Tuesday, May 20, 2025
Home Blog

City of Columbus and Property Owners Held in Contempt Over Eastland Mall Property

City of Columbus and Property Owners Held in Contempt Over Eastland Mall Property
City of Columbus and property owners face court action for violating orders on Eastland Mall property.

City of Columbus and Property Owners Held in Contempt Over Eastland Mall Property

Columbus, Ohio – A Franklin County judge has found the City of Columbus and the property owners of the abandoned Eastland Mall in contempt of court. This ruling follows the approval and hosting of an unauthorized event on the Eastland Mall site, which was explicitly prohibited by a prior court order.

Judge Stephanie Mingo confirmed that despite a ban on any events at the property, the City of Columbus Building and Zoning Department approved a permit for a carnival held on the Hamilton Road site last week. The mall property, currently undergoing demolition, was observed with carnival equipment and attractions being set up.

The court has also held the property owners, IGWT and Eastland Mall Holdings, responsible for violating the court order. An environmental specialist appointed by the court discovered at least eight unsecured entry points, raising serious safety concerns for the community.

Local residents, including Mary Ellen Crutcher, have expressed worry over the safety of children and community members, especially as multiple children were seen attempting to enter the partially demolished property illegally.

Judge Mingo emphasized the seriousness of the violation, stating that the actions of the city and property owners have deeply shaken the court. She plans to issue further rulings on sanctions and penalties soon.

In response, Scott Messer, assistant director of the Columbus Department of Building and Zoning Services, issued a statement assuring the public that the department values its collaboration with the Environmental Court and will take internal measures to prevent such errors in the future.

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the safety and security of the Eastland Mall property and the responsibilities of city officials and property owners in protecting the community.


Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Memorial Day 2025 – Honoring U.S. Heroes and Marking the Start of Summer in Columbus, Ohio

Memorial Day 2025 – Honoring U.S. Heroes and Marking the Start of Summer in Columbus, Ohio
Honoring U.S. Heroes and Marking the Start of Summer in Columbus, Ohio

Memorial Day 2025 – Honoring U.S. Heroes and Marking the Start of Summer in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio – Memorial Day 2025 is just around the corner, bringing with it a deep sense of remembrance and the unofficial kickoff to summer. While it’s often associated with BBQs, family time, and the reopening of pools, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the holiday’s true meaning.

When Is Memorial Day in 2025?

Memorial Day will be observed on Monday, May 26, 2025. Since the passing of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1971, it’s been held on the last Monday of May, allowing for a three-day weekend of both reflection and recreation.

Why Do We Observe Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring the men and women of the U.S. military who died in service. Originally called Decoration Day, this tradition began in 1868 when the Grand Army of the Republic organized tributes to fallen Civil War soldiers by adorning their graves with spring flowers.

Over time, the holiday evolved to recognize all military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice. It officially became a national holiday in 1971.

What Will Be Closed on Memorial Day 2025?

As a federal holiday, the following will be closed on May 26, 2025:

  • U.S. post offices and federal buildings
  • Ohio state offices, including the BMV
  • Most banks
    Some private businesses and retail stores may operate on adjusted hours. It’s best to check with individual establishments in Columbus for their Memorial Day schedule.

Full List of 2025 Federal Holidays:

Christmas – December 25

New Year’s Day – January 1

Martin Luther King Jr. Day – January 20

Presidents’ Day (Washington’s Birthday) – February 17

Memorial Day – May 26

Juneteenth – June 19

Independence Day – July 4

Labor Day – September 1

Columbus Day – October 13

Veterans Day – November 11

Thanksgiving – November 27


Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

New Albany Church Leader’s Son Indicted on Additional Sexual Abuse Charges in Knox County, Ohio

New Albany Church Leader’s Son Indicted on Additional Sexual Abuse Charges
Tom Keesee Jr. now faces 32 felony charges related to alleged sexual abuse in Knox County, Ohio.

New Albany Church Leader’s Son Indicted on Additional Sexual Abuse Charges in Knox County, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio – Tom Keesee Jr., 36, the son of prominent New Albany church leaders Gary and Drenda Keesee, faces new sexual abuse charges after a Knox County grand jury issued a superseding indictment on May 19. The latest indictment includes two additional counts of rape and three additional counts of gross sexual imposition, increasing the total number of felony charges against Keesee to 32.

Back in April 2025, Keesee was first indicted on 27 felony charges involving rape, gross sexual imposition, and unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. Multiple women have since come forward, alleging Keesee groomed and abused them during their childhoods, with one accuser — a family member — publicly sharing her experience on social media.

According to court filings, some of the alleged abuse began as early as 2001, when one victim was just five years old, and continued over 50 instances through 2023 at a Mount Vernon, Ohio residence.

Keesee is being held at Licking County Jail on a $2 million bond, with his trial anticipated to draw significant public and media interest due to his high-profile connections to the New Albany megachurch.


Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Two Injured in Southeast Columbus Stabbing Incident Sunday Evening

Two Injured in Southeast Columbus Stabbing Incident Sunday Evening
Police at the scene of a stabbing in Southeast Columbus on Sunday evening.

Two Injured in Southeast Columbus Stabbing Incident Sunday Evening

Columbus, Ohio – Two individuals were injured following a stabbing in Southeast Columbus on Sunday evening, according to the Columbus Division of Police. Officers responded to the scene at approximately 5:30 p.m. on the 1800 block of Marlyn Lane after receiving reports of a violent altercation.

Emergency medical services transported both victims to Grant Medical Center. One person remains in critical condition, while the second is reported to be in stable condition.

At this time, authorities have not released information regarding any suspects or what may have led to the incident. The investigation is ongoing.

Stay tuned for any updates on this case .


Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Columbus Drops to 15th Largest U.S. City as Charlotte Surpasses in Latest Census Update

Columbus Drops to 15th Largest U.S. City | 2024 Population Report
Columbus Drops to 15th Largest U.S. City | 2024 Population Report

Columbus Drops to 15th Largest U.S. City as Charlotte Surges Ahead

Columbus, Ohio – After holding the 14th spot for eight years, Columbus drops to 15th largest U.S. city, according to the latest 2024 population estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. The shift comes as Charlotte, North Carolina, experiences a faster growth rate and surpasses Columbus in total population.

As of July 1, 2024, Columbus had an estimated 933,263 residents, reflecting a 1.4% increase (12,694 new residents) over the previous year. Meanwhile, Charlotte saw a more substantial growth of 23,423 residents, bringing its total to 943,476.



Central Ohio Growth Still Strong

Despite the drop in national ranking, Columbus and the broader Central Ohio region continue to grow steadily:

  • Franklin County reached 1,356,303 residents, up by 17,400 people.
  • The Columbus metropolitan area—which spans 10 counties—added 30,348 residents, totaling 2,225,377 people.

Why Columbus Remains a Population Leader

Columbus’ surprisingly high population ranking is due in part to its historical annexation policies, which allowed it to incorporate large portions of suburban Franklin County. As a result, it remains the second-largest city in the Midwest, trailing only Chicago, and ahead of cities like Detroit and Minneapolis.

While the rest of Ohio may be facing long-term population decline, Columbus is growing. The Ohio Department of Development predicts a statewide population drop of 675,000 by 2050. However, projections from the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) show that the Columbus region could gain up to 726,000 people by 2050—with possibilities ranging from 1.6 million new residents to a slight population decline, depending on future trends.

Columbus may have slipped one place in national rankings, but its growth trajectory, economic strength, and regional development tell a story of continued momentum.


Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Ohio Governor Orders Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Cleveland Fire Cadet Symeon Williams

Ohio Governor Orders Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Cleveland Fire Cadet Symeon Williams
Ohio flags lowered to half-staff to honor Cleveland Fire Cadet Symeon Williams

Ohio Governor Orders Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Cleveland Fire Cadet Symeon Williams

Columbus, Ohio – In a solemn gesture of respect, Governor Mike DeWine ordered that all U.S. and Ohio state flags be flown at half-staff to honor Cleveland Fire Cadet Symeon Williams, who tragically passed away following a medical emergency during training.

The directive, announced on May 17, applies specifically to Cuyahoga County, the Ohio Statehouse, Vern Riffe Center, and the Rhodes State Office Tower. However, other public buildings across Ohio may lower their flags at their own discretion.

This tribute will remain in effect until sunset on the day of Cadet Williams’ funeral, the date of which is yet to be announced.



Who Can Order Flags at Half-Staff?

Only the Governor of a state or the Mayor of Washington, D.C. has the authority to lower flags to half-staff for official periods of mourning.

Why Are Flags Lowered to Half-Staff?

Flags are flown at half-staff to honor the death of public servants, including military personnel, firefighters, and government officials, or during periods of national grief, such as Memorial Day, Patriot Day, or Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.

Half-Staff vs. Half-Mast: What’s the Difference?

Half-staff is used for flags on land, while half-mast refers to those on naval vessels. While terminology differs, both honor fallen heroes and national tragedies.


Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Breeze Airways Launches Seasonal Non-Stop Flights from Columbus to Portland, Maine

Breeze Airways jet on runway at John Glenn Columbus International Airport
Breeze Airways begins non-stop seasonal flights between Columbus, OH and Portland, ME.

Breeze Airways Launches Seasonal Non-Stop Flights from Columbus to Portland, Maine

Columbus, Ohio – Get your lobster bibs ready—Breeze Airways launches seasonal non-stop flights from Columbus to Portland, Maine, making it easier than ever for Central Ohio travelers to access the beautiful New England coast.

Starting Friday, May 2, Breeze Airways began operating a new non-stop service from John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) to Portland International Jetport (PWM) in Portland, Maine. This seasonal flight runs every Monday and Friday and is scheduled to continue through December 1, 2025, according to the Columbus Regional Airport Authority.

With this addition, John Glenn and Rickenbacker International Airports now offer direct flights to 52 destinations, boosting Columbus’ position as a convenient hub for both domestic and international travel.


Plan Ahead: REAL ID Required for Travel Starting May 7, 2025

Before booking your next flight, make sure you are compliant with upcoming TSA regulations. Beginning May 7, 2025, passengers must present a REAL ID or another federally approved identification to board domestic flights.

What is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a secure, federally compliant driver’s license or identification card. In Ohio, REAL IDs have a star in the upper right-hand corner. Licenses marked “Not for Federal ID” will not be accepted for air travel starting in May 2025.

How to Get a REAL ID in Ohio

To obtain a REAL ID at any Ohio BMV location, you will need:

  • Proof of full legal name
  • Date of birth
  • Legal U.S. presence
  • Social Security number
  • Two documents verifying your Ohio street address
  • Proof of name change (if applicable)

Avoid last-minute hassles and check your current license to ensure it meets the REAL ID standards.


Why This Flight Matters

This new route offers:

  • Convenient access to Portland’s coastlines, seafood, and scenic attractions
  • A budget-friendly option for seasonal travelers
  • Additional connectivity between Ohio and the Northeast

Whether you are planning a summer vacation, business trip, or weekend getaway, Breeze Airways’ seasonal non-stop service brings flexibility and ease to your travel plans.


Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost Pulls Out of Governor Race

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost pulls out of governor race, Vivek Ramaswamy gains GOP edge
Dave Yost ends governor campaign, boosting Vivek Ramaswamy’s chances in the Ohio GOP primary.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost Pulls Out of Governor Race

Columbus, Ohio – In a major political shift, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has officially pulled out of the 2025 governor race, a decision that positions biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy as the leading Republican candidate.

Yost, who has served as Ohio’s top legal officer since 2019, ended his campaign after the Ohio Republican Party endorsed Ramaswamy. In a heartfelt message to supporters, Yost explained that continuing his bid had become a “vertical cliff” rather than a “steep climb.” He added, “I do not wish to divide my political party or my state over small differences in vision.”

This announcement follows the Ohio GOP’s formal backing of Ramaswamy last week — a candidate already enjoying national exposure from his 2024 presidential campaign and an endorsement from President Donald Trump.

Although Ramaswamy now stands alone in the Republican primary, the race might heat up again. Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel, a beloved former Ohio State football coach, is reportedly considering a run, with strong support from Gov. Mike DeWine.

Dave Yost will continue serving as Attorney General through January 2027 and hinted at potential future political aspirations: “I suspect this is not my final chapter.”

For real-time updates on Ohio political races, stay tuned


Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Central Ohio Severe Weather Forecast May 16, 2025

Storm clouds over Columbus skyline ahead of Central Ohio severe weather forecast May 16 2025
Heavy clouds gather over Central Ohio as severe weather is forecast for May 16, 2025.

Central Ohio Severe Weather Forecast May 16, 2025

Columbus, Ohio – Central Ohio Severe Weather Forecast May 16 2025: Tornadoes, Flash Flooding & Strong Winds Expected

Severe weather is expected to impact Central Ohio on Friday, May 16, 2025. According to the National Weather Service, the region could experience damaging winds, large hail, flash flooding, and even tornadoes as powerful storms develop during the afternoon and evening hours.

The central Ohio severe weather forecast for May 16 2025 includes risk zones across Franklin, Union, Madison, Pickaway, and Fairfield counties, where hazardous conditions could affect travel and outdoor plans.

Friday Forecast Highlights:

  • Afternoon (After 1 PM): Slight chance of showers and thunderstorms under partly sunny skies. High near 85°F.
  • Evening to Midnight: Thunderstorms likely before 1 a.m., continuing into early morning. Wind gusts may reach 26 mph.
  • Rainfall: Up to 0.25 inches, possibly more in storm zones.

Weekend Outlook:

Saturday, May 17:
Partly sunny and breezy. A few early showers are possible. High near 73°F. Gusts up to 32 mph.

Sunday, May 18:
Sunny and calm with highs near 75°F.

Next Week Preview:

  • Monday: Partly sunny, high of 70°F.
  • Tuesday-Wednesday: Increasing rain chances (up to 80%), with thunderstorms likely. Highs in the mid-60s.

Residents are advised to monitor local weather alerts and take precautions ahead of Friday’s severe conditions.


Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News

Giant Eagle Brings Back Plastic Bags to Most Columbus Stores

Giant Eagle store exterior in Columbus, Ohio, during transition to new plastic bags.
Giant Eagle brings back plastic bags made of 75% recycled material in Columbus.

Giant Eagle Brings Back Plastic Bags to Most Columbus Stores

Columbus, Ohio – After a year of promoting reusable fabric bags, Giant Eagle brings back plastic bags to most Columbus stores, citing poor customer adoption and sustainability concerns.

The grocery chain initially introduced reusable fabric bags in May 2024, but according to a company spokesperson, many were discarded after a single use and could not be recycled. As a result, Giant Eagle has decided to reintroduce plastic bags made from 75% recycled material.

These new eco-conscious bags, designed to reduce environmental impact, will be available at all Columbus Giant Eagle stores except the Bexley Market District Express, where a city-wide ban on plastic bags remains in effect. Giant Eagle is currently working with Mayor Ben Kessler to navigate compliance with local and state laws in Bexley.

This move reflects the challenge of aligning sustainability efforts with customer habits and municipal regulations.


Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News