Columbus Local Pulse

Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Friday, June 6th, 2025.

We start today with breaking news from Columbus police, who have taken important steps to better serve our diverse community. Our city has launched a new 911 system upgrade that enables residents to text for help in multiple languages, with automatic translation built in. Officers are also rolling out multilingual placards around town to discreetly connect domestic violence victims with emergency aid. These changes mean help is now more accessible for everyone, no matter what language we speak or read.

In jobs and business, there’s big news from Procter and Gamble, which just announced it will cut about 7,000 non-manufacturing jobs over the next two years. The move comes amid continued economic uncertainty. While the company didn’t specify numbers just for Columbus, we know many local workers are bracing for the impact. On the brighter side, the Yappy Greek is opening a new location right here in Columbus with a grand celebration planned, so there are still new opportunities for work and some fresh Mediterranean flavors for us to enjoy.

Our real estate scene remains active, with steady demand in neighborhoods like Grandview and Clintonville. Home prices are holding firm, and open houses this weekend are expected to draw plenty of visitors thanks to Columbus’s growing reputation as one of the nation’s top big cities to live in.

From City Hall, the big update is the city’s push to improve emergency response and community safety. After several high-profile incidents, leaders are inviting public feedback on new police chief candidates at upcoming forums. The goal is a department that’s ready for all challenges—and more connected to our neighborhoods.

Turning to weather, we’ve got a mixed bag. Scattered showers and a few thunderstorms are rolling through today as a cold front drops in, so grab an umbrella if you’re headed downtown or to an outdoor lunch. Some storms could be strong, with gusty winds and even hail in a few pockets. Temperatures will stay in the comfortable 70s. By Saturday, things dry out and the rest of our weekend is looking much calmer and pleasant.

In arts and culture, the Columbus Arts Festival takes over the riverfront all weekend, featuring more than 80 live performances on four stages and hundreds of artists lined up along the Scioto Mile. If you’re in the mood for music or food, the festival is a must-see. Kids and families won’t want to miss exhibits at COSI and special events at the Columbus Museum of Art and Franklin Park Conservatory.

On the sports front, big congratulations to the Blue Jackets’ Sean Monahan, who was awarded the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy for perseverance and dedication to hockey. Local schools are also in the spotlight, with Wellington welcoming a new Head of School and Columbus City Schools launching a new program to connect students with careers in manufacturing.

Looking to crime and safety, Columbus police responded last

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025.

We start our morning with some important updates from City Hall. Columbus City Council just rolled out new renter protection ordinances, giving tenants stronger rights and more security. This is a big move for the thousands of Columbus residents facing rising housing costs and changing rental landscapes. In another boost for our local economy, Governor DeWine announced six economic development projects set to create more than 700 new jobs statewide, including 100 jobs right here in Franklin County thanks to Hexion’s expansion in Dublin. That’s nearly 12 million dollars in new payroll, with the company opening a new research and development center for chemists and scientists. It’s a positive sign for job seekers and our growing tech sector.

Turning to the real estate scene, these investments are expected to generate over 39 million dollars in new development across Ohio. With new hiring in both tech and manufacturing locally, the job market is looking strong for summer.

On the weather front, we’re waking up to lots of sunshine and cool temperatures near 54 degrees now, climbing to a high of 88 this afternoon. Expect warm, dry weather for the next couple of days, which means perfect conditions for outdoor events and evening walks. Just remember to stay hydrated as we move into the hotter part of the week.

Big news in our neighborhoods: Columbus firefighters quickly contained a two-alarm blaze at an apartment building overnight. Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported. On the crime front, police responded to a hit-and-run in Linden where a minor was injured. Authorities are asking for tips from anyone who saw something near the intersection of Cleveland Avenue and Myrtle. On Lockbourne Road, a felonious assault investigation is underway after reports of shots fired yesterday afternoon. If you have any information, Columbus Police urge you to come forward. Meanwhile, police continue to search for the suspects in the recent mattress store robbery in Linden, described in some reports as the twin box-spring bandits.

In sports, there’s plenty of excitement with the U.S. Open golf qualifiers finishing up at Kinsale in Powell. Several PGA stars made an extended stop in Columbus. For football fans, Ohio State remains the top pick for the Big Ten title this season as preseason buzz heats up.

On the cultural front, Columbus Taco Week kicks off today at restaurants all over the city, so grab your friends and try some new local favorites. And the Columbus Arts Festival returns to the Scioto Mile this weekend with art, live music, and delicious food trucks—a signature event for our creative community.

Schools are wrapping up the year, but summer programs are kicking off across Columbus. Mayor Ginther says these activities not only keep kids engaged but make our city safer. And a big congratulations to the Wellington School on their historic appointment of a new Head of School,

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Saturday, May 31, 2025. We start with breaking news: an intense manhunt has ended after the suspect accused of shooting two Mifflin Township officers was taken into custody late last night. Both officers were injured in the initial incident near Agler Road. One has already been discharged from the hospital, while the other remains stable in the ICU after surgery. Authorities report the suspect was found after a citywide search and is also receiving medical treatment. Stay tuned for any further updates, and our thoughts remain with the officers and their families during this difficult time.

Turning to City Hall, there are a few key decisions affecting all of us. The Columbus City Council has approved the 2025 Pavement Management Plan. Crews will be busy this summer on projects like the complete overhaul of 19th Street from Howard Boulevard to 45th Avenue and ramp upgrades for ADA accessibility on 6th Street near our schools. These efforts are all about keeping our roads safer and smoother for everyone, so please watch for construction zones when driving around town. In other council news, a new initiative has been launched to support youth facing homelessness. A seventy-five thousand dollar grant will go to Star House, helping young people access job training and stable housing. There are also new plans to help attract a restaurant and more food trucks to the civic center area—exciting news for downtown food lovers.

On the weather front, it’s feeling more like early summer. After a chilly night with a few showers, we’ll warm up today to the upper sixties downtown and the low seventies out west. Skies will be a little hazy because of wildfire smoke drifting in from Canada, so keep an eye out for those beautiful red sunrises and sunsets. Sunday looks even better, with plenty of sunshine and a high in the low seventies.

Let’s talk community. There’s no shortage of things to do in Columbus this weekend. The Columbus Museum of Art and Franklin Park Conservatory are open for those who love creativity and nature. Tonight, catch the final performance of Fun Home at the local theater, or swing by Bicentennial Park, where food trucks will be gathering. Pride celebrations are in full swing, and pop-up comedy is happening downtown for those in need of a few laughs. Sports fans will be happy to know Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith and Caleb Downs are featured on the cover of this year’s college football video game.

For our school community, congratulations go out to our local high-school robotics team, which just placed in the top five at a statewide competition. And in real estate, we’re still seeing steady growth. The job market remains strong, with several major employers posting new openings this week and unemployment holding below four percent.

One more feel-good note: Grandpa Joe, the beloved Hilliard school crossing guard, retired yesterday after a decade of helping kids cross safely at Main Street. The en

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Friday, May 30, 2025.

We wake up to cooler temperatures after early morning showers, with a high today near seventy and mostly dry skies expected this afternoon. If you have outdoor plans around Goodale Park or near the Scioto Mile, the weather should cooperate for most of the day.

At City Hall, several issues that touch our daily lives are advancing. Columbus City Council is working on a $1.5 million plan to provide free legal help for tenants who face eviction. With more than fifty eviction cases coming through court each week and over four hundred files in May alone, this funding aims to keep more families housed and provide legal resources to those navigating the eviction process. The council is also considering a $75,000 grant to Star House, a local nonprofit that runs a 24/7 drop-in center for homeless youth, supporting teens and young adults as they work toward safety and stability. Plus, efforts continue to find a new restaurant tenant for the space at 229 Civic Center Drive, which Milestone 229 called home for fourteen years. Food trucks are also planned for Bicentennial Park as a new draw for downtown lunchgoers and visitors.

On the infrastructure front, our city’s 2025 Pavement Management Plan is rolling ahead. That means new paving and stormwater work on 19th and 25th Streets, Cottonwood Drive, and portions of 6th Street. If you travel those corridors, expect better roads and improved pedestrian crossings by year’s end, thanks to voter-backed sales tax dollars.

In the real estate and job market, the buzz remains steady in Columbus. While rents continue to climb, new projects around the Arena District and East Franklinton are adding both jobs and apartment options. Unemployment remains low, and new job postings this month are up about five percent citywide compared to this time last year.

Looking at community events, the Columbus Arts Festival kicks off tonight along the riverfront, featuring live music, food trucks, and local artists. Be sure to check out the Linden Farmers Market Sunday morning on Cleveland Avenue for fresh produce and handmade crafts.

Sports fans, you might have noticed some fireworks last night from the ballpark in Chillicothe as the Paints grabbed a big home opener win. Locally, our high school track teams brought home several medals at the state meet, with Eastmoor Academy’s girls relay team earning top honors.

For public safety, Columbus Police report a quiet Thursday night, with only two major incidents under investigation—one burglary on E. Livingston Avenue and a vehicle break-in downtown. Officers remind everyone to keep valuables out of sight and lock up as summer activities ramp up.

Let’s end on a high note. This week, a group of third graders from Avondale Elementary wrote thank-you letters to city sanitation workers, who surprised the kids with a morning visit and a tour of their new trucks. It’s a reminder that kindness and connection carry plenty o

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Thursday, May 29th.

We begin today with breaking news from northeast Columbus, where two Mifflin Township police officers were shot during a traffic stop last night near Mecca Road and Purdue Avenue. Both officers were rushed to the hospital, one in critical condition. Authorities have identified Daveonte Dixon as the suspect and the search for him continues this morning. Streets in the area remain on high alert, so please avoid the Mecca and Purdue area if you can. City officials urge anyone with information to come forward as the investigation is ongoing.

In another developing story, Columbus police are looking for two people of interest after a violent assault on Ottis Court early Tuesday. The victim remains in critical condition, and the Columbus Police Homicide Unit has taken over the investigation. Anyone with tips is asked to reach out to the department or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers.

As for the rest of our crime report, police responded to a string of robberies on Parsons Avenue and Gemini Place over the past 24 hours. No arrests have been reported yet, but patrols in those neighborhoods have increased for public safety.

Flipping to city hall, discussions heat up around a proposed amendment to abolish property taxes for Ohioans. While no decision is finalized, this has sparked major debates, and we'll keep watching how this could affect local homeowners and renters alike.

On the real estate front, the local market remains steady. Listings in Franklin County averaged about three weeks on the market, with prices holding firm. Rental demand uptown has picked up now that summer moves are underway, especially around the Arena District and Short North.

The job market continues to show improvement. The latest numbers indicate several hundred new openings across logistics and healthcare, especially near Rickenbacker and along Morse Road. Local businesses like Brew Dog and a new tech startup on High Street announced hiring fairs over the next week, offering both part-time and full-time jobs.

Today’s weather will be a bit damp with cloudy skies, so keep an umbrella handy if you’re heading out for lunch or a walk along the Scioto Mile. The temperature should hover in the mid-70s and we can expect warmer weather to return by the weekend.

Culturally, the city is buzzing as the Memorial Tournament gears up at Muirfield Village. Golf fans can expect a stellar field this year, and tomorrow marks the start of the Golden Bear Pro-Am. Meanwhile, live music returns tonight at Express Live with a sold-out show for a popular indie band. If you’re downtown, expect some traffic near Nationwide Arena.

Sports fans have reason to cheer as Ohio State’s Fillmore has punched his ticket to nationals at the NCAA East First Round. The Buckeyes track team overcame weather delays and look to make a strong showing this year.

For the feel-good story of the day, students from Wellington School are celebrating the appoin

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Tuesday, May 27, 2025.

Tragedy struck Morrow County as a deputy was shot and killed while responding to a domestic situation. Law enforcement agencies across central Ohio have been responding to the incident, with more details expected throughout the day.

Here in Columbus, city officials are continuing their crackdown on nuisance properties, targeting drug houses and crime hotspots across the city. This initiative follows recent cleanup efforts on Sullivan Avenue, where the city spent $142,000 over the last two weeks on everything from trash collection to making nearly 90 arrests for drug crimes and prostitution.

A vigil is planned tonight for a beloved convenience store owner who was shot dead at his business. Meanwhile, a great-grandmother is recovering after a shooting in Linden that ended with the suspect flipping their car.

In Gahanna, police report a domestic violence incident where a woman was injured before a man turned a gun on himself.

The weather today calls for scattered showers with temperatures reaching the low 60s. We're looking at similar conditions throughout the week, with temperatures gradually warming to the upper 60s by Thursday and mid-70s by the weekend.

In sports news, Columbus Crew fans are preparing for an exciting matchup as Sam Surridge and Nashville visit Columbus following Surridge's impressive two-goal performance against Toronto.

An incredible story of longevity comes from our city as Moses Eldridge of Columbus marks his 108th birthday, making him the oldest surviving Army veteran in Ohio. When asked what it feels like to be 108, he simply grins and says, "Like an old man."

On the legal front, progress is being made in combating human trafficking in our area. Earlier this month, two members of a violent human trafficking ring from south Columbus were convicted of numerous felonies, including aggravated murder and trafficking in persons.

Housing remains a challenge across Ohio, but efforts in Columbus to address affordable housing shortages appear to be making a difference. Recent reports show a slight improvement in the deficit of affordable rental units compared to last year.

Looking ahead, the Memorial Tournament is set to feature top golfers as the prestigious event returns to Dublin. Meanwhile, Nationwide Children's Hospital continues its expansion throughout central Ohio suburbs, bringing specialized pediatric care closer to families in communities like Grove City and New Albany.

This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Saturday, May 24, 2025.

We're starting with breaking news from Whitehall where there's a positive update - a 1-year-old boy who was reportedly kidnapped by his non-custodial mother has been found safe. The AMBER Alert issued earlier has now been canceled according to Whitehall police.

At City Hall, Columbus City Council approved several significant measures during Monday's meeting. Councilmember Christopher Wyche sponsored an ordinance creating a cost-free way for drinking water customers to prove they don't have lead service lines, helping residents avoid costly inspections. The Council also approved a $75,000 grant agreement with Star House to fund youth advocates who support teens experiencing homelessness.

If you're looking for weekend activities, the Columbus Taco Fest takes over Goodale Park today and tomorrow with tacos, tequila, and live entertainment. The Columbus Asian Festival is also happening today from 10 AM to 8 PM, offering a celebration of Asian culture and traditions. Music lovers can catch the Columbus Symphony performing Britten War Requiem at the Ohio Theatre, continuing through today.

Weather-wise, we're looking at a pleasant Saturday with temperatures reaching 69 degrees - perfect for outdoor festivals. Tomorrow will be slightly warmer at 70 degrees.

In sports news, golf fans will be disappointed to learn that Rory McIlroy is skipping this year's Memorial Tournament, breaking his attendance streak that began in 2017.

A major development for healthcare access in our community - Ohio State University and Mid-Ohio Food Collective are partnering to open a comprehensive health care hub at Eastland. This facility aims to improve healthcare access for residents on the east side.

Traffic alert for commuters - ODOT is exploring new highway options in Delaware and Morrow counties to help ease congestion on US 23. Meanwhile, two people were injured in a crash involving semis and a minivan in Union County.

Local infrastructure improvements are coming our way - the City's 2025 Pavement Management Plan includes four major street projects, including total paving and subgrade replacement on 19th Street from Howard Boulevard to 45th Avenue and improvements to 25th Street from 35th to 37th Avenues.

A manhunt is currently underway for four escapees from a minimum-security correctional facility. Authorities are asking residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Friday, May 23, 2025.

Columbus police have released bodycam footage showing officers fatally shooting 37-year-old Jerry Smith after a domestic violence call escalated into a hostage situation. The two-hour standoff ended when officers intervened to protect a female hostage in northeast Columbus on Hampton Woods Court.

At City Hall, Mayor Andrew Ginther's proposal to establish a Division of Housing Stability is moving forward. The legislation, submitted to City Council earlier this month, allocates $525,000 for staffing and resources. The new division aims to prevent evictions and enforce fair housing policies as Columbus continues to face housing challenges. The measure is scheduled for a first reading at the upcoming council meeting.

Rain has been clearing out overnight, leaving us with considerably cooler temperatures this morning in the low to mid-40s. Some areas might even see upper 30s. The weather should improve throughout the day, perfect timing as we head into the holiday weekend.

Speaking of the weekend, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds us they'll be conducting high-visibility enforcement during the holiday. With millions traveling, they're emphasizing road safety to prevent accidents.

In business news, Johnson's Ice Cream has opened its ninth central Ohio location with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Pickerington. Meanwhile, Marcella's in the Short North will be temporarily closing for renovations but plans to reopen later this summer.

Columbus was recently ranked sixth among top U.S. cities for working moms in a new national study, highlighting our city's commitment to family-friendly policies and work environments.

The City Council has approved the 2025 Pavement Management Plan, greenlighting four street improvement projects. Work will include total paving and subgrade replacement on 19th Street from Howard Boulevard to 45th Avenue and on 25th Street from 35th to 37th Avenues. These projects are partially funded by voter-approved sales tax dollars.

In our crime report, authorities are searching for four escapees from a Columbus minimum security correctional facility. Additionally, police are investigating after a juvenile crashed a stolen vehicle into a utility pole during a chase in Whitehall that nearly injured an officer.

On a positive note, a Columbus mother who has waited nearly a year for justice in her son's murder case is receiving renewed attention from investigators, with Crime Stoppers offering rewards for information leading to an arrest.

This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Thursday, May 22, 2025.

We start our day with breaking news on the local housing front. Mayor Ginther has taken a big step forward by submitting legislation to City Council to create a Division of Housing Stability within Columbus’s Department of Development. This new division is set up with over half a million dollars allocated for staffing and resources, aiming to provide better support for tenants, strengthen fair housing enforcement, and expand services for families facing eviction. This move comes as affordable housing remains top of mind across our city, especially with the transformation of the historic downtown YMCA into affordable apartments now officially approved—a win for those seeking stability in the heart of Columbus.

Let’s shift to City Hall, where the City Council has also approved the 2025 Pavement Management Plan. We can expect improvements this year on streets like 19th Street from Howard Boulevard to 45th Avenue, and 25th Street between 35th and 37th Avenues. These projects focus on repairing aging roads, improving drainage, and making crossings safer for pedestrians—especially near schools. With 155 miles of city streets to maintain, every upgrade helps keep our daily commutes smoother.

In local health news, there’s an alert for anyone who attended the recent Shakira concert downtown. Public health officials are responding to concerns about possible measles exposures, with Columbus currently home to the majority of Ohio's cases. If you’ve been to large events lately and aren’t sure about your vaccination status, check in with your healthcare provider.

Switching gears to business and jobs, there’s a steady pulse in the Columbus market. While new openings in the Short North and along High Street continue to offer fresh options for dining and retail, residents are noticing rising prices in some areas. Job growth remains positive—unemployment in the city is holding steady below four percent, and the upcoming summer will bring more seasonal opportunities, especially in construction and hospitality.

Now to schools, where we celebrate a special achievement. During the Ohio FFA Convention held right here in Columbus, Superintendent Mike Von Gunten was honored with the highest state recognition for his support of agricultural education. His leadership is shaping the next generation of ag leaders in our region.

In sports, excitement is building for the Ohio State Buckeyes’ 2025 football season opener against Texas, which is sure to draw a big crowd to Ohio Stadium. Across town, local high school teams have wrapped up spring seasons with several making impressive playoff runs.

Columbus Police report a relatively quiet night. However, there was an arrest in connection to a recent deadly shooting, providing some relief to families impacted by gun violence. City leaders are continuing their push for new anti-violence initiatives aimed at making our neighborhoods safer.

Looking at the

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Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

Breaking news from Columbus overnight as a police officer was among two people injured in a three-vehicle crash that happened yesterday around 7:45 p.m. The cruiser sustained damage to its right side, and both the officer and another person were transported to the hospital. Thankfully, both are listed in stable condition as investigators continue looking into what caused the collision.

Another developing situation in northeast Columbus has police responding to a barricaded person inside a home. This follows a separate incident where an officer was reportedly shot at while responding to a disturbance, which led to what sources describe as a hostage situation. We're monitoring both situations closely.

Ohio State University trustees are gathering today at Longaberger Alumni House on Olentangy River Road for board meetings. The Wexner Medical Center Board meeting kicks off at 1 p.m., with sessions continuing through tomorrow. These meetings typically address major university developments and financial decisions.

Drivers should prepare for traffic slowdowns on the east side as crews begin restricting lanes on I-70 eastbound in western Franklin County. This pavement reconstruction project will continue through the end of 2025, so commuters may want to plan alternate routes.

The Columbus Division of Police reports they're expanding security efforts in the Short North this summer, addressing ongoing safety concerns in the popular district. This comes as the city continues addressing crime hotspots, including recent efforts along Sullivan Avenue where police made nearly 90 arrests during a two-week clean-up initiative.

Nationwide Children's Hospital continues its expansion into Columbus suburbs including Grove City and New Albany, bringing specialized pediatric care closer to families throughout central Ohio as the population grows.

In local arts news, if you're near The James Cancer Hospital, stop by the first-floor gallery to view artwork created by Ohio State health sciences students and employees. The exhibition rotates every eight weeks and showcases talent from within the medical community.

For local gardeners, Ohio strawberry crops are facing challenges from a fungal disease this season. Ohio State researchers are supporting local growers, but shoppers might notice fewer locally-grown strawberries at markets and farms.

Looking ahead, temperatures will reach the mid-60s today with partly cloudy skies – perfect for outdoor activities across the city. We're expecting slightly warmer conditions tomorrow with highs around 67 degrees.

This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

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