Kwanzaa celebrations begin in Columbus as local organizations host family-friendly events featuring music, storytelling, art, and cultural education at the King Arts Complex and beyond.
Community members gather at the King Arts Complex in Columbus to mark the beginning of Kwanzaa celebrations.
Kwanzaa Celebrations Begin in Columbus
Kwanzaa celebrations officially began Friday in Columbus, marking the start of a weeklong cultural observance centered on African heritage, unity, and community values.
Several local organizations are coming together to host inclusive, family-friendly events designed to introduce Kwanzaa traditions to the broader Columbus community.
“Kwanzaa was established in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga,” said performer and storyteller Oba William King. “Over the decades, it has grown beyond the United States and is now observed in many parts of the world as a celebration of culture, harvest, and shared values.”
King led a storytelling session Friday morning at the King Arts Complex, setting the tone for the upcoming two-day Kwanzaa 614 celebration. The larger event is being hosted by the Ohio History Connection in partnership with Tawi Family Village.
According to organizer Alona Edwards, each day of Kwanzaa highlights one of seven guiding principles, including unity, self-determination, and creativity, encouraging reflection and connection throughout the week.
“It is about honoring where we come from,” Edwards said. “In a community like this, sharing that history is important, so everyone has the opportunity to experience it.”
Kwanzaa-related events will take place at galleries and cultural spaces across Columbus throughout the week. More details and ticket information are available through Kwanzaa 614 and the Ohio History Connection.
For one Columbus man, Christmas will always mark the day he received a new heart and a second chance at life.
A Columbus man celebrates life years after receiving a heart transplant on Christmas Day at Ohio State’s Ross Heart Hospital.
A Christmas Heart Transplant That Changed One Columbus Man’s Life
Many people across central Ohio celebrated Christmas on December 25, but for one Columbus man, the holiday carries a deeply personal and life-changing meaning.
On Christmas Day in 2015, Dan Leite was given the ultimate gift — a new heart.
At just 50 years old, Leite learned he was suffering from cardiomyopathy, a serious condition that causes the heart muscle to weaken and scar over time. Doctors explained that his heart was gradually failing, leaving him with no choice but to undergo a heart transplant.
By October 2015, Leite was officially placed on the transplant waiting list. As the weeks passed, his condition worsened, and by mid-December, he had risen to the top of the list.
Then, on Christmas Eve, doctors at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center’s Ross Heart Hospital delivered life-changing news to Leite and his family — a donor heart had become available.
Leite’s surgery took place overnight, and at 12:07 a.m. on Christmas morning, his new heart began beating on its own.
For Leite and his wife, Emily who had been married just six months at the time the transplant marked a second chance at life together.
Since the surgery, Leite says he has been able to truly live again, reclaiming experiences and milestones that once felt uncertain.
The donor was a 20-year-old man whose decision to become an organ donor ultimately saved Leite’s life. While Leite remains profoundly grateful, he is also deeply aware of the grief carried by the donor’s family.
Leite has connected with them through social media and hopes to meet them in person, honoring both the sacrifice and the life that continues because of it.
Each Christmas now serves as a reminder, not only of survival, but of generosity, loss, and hope. Leite says he hopes his journey encourages those waiting for transplants to stay strong and inspires others to consider registering as organ donors.
Columbus Trash Pickup Schedule Delayed After Christmas and New Year’s Day
Holiday trash collection delays impact Columbus neighborhoods after Christmas and New Year’s Day
Columbus Trash Collection Schedule After Christmas and New year
The holidays may be over, but there’s still one task left for many Columbus residents—putting out the trash. If you are wondering when garbage will be collected after Christmas and New Year’s Day, the City of Columbus has adjusted its schedule due to back-to-back federal holidays.
Columbus operates on a color-coded trash collection system, and each federal holiday pushes pickup back by one day until the next holiday. With Christmas and New Year’s Day falling just a week apart, trash collection will be delayed twice as the city heads into the new year.
Trash Collection Schedule After Christmas
Because Christmas falls on Thursday, Dec. 25, only one collection zone will receive service the following day.
Thursday, Dec. 25: No trash collection
Friday, Dec. 26: Navy
Monday, Dec. 29: Pink
Tuesday, Dec. 30: Ruby
Wednesday, Dec. 31: Gold
Residents who are not assigned a color will also experience a one-day delay during the holiday week.
Recycling and yard-waste pickup will follow the same rule. If your scheduled collection day falls on or after the holiday, service will be delayed by one day, meaning Friday collections will occur on Saturday.
Residents unsure of their assigned pickup day are encouraged to check the city’s official trash schedule online.
Trash Collection Schedule After New Year’s Day
With New Year’s Day on Thursday, Jan. 1, trash pickup will again shift by one day across Columbus.
Thursday, Jan. 1: No trash collection
Friday, Jan. 2: Gray
Monday, Jan. 5: Navy
Tuesday, Jan. 6: Pink
Wednesday, Jan. 7: Ruby
Thursday, Jan. 8: Gold
What About Central Ohio Suburbs?
Several Central Ohio communities will also see changes to their trash schedules:
Grove City: Trash pickup may be delayed by one day
Upper Arlington: One-day delay for residents who normally have Thursday collection
New Albany: Trash, recycling, and yard waste delayed by one day during both holiday weeks
Bexley & Pickerington: Updated schedules available through Rumpke
Trash collection will not be affected by the holidays in Dublin, Gahanna, Hilliard, Westerville, and Whitehall.
1 person was killed in a Christmas Eve crash in west Columbus near Roberts Road and Windflower Road East, according to Columbus police.
Police investigate a fatal crash that occurred Christmas Eve in west Columbus.
Christmas Eve Crash in West Columbus Leaves 1 Dead
One person has died following a traffic collision that occurred on Christmas Eve in west Columbus.
The Columbus Division of Police reported that the crash took place at the intersection of Roberts Road and Windflower Road East, just east of Hilliard-Rome Road, at approximately 12:54 p.m. on Wednesday afternoon.
Authorities said an adult driving a 2002 Chevrolet Suburban was traveling south on Windflower Road and attempting to turn east onto Roberts Road when the vehicle was struck by a 2013 Chevrolet Silverado traveling westbound on Roberts Road. The impact occurred within the intersection.
The driver of the Chevrolet Suburban was transported to a nearby hospital, where they were later pronounced dead in the emergency room. No other injuries were reported at the scene.
The Columbus Police Accident Investigation Unit responded and has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. No additional information has been released at this time.
The Catholic Diocese of Columbus has excused Mass attendance through Jan. 11 as ICE operations increase fear within immigrant communities during Christmas.
Bishop Earl Fernandes announced a temporary Mass dispensation for the Catholic Diocese of Columbus during heightened ICE enforcement.
Columbus Bishop Excuses Mass Attendance Amid ICE Operations
The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Columbus has announced a temporary exemption allowing parishioners to miss Mass during the Christmas season amid increased activity by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Central Ohio.
In a letter shared on social media on December 23, Bishop Earl Fernandes said heightened immigration enforcement in the Columbus Diocese has created widespread fear and anxiety within immigrant communities. According to the bishop, the presence of federal agents near Catholic churches and schools has contributed to a climate of concern rather than peace during the holiday season.
The dispensation relieves individuals from the obligation to attend Mass and holy days of obligation through January 11. It applies to anyone who fears possible detention, regardless of immigration status.
Bishop Fernandes said local parishes have already experienced a significant decline in attendance at Mass and pre-Christmas church activities. He attributed the drop to ICE’s ongoing “Operation Buckeye,” noting that many families are avoiding not only church services but also workplaces due to fear.
“People are afraid to go to church and even to work,” Fernandes stated, warning that continued fear could result in economic hardship for families and shortages of essential goods, including food.
While reaffirming his support for law enforcement efforts focused on serious and violent crime, the bishop appealed for compassion during the Christmas season. He urged those enforcing immigration laws to avoid actions that could unnecessarily separate families during the holidays.
Churches across the Diocese of Columbus will remain open, the bishop said, but he encouraged parishioners to use good judgment when deciding whether to attend services. He also asked those who are able to attend Mass to pray for individuals who feel unsafe doing so.
“Our churches are meant to be places of hope, peace, and welcome for all people,” Fernandes said, emphasizing the church’s role as a refuge during times of uncertainty.
Ohio Gas Prices Drop Ahead of Holiday Travel: Columbus Drivers See Significant Savings
Columbus drivers enjoy lower gas prices just in time for holiday travel, with prices averaging $2.52 per gallon.
Ohio Gas Prices Drop Ahead of Holiday Travel
After several weeks of fluctuating prices, gasoline costs in Ohio have seen a notable decrease, just in time for the holiday travel season.
A recent survey conducted by GasBuddy across 500 stations in Columbus and nearby areas revealed that gas prices dropped by 33.7 cents from last week, averaging $2.52 per gallon. This represents a decline of 37.9 cents per gallon compared to four weeks ago and a staggering 67.8 cents per gallon lower than the same period last year.
Columbus Gas Price Highlights
The cheapest gas station in the Columbus area reported a price of $1.99 per gallon, while the most expensive reached $3.99 per gallon, marking a $1.00 difference.
Statewide, Ohio’s average gas price fell by 22.8 cents, now averaging $2.57 per gallon.
Nationally, gas prices declined for the fourth consecutive week, averaging $2.79 per gallon, while diesel prices also decreased slightly to $3.575 per gallon.
Understanding Price Cycling
Patrick De Haan, GasBuddy’s Head of Petroleum Analysis, notes that lower gas prices are expected to continue nationwide during the holiday season.
“Oil prices are under pressure due to increased production from the U.S., Canada, and OPEC+, coupled with near-record refinery output – all of which are likely to keep gas prices low in the coming weeks,” De Haan explained.
Emergency responders investigate a reported shooting on Columbus’ Near East Side.
2-Year-Old Critically Injured in East Side Shooting
A 2-year-old child was critically injured in a reported shooting at a residence on Columbus’ Near East Side on the evening of December 22.
The incident was reported at approximately 8:38 p.m. in the 1500 block of East Long Street near Parkwood Avenue. A Columbus Police confirmed the location and time of the call but did not provide additional details. Requests for comment from Columbus Division of Police spokespersons have not yet been answered.
Radio traffic indicated that the child’s grandmother heard a gunshot inside the home and immediately contacted emergency services.
Columbus Fire Division medics arrived at the scene and began life-saving efforts before transporting the toddler to Nationwide Children’s Hospital. The child’s condition has not been officially released.
Authorities have not shared further information as the investigation continues.
This is a developing story. Updates will be published as more details become available.
James Ransone, best known for his role as Ziggy Sobotka on HBO’s The Wire, has died at age 46, according to the medical examiner.
James Ransone portrayed Ziggy Sobotka in HBO’s critically acclaimed series The Wire.
James Ransone, ‘The Wire’ Actor, Dies at 46
Actor James Ransone, widely recognized for his role on HBO’s acclaimed series The Wire, has died at the age of 46, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. Officials said the death is under investigation and has been reported as an apparent suicide.
Ransone rose to prominence in the early 2000s, making his television debut in 2002 before gaining national recognition a year later in the second season of The Wire. He portrayed Ziggy Sobotka, a troubled dockworker whose storyline became one of the show’s most memorable arcs.
Following his breakout role, Ransone built a steady career across television and film. His television appearances included Law & Order, Burn Notice, and Hawaii Five-0. He also appeared in major films such as It: Chapter Two, where he played Eddie Kaspbrak.
His film credits further included Sinister, The Black Phone, and the HBO miniseries Generation Kill, highlighting his versatility across drama, thriller, and horror genres.
In a 2016 interview with Interview Magazine, Ransone spoke openly about past struggles with addiction, discussing the challenges he faced earlier in his life and career.
Born in Baltimore in 1979, Ransone later studied at The School of Visual Arts in New York City before pursuing acting full time.
He is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two children.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the U.S., the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers confidential support 24/7.
Protest Against ICE Continues in Columbus as demonstrators rally against ICE enforcement
Protest Against ICE Continues in Columbus amid growing opposition to ICE operations.
Protest Against ICE Continues in Columbus
The protest against ICE continues in Columbus as community members rally against increased immigration enforcement activity across central Ohio.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed that 10 individuals were arrested as part of Operation Buckeye, an enforcement surge that began on December 16. According to ICE, those taken into custody are from India, Somalia, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico, and are alleged to be in the United States without legal authorization.
ICE Director Todd M. Lyons said the agency operates in Ohio regularly but recently deployed additional resources under Operation Buckeye. Officials say arrests made since January 20 include individuals accused or convicted of offenses such as drug possession, burglary, robbery, assault, disorderly conduct, DUI, and attempted abduction. ICE added that several of those detained had long-standing final orders of removal.
As enforcement continues, the protest against ICE continues in Columbus, with demonstrations reported across multiple neighborhoods. On Sunday night, protesters gathered outside the Cambria Hotel in Polaris, voicing opposition to ICE’s presence in the city. Similar protests were reported Saturday near the Embassy Suites in the Westerville area, where ICE agents were believed to be staying.
Demonstrators organized under the slogan “No Sleep for ICE”, using car horns, music, and bells in an effort to disrupt ICE personnel. Organizers said the protests will continue nightly until ICE leaves Columbus.
Earlier Sunday, hundreds of people gathered at Westerville Skatepark, marching through nearby streets while chanting and holding signs demanding an end to what they describe as aggressive immigration enforcement. Many protesters said the ongoing activity has created fear and uncertainty among immigrant families.
Several residents expressed concern that increased ICE operations are impacting community safety and family stability. Protesters emphasized that immigrants are neighbors, workers, and taxpayers who contribute to the local economy and culture.
The demonstrations were organized by the Columbus chapter of the Party for Socialism and Liberation, which encouraged residents to document public interactions involving ICE agents. Organizers said recording encounters helps promote accountability and awareness of individual rights.
Issa Ibrahim Mahat, Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, A New Dawn for Ijara Constituency
Issa Ibrahim Mahat: A New Dawn for Ijara Constituency | 2027 General Election
Ijara Constituency is witnessing the rise of a new leadership era, one defined by accountability, experience, and a deep commitment to public service. Among the most notable emerging leaders is Issa Ibrahim Mahat (popularly known as Wakili), a young yet highly accomplished professional positioning himself as a strong contender for Member of Parliament, Ijara Constituency, in the 2027 general election in Kenya.
With strong community roots and a clear development-driven vision, Issa represents a fresh and credible alternative for constituents seeking effective national representation.
A Distinguished Legal Career with National Impact
Issa Ibrahim Mahat is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and the Founder and Managing Partner of Issa Mahat & Company Advocates. Since being admitted to the Bar in 2016, he has built a reputation anchored on integrity, professionalism, and service to the public.
His national appointments reflect confidence in his leadership and expertise:
Secretary, Capital Markets Tribunal (2020): In this role, Issa supported dispute resolution and regulatory oversight within Kenya’s financial markets, a position requiring impartial judgment and high ethical standards.
Technical Committee Member, Building Bridges Initiative (BBI): Appointed in January 2020, he actively participated in nationwide public engagement forums, gaining firsthand insight into grassroots concerns, governance reform, and national cohesion.
These roles sharpened his understanding of governance, policy-making, and citizen-centered leadership.
Academic and Professional Foundation
Issa’s leadership journey is reinforced by a solid legal education:
Kenya School of Law – Postgraduate Diploma in Law (2014)
University of Nairobi – Bachelor of Laws (LL.B), Honours (2012)
His academic background has shaped his firm belief in justice, accountability, and the rule of law as essential drivers of sustainable development.
Community Endorsement and Cultural Legitimacy
In Ijara’s cultural context, endorsement from maternal uncles and respected elders carries profound significance. Issa enjoys strong backing from his maternal uncles, community elders, and key stakeholders who view him as disciplined, grounded, and ready for leadership.
This support underscores his strong upbringing, moral standing, and acceptance across generational lines within the community.
Why Issa Ibrahim Mahat Stands Out for Ijara 2027
Youthful Energy with Proven Experience Issa brings a rare balance of dynamism and national-level exposure.
Effective Advocate for Community Needs He understands Ijara’s challenges and is prepared to pursue impactful legislation.
Champion of Unity and Inclusive Development His BBI (BuildingBridges Initiative) experience strengthened his commitment to cohesion and shared progress.
Strong Governance and Accountability Focus His legal and regulatory background equips him to safeguard public resources.
Clear Development Agenda for Ijara His vision prioritizes infrastructure, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and economic growth that benefits every household.
A New Dawn for Ijara
Dalmar TV recognizes Issa Ibrahim Mahat as part of Kenya’s emerging generation of leader’s professionals who combine competence, humility, and a genuine desire to serve.
Backed by elders, embraced by the youth, and guided by a strong ethical foundation, Issa enters the 2027 race as more than a candidate. He represents renewal, hope, and forward-looking leadership for the people of Ijara.
