 Black artists in the city, Scott Woods dishes up the raw truth about the systemic struggles, overlooked talent, and the recipe for real change. (Matter News)

🌨️ Weather: 34 with a chance of flurries

Sponsored by Greater Columbus Arts Council 🎨
Looking for your next night out? Discover captivating art, performances, and more in Columbus this month! Explore the Greater Columbus Arts Council's event calendar to find local arts experiences that move you. For more info, head over to columbusmakesart.com/events.

Coming Up 📆

Today's Photo 🤳

🏡 The Park home on Sunbury Rd. was more than just a house. It was a refuge. Built in 1849 by abolitionists James and Margaret Park, it sheltered freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad, complete with hidden crawlspaces and a basement tunnel. 176 years later, the house still stands as a quiet witness to Columbus history.

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- Chelsea