Somali Independence Day Grove City, West side Ohio
Join the Somali community in Columbus, Ohio, for a vibrant celebration of Somali Independence Day 2025 on June 28th from 4 PM to 10 PM at 4500 Big Run South Rd, Grove City, OH 43123.
This family-friendly event features a full lineup of entertainment including Somali Bantu cultural dance, live performances by Safiya Tusmo, Al Fanaan Bimalo, Al Fanaan J King, and Abdinur Daljir, and exciting kids’ activities like inflatables and obstacle courses.
Organized by the Community Initiative for Social Service Organization and Dalmar TV, this cultural festival brings together community members, leaders, and sponsors in a celebration of unity, freedom, and heritage.
For more information, contact: 📞 Abdihakim Abdirahman at (614) 596-8136 📞 Shafi Shafat at (614) 772-8631
Come celebrate Somali culture, enjoy authentic entertainment, and connect with your community!
Fatal Multi-Vehicle Crash Shuts Down I-70 Near Reynoldsburg
Fatal Multi-Vehicle Crash Shuts Down I-70 Near Reynoldsburg -One person dead, one injured
A deadly multi-vehicle crash occurred in the early hours of June 26 on Interstate 70 near Brice Road, just south of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, resulting in one fatality and another person being hospitalized.
According to the Columbus Division of Police, officers responded to reports of a collision at approximately 1:49 a.m. Two individuals were taken to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. Sadly, one of the victims succumbed to their injuries and was pronounced dead at 3:02 a.m. The second victim is currently in stable condition.
The crash involved multiple vehicles, causing significant traffic disruption. I-70 was temporarily closed as emergency responders secured the scene and cleared the wreckage. The highway has since reopened to traffic.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. Updates will follow as more details become available.
Judge Hejmanowski shares the consequences of unsafe driving during a Columbus juvenile court session.
Columbus Judge Launches Delaware County teen driving program
In Delaware County’s juvenile traffic court, teens accompanied by their parents stand before Judge David Hejmanowski each week to face consequences for low-level traffic offenses—such as speeding, failing to stop, or minor accidents. Most will lose their licenses for about a month, face fines, and earn a stern warning from the veteran judge.
But this is not just about punishment. Judge Hejmanowski keeps a sobering list with him—names of local teens who lost their lives in traffic crashes over the past five years. “It is much too long,” he tells them, urging more careful driving.
To help prevent future tragedies, Hejmanowski is spearheading a new teen driver safety initiative using $30,000 from the county’s title fund. Launching this July, the program will offer hands-on advanced driving skills—such as maneuvering on icy roads, reacting to unexpected obstacles, and mastering safe habits behind the wheel.
The goal? To reduce juvenile traffic incidents before they escalate into fatal accidents. In 2023, 90% of the 685 juvenile traffic cases involved minor misdemeanors—like seatbelt violations or fender benders.
By partnering with experienced teen driver education providers, like Better Ohio Teen Drivers, the court will offer reduced license suspensions in exchange for program participation.
This proactive approach is fueled by years of heartbreaking experience. As Judge Hejmanowski explains, it’s often minor errors that lead to devastating outcomes—like a simple overcorrection on a gravel road or hitting a patch of black ice.
“I have seen too many promising lives cut short,” he said. “I am done watching youth die in preventable crashes.”
This innovative program puts Columbus and Delaware County on the map for pioneering teen traffic safety reforms—and saving lives before tragedy strikes.
Attendees speak with financial advisors and explore housing options at the 2025 Columbus Homebuyer Resource Fair
Columbus Homebuyer Resource Fair Empowers Residents with Tools for Affordable Homeownership
Columbus, Ohio – In the face of rising home prices, many aspiring homeowners in Columbus, Ohio, feel like their dream of owning a home is slipping away. But a recent Homebuyer Resource Fair aimed to change that narrative.
Organized in collaboration with Fifth Third Bank, the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA), and COCIC-Franklin County Land Bank, the event served as a community-focused initiative to equip residents with essential tools for navigating the path to homeownership.
Attendees were invited to sit down with financial advisors, explore personalized planning options, and gather valuable information to begin their homebuying journey. A standout feature of the fair was the Fifth Third eBus—a mobile financial empowerment center offering on-the-spot financial education, access to social services, and banking tools.
“It’s all about finding a reliable advisor—whether it’s your bank or another expert—who can guide you through setting realistic homeownership goals,” explained Mary Propes, Financial Wellness Manager at Fifth Third Bank.
Propes emphasized that even those not quite ready to buy can benefit by setting long-term goals for the next one to five years. Contrary to common belief, a massive savings account isn’t always necessary—but strategic planning is.
One attendee, Justina Brown, shared how the event helped her begin the homebuying process with clarity.
“Understanding credit and where to access resources is crucial. This event showed me we have help—I just need to use it,” she said.
The Ohio Housing Finance Agency also unveiled its 2025 First-Time Homebuyer Guide, outlining essential steps such as consulting a lender, budgeting realistically, hiring a real estate agent, and preparing for hidden costs like inspections and insurance.
Propes offered a final tip:
“Just because you’re approved for a certain amount doesn’t mean you should spend it all. Consider your full financial picture—including everyday expenses.”
Residents can continue accessing Fifth Third Bank’s mobile eBus services at upcoming stops this week:
June 25: Lower Lights Health Center (10 AM – 4 PM)
June 26: Student Success Block Party @ Clarence Lumpkin Point of Pride (4 PM – 7 PM)
June 27: IMPACT Community Action (9 AM – 4 PM)
For many in Franklin County, events like this mark a new chapter in their journey toward affordable homeownership.
Vice President J.D. Vance addresses supporters at a sold-out Ohio Republican event in Lima
Vice President JD Vance Delivers Powerful Keynote at GOP Dinner in Lima, Ohio
Lima, Ohio – Vice President JD Vance made a notable return to his home state of Ohio on Tuesday, where he headlined the Ohio Republican Party’s sold-out dinner in Lima. Over 1,000 GOP leaders and grassroots conservatives from across the state gathered for what was dubbed an “evening of support.”
Vance began with light humor, referencing global affairs, before delving into serious topics such as U.S. military strategy, recent airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, and President Trump’s commitment to preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
He outlined the “Trump Doctrine”, emphasizing America’s need to define its interests, engage in tough negotiations, and, if required, apply overwhelming military force to protect national security.
The Vice President also addressed pressing issues like illegal immigration, border security, and the economic implications of Trump-era tariffs.
Born in Middletown, Ohio, Vance’s inspiring life journey from a troubled youth to becoming a best-selling author, venture capitalist, U.S. Senator, and now Vice President, resonated strongly with attendees.
His 2016 memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy”, which became a national bestseller, significantly influenced his political rise, cementing his relationship with the Trump family. With support from Donald Trump, Vance returned to Ohio, focused on fighting the opioid crisis, and launched a political career that led to his 2021 Senate victory—powered by Trump’s endorsement.
Now as Vice President of the United States, Vance continues to share his conservative vision for America and remains deeply connected to Ohio’s political landscape.
Ballantrae residents attend Dublin City Council meeting to oppose rezoning for the West Innovation District
Dublin City Council postpones rezoning vote
Dublin, Ohio – The Dublin City Council has once again delayed a vote on rezoning parts of the city’s southwest side, where a large-scale innovation district is planned. The proposed West Innovation District could feature data centers, office buildings, and warehouses on land that currently includes some of Dublin’s last remaining farmland.
At a packed meeting on June 23, more than 100 residents—many from the nearby upscale Ballantrae neighborhood—gathered in protest, with several giving public testimony. They voiced concerns about increased traffic, noise, environmental impact, and reduced property values. Residents also criticized the city’s communication efforts and questioned whether the project aligns with Dublin’s suburban character.
In response, the council unanimously voted to postpone the decision until August 11. It’s the second time the ordinance has been delayed, after an earlier tabling in April.
Councilmembers stressed they are listening to feedback and evaluating changes to city development codes to address resident concerns. “If you think we’re sacrificing Dublin’s quality of life, you’re wrong,” said Councilmember John Reiner.
The proposed West Innovation District includes more than 1,600 acres of land, with 888 acres zoned for industrial office use and 738 for innovation-related development. The city has been working on the district since 2017 and recently purchased 243 acres for $44.6 million as part of the plan.
While the city has held meetings with residents of Ballantrae and Washington Township, concerns remain high. Many locals say the plan risks turning Dublin into something it was never meant to be.
Columbus Police to deploy new Bell 505 helicopters by December 2025
Columbus Police Invest $6M in Quieter, Modern Helicopters to Enhance Public Safety
Columbus, Ohio – The Columbus Division of Police is upgrading its helicopter fleet for the first time in over a decade, with the City Council approving the purchase of two advanced Bell 505 helicopters for nearly $6 million. This upgrade marks a major milestone in the department’s 10-year plan to replace aging aircraft—some dating back to 2006—with quieter, more efficient models that meet today’s safety and technological standards.
Deputy Chief Robert Sagle, who oversees the Air Support Unit, emphasized that the new helicopters will reduce noise and improve response capabilities. He likened the current aircraft to “trying to function in 2025 using an iPhone 3.” With the addition of these helicopters, the department will increase its operational fleet to five.
The move was approved unanimously by the Columbus City Council on June 23, with officials stressing that the goal is not expanded surveillance, but safer, more effective policing. The helicopters are used for tracking suspects, assisting fire emergencies, and locating missing persons.
The decision comes amid ongoing community conversations since the 2020 protests, with leadership making significant adjustments in helicopter usage—reducing flights over residential areas and grounding helicopters when not urgently needed.
Assistant Chief Lashanna Potts told the council that community concerns influenced the new strategy. In fact, the newer Bell 505 models are smaller and generate less noise than the previous Bell 407GXi model, which the city bought and later sold after discovering it lacked essential law enforcement features.
The new helicopters will arrive by December 2025, replacing the oldest MD530F aircraft in the fleet. The city anticipates saving around $800,000 by locking in 2024 pricing before costs rise in 2026.
Emergency crews respond to a fiery tanker crash on I-270 in Northeast Columbus. Roads remain closed as officials assess the scene.
Columbus Police searching for black pickup truck after tanker truck fire that closed I-270
Columbus, Ohio – A serious crash involving a fuel tanker and a black pickup truck shut down both directions of Interstate 270 on the Northeast Side of Columbus, Ohio, on the afternoon of June 22, 2025.
According to the Columbus Division of Police, the incident occurred at approximately 1:39 p.m. when the driver of a black pickup truck lost control while exiting from southbound I-270 to eastbound State Route 161. The vehicle collided with a tanker truck hauling fuel, forcing it into a guardrail. The impact caused the tanker to overturn and burst into flames.
Emergency crews quickly responded to the scene, and the Columbus Division of Fire was able to contain the blaze shortly after arrival. Witnesses reported the fire around 1:40 p.m., and thick black smoke was visible for miles.
The tanker truck driver was transported to OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital in stable condition. However, the pickup truck driver fled the scene eastbound on State Route 161 and has not been located. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Columbus Police Accident Investigation Unit at 614-645-4767 or provide anonymous tips through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-TIPS (8477).
The crash forced the closure of I-270 in both directions near State Route 161, along with nearby ramps, causing significant traffic disruption. The Ohio EPA may respond due to the hazardous nature of the spill.
COTA’s proposed Line 30 will improve transit between OSU and northwest Columbus suburbs by Fall 2026.
New COTA Bus Line to Link OSU with Upper Arlington, Hilliard, and Dublin by 2026
Columbus, Ohio – The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) is developing a new high-capacity bus line—Line 30—to enhance transit connectivity between The Ohio State University (OSU) and the northwest suburbs of Columbus, Ohio. This expansion will link key areas such as Upper Arlington, Hilliard, and Dublin, and is projected to launch in Fall 2026.
While the exact route is still under development, COTA is actively engaging the public for feedback through an online survey and a community meeting on June 24 from 6–7 p.m. at the Bob Crane Community Center in Upper Arlington.
Line 30 is a result of the LinkUS initiative, supported by a 0.5% sales tax increase approved by voters in November 2024, designed to improve regional transit and reduce congestion.
The line will start at the John Herrick Transit Center on OSU’s campus, making stops at landmarks such as the Wexner Medical Center and Ohio Stadium, then continue west along Woody Hayes Drive and north into the suburbs.
In Upper Arlington, the bus route will pass Lane Avenue shopping district, Upper Arlington High School, and the new Bob Crane Community Center. Two route options are being considered in both Hilliard and Dublin, serving major destinations like the Hilliard Library, Hilliard Davidson High School, OSU Outpatient Care in Dublin, Dublin City Hall, and local shopping centers.
This proposed route will greatly improve public transportation in Columbus and support growing commuter needs between residential suburbs and the OSU campus.
Emergency crews respond to a fiery tanker crash on I-270 in Northeast Columbus. Roads remain closed as officials assess the scene.
Fuel Tanker Overturns and Catches Fire on I-270 Near State Route 161 in Columbus Ohio
Columbus, Ohio – A fuel tanker truck accident in Northeast Columbus caused a significant fire and major traffic disruption on the afternoon of June 22. According to Columbus Public Safety Dispatch, the tanker veered off the roadway, overturned, and ignited near the I-270 and State Route 161 interchange.
The truck driver was hospitalized at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital and remains in stable condition. The Columbus Division of Fire confirmed that the fire was successfully contained, although thick black smoke was visible for hours across the Northeast Side.
The crash was first reported to 911 at approximately 1:40 p.m. By 2:15 p.m., I-270 was fully shut down in both directions, and all ramps from SR 161 to I-270 were closed. Authorities expect extended delays and possible involvement from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency due to fuel-related hazards.
Eyewitnesses shared dramatic images and videos of the fiery scene on social media, capturing towering flames and thick smoke clouds visible from miles away.
Stay with us for ongoing traffic updates and environmental impact reports from the scene.
