Tense standoff as ICE agents raid Glass House Farms in Ventura County, sparking protests and arrests.
ICE Agents Raid California Cannabis Farm – Protesters Clash in Ventura County
Chaos erupted as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents carried out a surprise raid at Glass House Farms, one of California’s largest legal cannabis operations.
The facility, located on Laguna Road in Ventura County, was swarmed by federal agents shortly after 11:00 a.m. The greenhouse was quickly sealed off with yellow tape labeled “U.S. Border Patrol”, marking the site of a rapidly escalating confrontation.
Eyewitnesses reported a clash between armed ICE officers and more than 100 demonstrators, including farmworkers, family members, and activists who arrived to protest the operation.
Tensions flared as smoke bombs were deployed, and several individuals were detained during the confrontation. The situation grew volatile, with tactical units in full gear facing off against a growing crowd of supporters demanding transparency and justice.
This unexpected federal raid has stirred fresh concerns about immigration enforcement tactics, particularly within legal cannabis operations that often rely on immigrant labor.
Marion Police stress online safety after locating missing 11-year-old in Indiana.
11-Year-Old Found in Indiana Following Online Interaction with 45-year-old man
Columbus, Ohio – An urgent reminder for parents in Ohio: Marion Police are highlighting the growing dangers of unsupervised online activity after an 11-year-old boy with autism went missing early Thursday morning and was later found safe in Indiana.
Authorities say the child had been communicating with a 45-year-old man he met through an online video game. The boy disappeared between 1:30 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. from his home on Congress Street, near Bellefontaine Avenue. Thankfully, he was located in Indiana and safely reunited with his family. Charges against the man are expected in Marion County.
B.J. Gruber, Operations Commander of the Marion Police Department, stated:
“This is a strong reminder for all parents to stay actively involved in their children’s digital lives. Online interactions may not always be what they seem.”
The incident underlines the critical need for online safety awareness among parents and caregivers. Predators are increasingly using advanced technology, including AI-generated images and fake profiles, to gain children’s trust.
Online Safety Advice for Parents
Hannah Swift of Gracehaven, a nonprofit in Upper Arlington, emphasized that children often seek connection online — a factor that can make them targets.
“Some predators disguise themselves as kids. They use technology to appear younger or sound more believable,” Swift said.
Protect Your Child Online:
Regularly monitor your child’s device activity
Talk openly about online risks
Set parental controls and privacy filters
Encourage your child to report suspicious interactions
This case had a fortunate ending, but police warn that not all outcomes are the same. Building trust and open communication with your child is the best defense.
“To all parents, be aware of what your kids are doing online, and create a space where they feel safe coming to you,” Gruber concluded.
Police investigate a deadly shooting near Target on Polaris Parkway in Columbus, Ohio.
Joseph Suiter Shot Dead Near Polaris Parkway: 19-Year-Old Arrested in Columbus, Ohio
Polaris, Columbus, ohio – A tragic incident unfolded Wednesday evening near Polaris Parkway as Columbus police arrested 19-year-old Elijah Roberts in connection with a fatal shooting that claimed the life of 26-year-old Joseph Suiter.
Authorities were dispatched around 6:15 p.m. to the parking area outside the Target store at 1485 Polaris Parkway after receiving reports of a shooting. Responding officers discovered Suiter inside a vehicle, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead on the scene by 6:19 p.m.
Initial investigations suggest that the incident began near The Garden at Polaris Apartments on Royal Gold Drive, just a short distance from the Target store. According to Sgt. Joseph Albert of the Columbus Division of Police, the shooting likely resulted from a dispute, possibly related to a drug deal.
The suspect reportedly fled into a wooded area nearby but was later identified by witnesses. On Thursday morning, Columbus SWAT officers apprehended Roberts at a nearby residence. He is currently being held at the Delaware County Jail and faces aggravated murder charges.
Officials emphasized that the shooting did not occur inside the Target store or its parking lot. “This is still considered a very safe shopping district,” Sgt. Albert stated, reassuring the public that police presence remains strong in the area.
South-Western City Schools teachers and union members show solidarity during the July board meeting in Columbus, Ohio.
South-Western City Schools in Ohio Approves New Contracts with Teachers and Superintendent
Columbus, Ohio – In a significant move for public education in Central Ohio, South-Western City Schools—one of the largest school districts in the Columbus metro area has finalized new contracts for its educators and top leadership.
On July 10, members of the South-Western Education Association (SWEA) ratified a three-year agreement that includes annual salary increases and key benefits improvements. Later that evening, the district’s Board of Education unanimously approved the contract, marking a major step forward in labor relations and educational investment.
Key Contract Highlights:
Salary Increases:
Year 1: 3.3% raise
Years 2 & 3: 3% raise each year
Starting Salary:
New base for teachers with a bachelor’s degree is now $50,290, up from $46,000.
Top Salary:
Educators with a master’s degree, additional credits, and 24 years of service can now earn nearly $114,000.
Beyond pay, the contract includes:
Class-size caps
Parental leave improvements, allowing up to 12 weeks of sick leave for birthing parents
Lower premiums for family health coverage
Recognition of the workload associated with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
The contract negotiations required a mediator for the first time since 2013, reflecting the tense nature of discussions. SWEA represents over 1,600 professionals, including teachers, psychologists, and speech therapists.
Emmalee Harding, the union’s spokesperson, praised the agreement as a win for both staff and students, highlighting the community’s role in preserving the district’s educational values.
Superintendent and Administrator Contracts Approved
The board also approved a new five-year contract for Superintendent Randy Banks, who began his tenure on August 1, 2024. His salary of $265,000 will increase annually in line with the teachers’ contract, reaching $273,745 in the first year.
Administrators represented by the South-Western Administrators’ Association (SWAA) will also receive similar annual increases, though specific salary ranges were not immediately disclosed.
Board President Chris Boso described the agreement as “fair and necessary” to retain top teaching talent. Meanwhile, board meetings leading up to the decision were marked by public demonstrations and community involvement, with hundreds of union supporters attending a key meeting on June 9.
Negotiations are ongoing with the union representing non-instructional staff, according to district spokesperson Meredith Ackerman.
Abdull Yussuf Haji receives support from the Somali diaspora in Columbus for Garissa Governor leadership.
Abdull Yussuf Haji for Governor Garissa County – Backed by the Somali Diaspora in Columbus
Columbus, Ohio – From Eastleigh’s humble beginnings to the streets of Columbus, London, and Dubai, the Somali diaspora is uniting behind a name that represents legacy, honor, and vision — Abdull Yussuf Haji.
This movement is not just political, it’s a generational call to service, rooted in the legacy of his late father, Yussuf Haji. A true Kenyan statesman, Yussuf Haji left an indelible mark across decades of public service, from the colonial era through presidencies including Moi, Kibaki, and Uhuru Kenyatta. A legacy unmarred by corruption, his influence helped shape the very fabric of Kenya’s governance.
Today, that torch of dignity is carried by Abdull. More than just a candidate, Abdull Yussuf Haji is a continuation of moral leadership. His family’s legacy in national security and public service speaks volumes — with his brother serving in Kenya’s National Intelligence Service and Abdull championing development in Garissa.
The Somali community in Columbus sees this moment as historic. Abdull stands not for politics as usual, but for transformation: infrastructure growth, job creation, and a return to dignity for Garissa residents. His name is synonymous with trust — in a region that yearns for authentic leadership.
Garissa is already witnessing calm and opportunity return — a sign of good things to come. The Somali diaspora proudly stands behind Abdull Yussuf Haji, a leader chosen not by chance, but by character and calling.
For those still consumed by division or rivalry, the message from Columbus and beyond is clear: This is not a moment for envy. It is a time for visionary change.
Abdull Yussuf Haji is not just ready — he is the future.
Let history remember: Garissa’s turning point began when its people and the Somali diaspora stood with Abdull Hajji.
Floodwaters block roadways across Licking County after severe storms on July 9.
One Rescued as Flash Floods Shut Down Roads Across Licking County, Ohio
Several roads across Licking County were shut down Tuesday following intense thunderstorms that unleashed heavy rainfall and flash flooding throughout the area.
Sean Grady, Director of the Licking County Emergency Management Agency, confirmed that emergency crews rescued a motorist in Heath whose vehicle became stranded in approximately two feet of floodwater. The incident was one of many across the county, as officials responded to numerous reports of street-level flooding.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Wilmington had issued a flash flood warning earlier in the day for Licking County, noting radar-indicated storms producing between 1.5 and 3 inches of rain. The flash flood warning remained in effect until 6:45 p.m.
The hardest-hit region was the Hanover area in eastern Licking County, where several roads became impassable due to rising stream waters. However, no emergency calls were made regarding property damage from the flooding, according to Grady.
The NWS forecasted additional rainfall totals ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 inches into the evening hours.
Residents are advised to exercise caution when traveling, avoid water-covered roads, and stay updated via local emergency services.
Kazimer Dec recounts being attacked by two pit bulls outside his East Columbus home.
Kazimer Dec Seeks Justice After Brutal Pit Bull Attack in Columbus
Columbus, Ohio – A Columbus resident is recovering after being viciously attacked by two loose pit bulls in his own backyard, marking one of several serious dog attacks reported this summer in Franklin County.
Kazimer Dec had just finished mowing a neighbor’s lawn and was storing away his mower when he turned around to the terrifying sight of two pit bulls charging at him. The dogs, belonging to nearby residents, began to lunge aggressively.
“They slammed me into the fence and tried to pull me down. I fought back, punching them, but they wouldn’t stop,” Dec recalled. “Eventually, I climbed on top of my car to escape.”
From atop the vehicle, Dec watched in horror as the dogs attacked a woman riding her bicycle and then turned on another neighbor.
Columbus police soon responded, fatally shooting one of the dogs while the other fled. Dec was left severely wounded and bleeding.
“At that moment, all I could think about were my three kids and our newborn baby. I didn’t know if I was going to survive,” he said.
He was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent treatment for 23 stitches and 49 bite wounds and lacerations. He spent two and a half days recovering.
According to Franklin County Animal Control, four people were injured in the Friday night attack. At least three victims were hospitalized, though their conditions remain unclear.
The second dog was captured the next day and is currently held at the county shelter. Authorities are still working to identify and locate the dogs’ owner. The investigation remains active.
“This has changed our life,” said Dec. “Our kids used to play outside. Now we have to escort each one to the car. I don’t even want to live here anymore.”
This incident is part of a disturbing rise in dog attacks in the Columbus area. In response, Ohio lawmakers are pushing forward with legislation aimed at holding negligent dog owners accountable.
Avery’s Law, named after a Reynoldsburg girl who was attacked by pit bulls last year, has passed the Ohio House. The proposed law would empower animal control officers to seize a dog after its first offense and would allow judges to determine the dog’s fate. It also introduces stricter penalties for irresponsible pet owners.
As survivors like Dec seek justice, the Columbus community continues to debate the urgent need for stronger animal control laws and safer neighborhoods.
Sherri Smith of East Columbus speaks out on rising property taxes affecting her daily life.
Ohio Homeowners Demand Relief from Rising Property Taxes
Columbus, Ohio – For over 25 years, Sherri Smith has cherished her home in East Columbus. But in the last decade, she has seen her property taxes nearly double—now paying $600 every six months. The increasing financial strain has forced tough choices at the grocery store and beyond.
“I just want to buy food without putting things back because I can’t afford them,” she shared.
Her frustration mirrors that of many Ohio homeowners. A grassroots movement is now gaining traction to eliminate property taxes in Ohio entirely. Backed by nearly 1,000 volunteers, the group is working to place a constitutional amendment on the 2026 ballot that would make Ohio property taxes $0 for homeowners.
“We have gathered petitions from 76 of Ohio’s 88 counties,” said Brian Massie, part of the five-member organizing committee.
The initiative argues that property taxes unfairly burden seniors and low-income families, threatening the dream of homeownership. “People are waking up to the fact that we are basically renters to the government,” Massie said, criticizing Ohio’s current property tax model based on unrealized home value gains.
Though the group missed the July 2 deadline to qualify for the 2024 ballot, they remain committed to the 2026 goal. “We are not backing down. We believe in freedom through homeownership,” Massie emphasized.
While the group supports alternative taxes—like sales tax, income tax, or service-based fees—they face opposition. Governor Mike DeWine voiced concern that eliminating property taxes could cripple school funding and essential public services like fire and police departments.
Smith herself, while sympathetic, worries about the consequences. “I want relief, but not if it means hurting our schools and services. That’s not acceptable to me,” she said.
Just last week, Governor DeWine vetoed property tax relief provisions in the state budget, citing risks to education funding. However, the Ohio House of Representatives is scheduled to meet July 21 to consider overriding those vetoes.
As this battle continues, Ohio homeowners wait—hoping for a solution that balances relief with responsibility.
Aura Nightclub in Columbus remains closed after a court ruling and a deadly double shooting.
Franklin County Judge Closes Case Against Aura Nightclub in Downtown Columbus
A Franklin County judge has closed the City of Columbus’ legal case against Aura Nightclub, formerly known as Avalon, nearly a year after a deadly shooting led to its shutdown. The judge ruled that the nightclub is in “substantial compliance,” but did not clarify what this means for the property’s long-term status.
Aura has been shuttered since December 2023 after the tragic shooting that claimed the lives of security guards Ceilin Smith (36) and Desmond Taylor (27). Both men were working at the club when they were fatally shot. Jaquez Hoover was arrested and charged with their murders.
Columbus police revealed the club had been the subject of 28 separate crime-related reports in 2023, including fights and incidents involving firearms.
Ceilin Smith’s daughter, Jalyne Smith, has expressed concern about the club’s potential reopening.
“Keeping the club shut feels like a step toward justice,” said Jalyne. “Even a heartfelt apology would mean a lot to our family.”
While the judge’s decision closes the city’s case, the nightclub’s future remains in limbo.
Ohio State Troopers deploy to Texas to support flood recovery efforts after deadly July 4th weekend storms.
Gov. Mike DeWine Dispatch Ohio State Troopers to Texas After Deadly July Fourth Flooding
In a show of interstate solidarity, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced on Monday that 20 state troopers and K-9 search teams are being deployed to Texas to support emergency response efforts after devastating flash floods killed at least 89 people during the July Fourth weekend.
The floods hit central Texas especially hard, with Camp Mystic in Kerr County confirming the tragic loss of 27 campers and staff members. Heavy rains caused a wall of water to tear through the century-old camp on Friday, leaving widespread destruction in its wake.
Search crews have recovered 75 bodies in the Texas Hill Country, including 27 children, with an additional 14 deaths reported across other regions of Texas. With more rainfall predicted, the risk of further life-threatening flooding remains high.
Gov. DeWine emphasized the importance of supporting Texas first responders, who have been working around the clock since the disaster began.
“By sending in our teams from Ohio, we can support recovery work and give some relief to the Texas first responders who have been working nearly nonstop,” DeWine said.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Mobile Field Force will assist with traffic control, humanitarian relief, and search and recovery operations. K-9 teams from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources will focus on river basin search zones where victims may still be missing.
Major David Brown, who is leading the Mobile Field Force, said the mission’s goal is to bring hope and closure to the affected families.
“Our biggest hope is that we can bring calm to chaos,” Brown stated. “We are ready to adapt to Texas’ needs on the ground.”
The Ohio teams are expected to remain in Texas for 7 to 9 days, with full operations starting Wednesday morning.
Brown added,
“It makes me proud to know the caliber of troopers we have in Ohio—individuals ready to put their lives on hold to help others in crisis.”
Ohio’s Mobile Field Force has previously responded to major disasters, including Hurricane Katrina and Ohio’s own deadly tornado outbreak in 2024.
