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Ohio Ends Driverโ€™s License Suspensions for Unpaid Fines โ€“ Hereโ€™s What You Need to Know

Ohio driverโ€™s license and law changes affecting suspensions
An end to driving license suspensions for unpaid finesโ€”helping thousands regain their freedom to drive!

Ohio Ends Driverโ€™s License Suspensions for Unpaid Fines โ€“ Hereโ€™s What You Need to Know

Thousands of Ohio drivers are set to regain their licenses thanks to a new law taking effect on April 9, 2024.

In a major win for Ohioans, the state is ending the practice of suspending driverโ€™s licenses for unpaid court fines and minor infractions. Under this law, individuals who previously lost their licenses due to unpaid fees will now have the opportunity to get them reinstatedโ€”helping them return to work, drive their children to school, and regain their independence.

What the New Ohio Law Means for You

House Bill 29, passed in December with overwhelming support in the Senate (31-0) and House (84-6), was officially signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine in January. The bill ensures that:

  • No more suspensions for unpaid fines or fees โ€“ Ohio joins 24 other states in ending debt-related license suspensions.
  • Automatic reinstatement for past suspensions โ€“ If your license was suspended for unpaid fines before this law, youโ€™ll be eligible to have it reinstated.
  • No reinstatement fees โ€“ Affected individuals will not have to pay to get their licenses back (unless there were additional suspensions for other offenses).
  • Relief for parents with child support-related suspensions โ€“ Those who can prove that losing their license has prevented them from making payments may be granted limited driving privileges.


According to the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland, 60% of license suspensions in Ohio were not related to unsafe driving. Many individuals found themselves in a cycle where they couldnโ€™t work without a valid license, yet couldnโ€™t afford to pay the fines needed to reinstate it.

“This bill is smart, practical policy,” said Patrick Higgins, Policy Council for the ACLU of Ohio. “A personโ€™s ability to pay should not determine whether they can drive.”

What Happens Next?

Within 30 days of the law taking effect, eligible individuals will be notified with instructions on how to reinstate their licenses. This law not only benefits individuals but also strengthens Ohioโ€™s workforce, providing businesses with a larger pool of employees.

โ€œThis bill takes a significant step toward giving more people a chance to work,” said Jill Rizika, CEO of Towards Employment. “Our community thrives when more people have access to economic opportunities.โ€

How to Reinstate Your License

If your license was suspended due to unpaid fines, check your mail for official instructions or visit the Ohio BMV website for updates.

This groundbreaking law is a step toward a fairer systemโ€”helping hardworking Ohioans move forward without the burden of unnecessary suspensions. Spread the word and make sure your friends and family know about this important change!

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The Spectrum: Ohio Faces DOGE Budget Cuts Amid Local Response to Higher Education Legislation

Ohioans react to DOGE budget cuts and Senate Bill 1's impact on higher education โ€“ The Spectrum report.
The Spectrum covers Ohioโ€™s response to DOGE budget cuts & upcoming education reforms.

The Spectrum: Ohio Faces DOGE Budget Cuts Amid Local Response to Higher Education Legislation

Big changes are happening at the federal and state levels, and Ohio is feeling the impact.

Elon Muskโ€™s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is making deep cuts across federal agencies, and organizations in Ohio are starting to feel the strain. What does this mean for businesses, institutions, and local communities?

Ohioโ€™s Higher Education System Could See a Major Shake-Up โ€“ Senate Bill 1 is on the verge of passing, bringing sweeping reforms to public colleges and universities. Hear from an Ohio State professor on the potential consequences.

Experts Weigh In โ€“ Republican strategist Will Hinman and Democratic strategist Joe Rettof break down the DOGE budget cuts, the future of Ohioโ€™s education system, and former President Trumpโ€™s controversial push to impeach federal judges.

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Chris Boynton and Teri Caulin-Glaser Join Columbus Zoo and Aquariumโ€™s Leadership Team

Chris Boynton and Dr. Teri Caulin-Glaser join the board of directors at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to support its mission of wildlife conservation.
Chris Boynton and Dr. Teri Caulin-Glaser bring their leadership expertise to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium board, helping shape its conservation goals.

Chris Boynton and Teri Caulin-Glaser Join Columbus Zoo and Aquariumโ€™s Leadership Team

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is excited to announce its newest board members, Chris Boynton and Dr. Teri Caulin-Glaser, who will help guide the zooโ€™s future initiatives in wildlife conservation and community education. With their impressive leadership backgrounds, both individuals are set to play an instrumental role in advancing the zoo’s mission and strategic direction.

Dr. Teri Caulin-Glaser, Senior Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer at OhioHealth, brings a wealth of experience in healthcare leadership to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium board. Chris Boynton, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Battelle, adds his financial expertise to the team. Their appointments come as part of the 2025-2026 leadership updates for the zooโ€™s 19-member board.

The full Columbus Zoo and Aquarium board leadership for the 2025-2026 term includes:

  • Chairperson: Dan Gusty, Johnson Investment Counsel
  • Vice Chairperson: John H. McConnell II, Worthington Industries
  • Secretary: Adriana Hastings, Huntington National Bank
  • Treasurer: Brent Jackson, Fifth Third Bank
  • Immediate Past Chairperson: Katie Wolfe Lloyd, The Dispatch Printing Company

Tom Schmid, President and CEO of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, expressed his enthusiasm for the new additions to the board. He highlighted how Boynton and Caulin-Glaserโ€™s experience will significantly contribute to the zooโ€™s ongoing efforts to inspire and protect wildlife.

Boynton shared his excitement about joining an iconic institution like the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, noting that both the zoo and Battelle are celebrating their 100-year anniversaries. “Itโ€™s a privilege to be part of such a remarkable organization with a rich history,” Boynton said. “I look forward to supporting Tom and the team in advancing the zooโ€™s important work.”

As a nonprofit organization, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium relies on its board members to help shape its strategic vision, ensuring it continues to be a leader in wildlife conservation and public education. The addition of Boynton and Caulin-Glaser marks an exciting new chapter for the zoo as it prepares for the future.

Stay connected with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium for more updates on its wildlife preservation efforts and community outreach programs.

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ShotSpotter in Columbus: How Hidden Microphones Detect Gunshots in Seconds

A ShotSpotter sensor mounted on a Columbus light pole, used for detecting and pinpointing gunfire in real time.
ShotSpotter technology deployed in Columbus to detect and locate gunfire instantly.

ShotSpotter in Columbus: How Hidden Microphones Detect Gunshots in Seconds

Across Columbus, hundreds of discreet microphones are mounted on light poles, buildings, and street intersections. While nearly invisible, these devices serve a crucial public safety roleโ€”they arenโ€™t listening to everyday conversations but are instead detecting gunfire in real time.

How Columbus Uses ShotSpotter to Combat Gun Violence

Since 2019, Columbus has relied on ShotSpotter, a gunshot detection system developed by SoundThinking, a California-based public safety technology company. Over 170 cities across the U.S. use this AI-powered tool to help law enforcement respond swiftly to gun-related incidents.

ShotSpotter is often integrated with city surveillance cameras and license plate readers, allowing police to track and investigate gun violence more effectively.



How ShotSpotter Works: Detecting & Pinpointing Gunfire

  • When a gun is fired in a designated coverage area, ShotSpotterโ€™s advanced microphones detect the sound.
  • The system uses artificial intelligence to analyze the noise and determine if it was a gunshot.
  • ShotSpotter then triangulates the exact location of the shot.
  • Trained analysts in California review the audio, confirming details like the type of firearm used and whether there were multiple shooters.
  • Within 60 seconds, an alert is sent to Columbus police officers and emergency dispatchers via a mobile app and in-car data terminals.

This rapid process ensures police often receive notifications before any 911 calls are made. According to Columbus officials, 88% of gunshots go unreported, compared to a national average of 80%.

Faster Response Saves Lives

“Many shootings go unreported, leading to missed opportunities to assist gunshot victims,” says Thomas Chittum, Senior Vice President of Forensic Services at SoundThinking. “In gunshot cases, every second counts.”

By using math, science, and technology, ShotSpotter helps Columbus enhance public safety, reduce gun violence, and improve emergency response times.

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When is Easter 2025? Everything You Need to Know

Easter 2025 โ€“ A sunrise over a cross symbolizing the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025.
Easter 2025: Celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ on April 20, 2025.

When is Easter 2025? Everything You Need to Know

Easter is one of the most significant Christian holidays, yet its date changes every year, making it a bit tricky to track. If you’re wondering when Easter Sunday will be in 2025 and why its date varies annually, we’ve got all the answers.

When is Easter Sunday 2025?

In 2025, Easter Sunday will be observed on April 20.

When is Good Friday 2025?

Good Friday, which commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, always falls on the Friday before Easter. In 2025, Good Friday will be on April 18.

Why Does Easter Change Dates Every Year?

Unlike Christmas, which is celebrated on December 25 annually, Easter follows a complex system based on a combination of lunar cycles and ecclesiastical rules.

You might have heard that Easter is determined by the full moon, but it’s not that simple. The date is based on the paschal full moon, which is not always the same as the actual full moon. Hereโ€™s how it works:



How is Easterโ€™s Date Determined?

According to the U.S. Naval Observatory, Easter is calculated using these rules:

  1. The ecclesiastical vernal equinox is always set on March 21 (even though the actual vernal equinox can occur between March 19 and 21).
  2. The paschal full moon falls on the 14th day of the lunar month, which starts with a new moon.
  3. Easter Sunday is observed on the first Sunday following the paschal full moon that occurs on or after March 21.

Because of these calculations, Easter can fall on any Sunday between March 22 and April 25 each year.

Easter is a movable feast with deep historical and religious significance. Now that you know when Easter falls in 2025 and how its date is calculated, you can plan ahead for celebrations, family gatherings, and religious observances.

For more updates on holiday dates and traditions, stay tuned!

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Ohio Man, Kahary Sentenced to Decades in Prison for Brutal Murder of Girlfriend and Abuse of Child

Kahary Sentenced to Prison for Murder of Girlfriend and Abuse of Child
Kahary Sentenced to 39 Years in Prison for the Brutal Killing of His Girlfriend and Abuse of Her Child.

Ohio Man, Kahary Sentenced to Decades in Prison for Brutal Murder of Girlfriend and Abuse of Child

Kahary Sentenced to a lengthy prison term after pleading guilty to the horrific murder of his girlfriend, Susane, and the abuse of her 10-year-old child. The 22-year-old man was convicted of aggravated murder, felonious assault, and gross abuse of a corpse for his violent actions that occurred in December of the previous year.

Details of the Crime: The tragic events unfolded when local authorities performed a wellness check on Susane, 46, after she was reported missing. Police found her young son alone at home, with his motherโ€™s body discovered inside her car, parked in the garage. Authorities later confirmed that Susane had been deceased for several weeks.

Kaharyโ€™s Violent Actions: The investigation revealed that Kahary, Susane’s boyfriend, and the victim had a violent confrontation in the garage. He punched and choked her until she lost consciousness. Despite the initial assault, Susane remained alive, and Kahary forced her back into the house, where she later died from continued abuse.

During this attack, Kahary also assaulted the child, striking him with a small shovel to silence him. He then coerced the child into helping move Susaneโ€™s body into the car, misleading him into thinking his mother was still alive and needed medical attention.

Weeks later, the child confessed to his parents, which led to the police investigation. The authorities determined that Susane had been dead for weeks before the confession came to light.

Emotional Impact and Sentence: The victimโ€™s family expressed their heartbreak at the sentencing, with one family member saying, โ€œHe should never have to hug his dead mother, put her in the car with her murderer, or play dead while laying in his own blood.โ€

Kahary Sentenced to 39 years in prison before being eligible for parole. This sentence reflects the brutal nature of the crimes committed, and the emotional trauma inflicted on both the victim and her child.

Takeaway: This case highlights the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the long-lasting impact it has on victims and their families. The investigation emphasizes the importance of wellness checks and intervention in abusive situations to prevent such tragic events.

Stay informed with updates on criminal cases, justice proceedings, and sentencing in Ohio.

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Columbus Man, Yelon Shepherd Arrested for Robbing Brinks Employee in Valleyview – Franklin County Sheriff’s Office

Yelon Shepherd Arrested After Robbing Brinks Employee in Valleyview
Columbus Man, 21, was arrested by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office after robbing a Brinks armored vehicle employee in Valleyview.

Columbus Man, Yelon Shepherd Arrested for Robbing Brinks Employee in Valleyview – Franklin County Sheriff’s Office

The Franklin County Sheriffโ€™s Office has arrested a man accused of snatching a bag full of cash from a Brinks armored vehicle employee in Valleyview.

Yelon Shepherd, 21, faces serious charges of robbery and felony theft following the incident that occurred early Wednesday morning. Deputies responded to a call about a man who stole a money bag from an employee of the Brinks armored delivery service.

The employee was in the process of servicing an ATM at a store located on the 2800 block of Valleyview Drive when Shepherd approached, grabbed the bag of cash, and fled the scene. Despite the employeeโ€™s attempt to chase after him, Shepherd managed to escape in a dark Ford SUV, the sheriffโ€™s office reported.

Later that evening, around 11:30 p.m., authorities tracked Shepherd down and arrested him. He is now being held at the Franklin County Jail.

Shepherd appeared for an arraignment hearing on Friday morning at the Franklin County Municipal Court. The judge set his bond at $20,000 in cash and imposed a condition preventing him from returning to the store involved in the robbery.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Franklin County Sheriffโ€™s Office Detective Bureau at 614-525-3351.

Stay tuned for further updates as this case develops.

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New Albany Roundabout at Main and Market Streets to Close This Weekend for Gas Line Maintenance

New Albany Roundabout closure for gas line repair at Main and Market Streets this weekend.
The New Albany Roundabout at Main and Market Streets will temporarily close for gas line repairs this weekend. Stay updated on detours and roadwork times.

New Albany Roundabout at Main and Market Streets to Close This Weekend for Gas Line Maintenance

Columbia Gas will be conducting essential repairs to a gas main, which will result in a temporary road closure in New Albany this weekend. Here’s everything you need to know:

Closure Details:

  • Location: Main Street (U.S. 62) at the Market and Main Streets roundabout in the heart of New Albany.
  • Affected Lane: The northbound lane through the roundabout will be closed.
  • When: The closure will take place on Saturday and Sunday. Work begins at 7 a.m. Saturday and will continue until midnight. The road will be reopened overnight before work resumes on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. for final repairs.
  • Southbound Lane: The southbound lane will remain open throughout the weekend.

Detours and Updates: To minimize disruptions, the city will implement detours and post message boards along the route to keep drivers informed of any updates or changes. Make sure to follow posted signs to navigate around the closure.

This necessary repair work is part of ongoing efforts to maintain safe and reliable gas service. Plan your routes accordingly and allow extra time for travel.

Stay informed for any further updates on this closure, and be prepared for changes in traffic flow.

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Whitehall Moves to Protect Immigrant Rights and Gender-Affirming Care

Whitehall City Council discusses new resolutions to protect immigrant rights and expand access to gender-affirming care.
Whitehall is taking action to protect immigrant rights and ensure access to gender-affirming care, making the city a safer and more inclusive place for all residents.

Whitehall Council Moves to Protect Immigrant Rights and Gender-Affirming Care

Whitehall is taking significant steps to uphold the rights of transgender and nonbinary individuals by ensuring they can use restrooms in city buildings that align with their gender identity. Additionally, the city is working to prevent local resources from being used in federal mass deportations while strengthening protections for immigrants and individuals seeking gender-affirming health care.

During a recent City Council meeting, Council Member Amy Harcar introduced two resolutions aimed at safeguarding immigrant rights and designating Whitehall as a safe haven for gender-affirming medical care.

Harcar explained that her initiative was inspired by similar efforts in other communities. Her goal is to create an environment where immigrants and individuals seeking gender-affirming care feel safe and respected in Whitehall. To ensure these measures effectively address community needs, Harcar will collaborate with another council member and local residents to gather feedback. Whitehall residents interested in contributing can reach out via email at [email protected].

Key Aspects of the Proposed Resolutions

  1. Immigrant Rights Protection
    • Whitehall will not use local resources to enforce federal immigration laws or aid in mass deportations.
    • Immigrants and refugees, regardless of status, will be treated with dignity and fairness.
    • The city will provide essential servicesโ€”such as food, healthcare, education, and housingโ€”to all residents, irrespective of immigration status.
    • Language access services will be available to help immigrant communities engage in civic life.
  2. Support for Gender-Affirming Healthcare
    • Whitehall will ban conversion therapy within city limits.
    • Transgender and nonbinary individuals will have the right to use restrooms that align with their gender expression in city buildings.
    • The city will protect legal access to gender-affirming healthcare.
    • No person or organization will face criminal prosecution or penalties for providing or receiving gender-affirming care.

While there is no set timeline for when these resolutions will go before the full City Council for a vote, Whitehall is actively working to shape policies that foster inclusivity, safety, and equal rights for all.

Stay updated on Whitehallโ€™s progress and share your thoughts by reaching out to [email protected].

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Former Humane Agent Sentenced to Over 15 Years for Animal Cruelty and Fraudulent Pet Rehabilitation Scheme

Humane agent Steffen Baldwin sentenced to prison for animal cruelty and fraudulent dog rehabilitation scheme.
Former Union County Humane Society executive director Steffen Baldwin sentenced for animal cruelty and fraud involving euthanized dogs.

Former Humane Agent Sentenced to Over 15 Years for Animal Cruelty and Fraudulent Pet Rehabilitation Scheme

Steffen Baldwin, the former executive director of the Union County Humane Society, has been sentenced to 15ยฝ years in prison after being convicted of a disturbing scheme that exploited pet owners and rescue groups. Baldwin, 44, promised to rehabilitate dogs or find them new homes for a fee, but instead kept the payments for personal gain and euthanized the animals without permission.

Baldwin was found guilty of 32 charges, including animal cruelty, theft, bribery, and other serious offenses, following a January 2024 trial. In addition to his lengthy prison sentence, Baldwin is permanently banned from owning or caring for any animals.

Presenting himself as a compassionate dog lover with a 99% success rate in rehabilitating challenging dogs, Baldwin lured pet owners and rescue groups into trusting him. However, he never fulfilled his promises. Instead, he lied about the status of the animals in his care, often claiming they were doing well, when in reality, he had them euthanized. Many of these dogs were perfectly healthy, but Baldwin misled their owners for months, leaving them in the dark.

One heartbreaking case involved Remi, a 3-year-old pit bull. The Kargakos family from No Fear Rescue entrusted Baldwin with Remi, who had been labeled a “dangerous dog” after two bite incidents. Baldwin assured them that he could remove this designation for $1,000. However, after receiving the payment and taking Remi into his custody, Baldwin made no effort to follow through on his promise and, instead, euthanized the dog in December 2016, falsely claiming Remi had been severely injured in a dog fight.

Baldwin also deceived the Blue Chip Rescue group regarding a dog named Gucci, telling them that Gucci was happily adopted when, in fact, the dog had been euthanized months earlier.

Arrested in August 2020, Baldwin faced 42 felony charges related to the deaths of at least 18 dogs. He will serve time in prison and remain under post-release control (parole) for up to five years upon his release.

This case serves as a grim reminder of the importance of trusting responsible, transparent animal care professionals and the devastating consequences of exploitation in the pet care industry.

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