Paula, a beloved zebra at the Columbus Zoo, died after colliding with a habitat gate.
Paula the Zebra Dies in Habitat Accident at Columbus Zoo
Columbus, Ohio – The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has announced the death of Paula, a female zebra, after she sustained fatal injuries when she collided with a separation gate inside her habitat.
Zoo officials described the incident as a “tragic accident,” confirming that there was no evidence of outside disturbances, animal altercations, or underlying health issues among the zebra herd.
A necropsy will be conducted to better understand the specific injuries that caused Paula’s death. In a statement, the zoo expressed deep sadness over the loss, noting Paula’s spirited personality and the joy she brought to guests and staff.
In response to the incident, the Columbus Zoo has introduced new safety measures, including enhanced visual barriers and reinforced fencing within the zebra enclosure. These changes are intended to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Jen Fields, the zoo’s director of communications, said caregivers remain uncertain about how fast Paula was moving at the time of the collision. The gate involved in the incident is used to separate the outdoor yards within the zebra habitat.
Authorities investigate after body recovered from Hoover Reservoir in Westerville on Sept. 3.
Body Found in Hoover Reservoir, Westerville – Sept. 3
Authorities are investigating after a body was discovered at Hoover Reservoir in Westerville on Tuesday morning, September 3.
According to Columbus Division of Fire Battalion Chief Jeffrey Geitter, emergency crews responded near the Smothers Road bridge shortly after 10 a.m. The individual was pronounced dead at approximately 10:30 a.m.
Columbus firefighters assisted the Westerville Division of Fire in the recovery operation. As of Tuesday afternoon, the identity of the deceased has not been released.
Investigators are still working to determine how the individual entered the water and how long the body may have been in the reservoir. Officials said no further details are currently available.
Grove City Council approved $28,000 for temporary indoor recreation equipment at Brookpark Middle School.
Grove City Approves Interim Indoor Recreation Plan
Grove City officials are moving forward with a short-term solution for indoor recreation, as the long-discussed community recreation center remains years from completion.
On September 2, the Grove City Council voted 6-1 in favor of Mayor Richard “Ike” Stage’s proposal to allocate nearly $28,000 this year for recreation equipment at the former Brookpark Middle School. Parks and Recreation Director Jack Castle described the facility as a “bridge until the new community center becomes reality.”
The vote, delayed twice before, received mixed reactions. Council member Melissa Anderson cast the only dissenting vote, citing concerns about safety since the building is shared with South Western City Schools, which recently opened an enrollment center there. She suggested the city should seek a dedicated space for recreation programming.
Residents also voiced differing opinions. Parks board member Tricia Zelenak urged the city to prioritize building the permanent recreation center, while parent Mitch Curry highlighted the urgent need for expanded after-school care. “Families like mine have waited years for reliable, affordable after-school programming. The demand far outweighs the supply,” Curry said.
The city has use of up to 80% of the Brookpark building under an agreement with South Western City Schools. However, earlier this summer, Council passed an ordinance requiring approval for investments over $10,000 into the facility.
Plans for a permanent recreation center are estimated to cost around $100 million and could take at least four years to design and build, according to city officials.
Motorcyclist, Mitchell Jacobs, 55, involved in crash on Livingston Avenue at Rhoads Avenue, East Columbus
Motorcyclist Dies in Crash on Livingston Avenue at Rhoads Avenue in East Columbus
A motorcyclist tragically died following a crash on Livingston Avenue at Rhoads Avenue in East Columbus Monday morning. Columbus Police report that the accident occurred around 11:49 a.m. when a Suzuki motorcycle, driven by Mitchell Jacobs, 55, collided with a Volkswagen Passat that was slowing to turn into a private driveway.
Jacobs was immediately taken to Grant Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead at 12:16 p.m. The driver of the Volkswagen was unharmed and remained at the scene.
Authorities confirmed that the crash is still under investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact Columbus Police at 614-645-4767.
Columbus crews restore a rainbow crosswalk in the University District following vandalism.
Rainbow Crosswalk Restored at East Lane and Waldeck Avenues in Columbus University District
A rainbow-colored crosswalk in Columbus’ University District has been restored following vandalism. The crosswalk, located at the intersection of East Lane and Waldeck avenues, was defaced with black paint, likely due to a mistaken assumption that it celebrated LGBTQ+ Pride. In reality, the colorful crosswalk is part of a federal safety study conducted by the Federal Highway Administration. The study evaluates the effectiveness of non-traditional crosswalk colors in reducing accidents at select intersections in Columbus, including areas near Ohio State University, as well as in Austin, Texas; Washington, D.C.; and Raleigh, North Carolina.
By September 1, city crews had removed most of the black paint. Officials received two 311 reports about the vandalism on August 25. The University District intersection, surrounded by student housing, has also seen remnants of weekend litter from OSU students on nearby lawns.
This incident comes shortly after a rainbow crosswalk in Orlando, Florida, was painted over. That crosswalk had been installed to honor the 49 victims of the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting. Studies, including one by Bloomberg Philanthropies in 2022, suggest that intersections with artistic crosswalks can reduce pedestrian and cyclist accidents by up to 50%.
Columbus officials, including Randy Borntrager, deputy director of the Department of Public Service, confirmed that city crews assessed options for graffiti removal. Residents have generally responded positively to the crosswalk, though its permanent status will depend on the results of the federal study.
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani was injured in a car crash in New Hampshire on Aug. 30, 2025.
Rudy Giuliani Seriously Injured in Car Crash
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani was hospitalized Saturday night after a serious car accident on Interstate 93 in Manchester, New Hampshire.
According to Giuliani’s security chief, Michael Ragusa, the 80-year-old’s vehicle was struck from behind at high speed shortly after Giuliani had stopped to assist a woman involved in a domestic violence incident.
Giuliani was transported to a nearby trauma center where doctors diagnosed him with a fractured thoracic vertebrae, multiple lacerations and contusions, and injuries to his left arm and lower leg.
New Hampshire State Police Confirm Crash
In a statement to The Hill, New Hampshire State Police confirmed that the two-vehicle crash occurred around 10 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025. Troopers were already on scene investigating a separate domestic violence incident when the crash happened in the opposite lanes.
Both vehicles were heavily damaged after veering into the median. Police reported that three people were injured, including Giuliani, who was a passenger in one of the vehicles.
Emergency responders at the scene quickly provided aid before Giuliani was taken to the hospital.
The Buckeyes celebrate after defeating Texas 14-7 in their 2025 season opener at Ohio Stadium.
Ohio State Beats Texas 14-7
The Ohio State Buckeyes kicked off the 2025 college football season with a statement-making 14-7 victory over the No. 1 ranked Texas Longhorns at Ohio Stadium. The win not only snapped Texas’ impressive road winning streak but also reminded the nation that Ohio State remains a championship-caliber team under head coach Ryan Day.
The night began with a celebration of last year’s success as the Buckeyes unveiled their ninth national championship banner. But once the whistle blew, the focus was firmly on proving that this year’s team is ready to carve out its own legacy.
Defense Leads the Way in Top-3 Showdown
Ohio State’s defense was the true difference-maker in the game. Linebacker Arvell Reese and cornerback Davison Igbinosun combined for 19 tackles, while the Buckeyes executed a crucial goal-line stand in the third quarter to halt Texas quarterback Arch Manning.
The Longhorns struggled on fourth downs, converting just once in five attempts. Later, Jermaine Mathews sealed the momentum with a key interception.
New defensive coordinator Matt Patricia credited safety Caleb Downs for his leadership, calling him the “field general” of the secondary who kept the communication sharp and the energy high.
Ohio Stadium Crowd Fuels the Win
The atmosphere inside Ohio Stadium was electric, with a sellout crowd of 107,524 fans making their presence felt. A new fan tradition rewarded “Buckeye Leaves” each time the crowd noise forced an opponent into a mistake, such as a false start or timeout. Against Texas, the fans earned four leaves — and their noise played a crucial role in disrupting the Longhorns’ final drive.
Coach Ryan Day praised the fans, saying:
“What an unbelievable atmosphere. I think it made a huge difference in the fourth quarter. It takes everybody, and the fans certainly brought it.”
A Strong Start, With More to Prove
The victory not only handed Ohio State an early boost in the rankings but also ended Texas’ 11-game road winning streak. While the offense didn’t fully unleash its potential under new quarterback Julian Sayin, the Buckeyes proved they can win gritty, physical games against elite competition.
Offensive lineman Luke Montgomery summed it up best:
“The number-one team in the country just came in, and I think we’re the best team in the country by far. But we still have a long way to go, and this win is just the beginning.”
As the 2025 season unfolds, Ohio State’s combination of defensive dominance, home-field advantage, and developing offensive identity will be key storylines to watch. One thing is certain — the road to another championship is alive and well in Columbus.
President Trump spotted in Virginia on Saturday after health rumors surfaced online.
Trump Makes Public Appearance at Virginia Golf Course After Health Rumors
President Donald Trump was spotted Saturday at Trump National Golf Club in Sterling, Virginia, pushing back against growing speculation about his health.
The president had not appeared at public events for several consecutive days, sparking a wave of social media chatter after photos showing bruising on his hand during a Cabinet meeting went viral.
Veteran journalist Laura Rozen highlighted the president’s absence in a thread on X, reposting new images of Trump on the golf course. Vice President JD Vance also addressed the topic this week, telling USA Today that while he is prepared to step in if needed, Trump remains in “incredibly good health.”
Vance reassured the public, saying, “The president is in good shape, will serve out the rest of his term, and continue delivering for the American people.” He emphasized that Trump remains highly active, often the first to make calls in the morning and the last to do so at night.
Speculation about Trump’s health has flared multiple times this year. Last month, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the president underwent medical testing for swelling in his legs and bruises on his hands. Doctors diagnosed him with chronic venous insufficiency, a common condition in older adults where veins have difficulty circulating blood.
The discussion comes just a year after Trump survived an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania campaign rally, where a bullet grazed his ear. Despite concerns, allies point to his stamina, energy, and commitment as evidence that he remains fully capable of leading.
Trump, now 79, became the oldest president ever sworn into office upon his return to the White House in January. While his approval ratings have dipped slightly in recent polls, the president remains active in interviews, including one with The Daily Caller released this weekend.
Ohio State Buckeyes face Texas Longhorns in a highly anticipated 2025 season opener at the Horseshoe.
Ohio State vs Texas 2025 Live Updates
Ohio Stadium in Columbus hosted one of the most anticipated college football season openers as the No. 3 Ohio State Buckeyes faced off against the top-ranked Texas Longhorns. The game marks the first time in two decades that Texas has played at the Horseshoe, adding to the hype of this historic showdown.
After a slow start for both teams, Ohio State struck first with a one-yard touchdown run by C.J. Donaldson, giving the Buckeyes a 7-0 advantage midway through the second quarter. The Buckeye defense has been dominant, holding strong at the goal line and recording a key interception by Jermaine Mathews in the third quarter.
This clash serves as a rematch of last season’s Cotton Bowl semifinal, where Ohio State defeated Texas on their way to claiming their ninth national championship. With the all-time series tied at 2-2, both teams entered the matchup determined to take the upper hand.
The game also features standout Heisman Trophy hopefuls, including Texas quarterback Arch Manning in his first career road start and Ohio State’s rising star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. To enhance the fan experience, Ohio State unveiled new gameday traditions, including the ringing of the victory bell before kickoff.
This electrifying face-off between two powerhouse programs is shaping up to be a defining moment in the 2025 college football season.
Ohio University will suspend 11 degree programs in compliance with Senate Bill 1.
Ohio University Suspends 11 Academic Programs Under New State Law
Athens, Ohio – Ohio University has announced it will suspend 11 academic degree programs following the implementation of Senate Bill 1, a new Ohio law that went into effect on June 27 and reshaped higher education across the state.
The law, widely recognized for restricting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives at public universities, also requires institutions to discontinue programs that graduate fewer than five students annually over a three-year period.
After reviewing its academic offerings, Ohio University found 36 programs that fell below the threshold and confirmed on Wednesday that 11 degrees will be phased out, including:
Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry*
Bachelor of Arts in Geological Sciences*
Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics*
Bachelor of Arts in Physics*
Associate of Applied Science in Electronic Media
Associate of Applied Science in Equine Studies
Bachelor of Science in Education in Family and Consumer Sciences Education in Teaching
Associate of Applied Science in Child Development*
Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Flight Technology*
(*Students will still be able to pursue a Bachelor of Science in chemistry, geological sciences, mathematics, and physics.)
University leaders emphasized that currently enrolled students will be able to complete their studies and that no immediate impact on full-time faculty is expected.
Waivers and Program Adjustments
Ohio University has submitted seven waiver requests to the state in hopes of preserving certain unique or workforce-driven programs. Among them are the Bachelor of Science in Economics, Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science, and Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy.
Additionally, 18 other low-enrollment degree programs will not be eliminated outright but will instead be merged into existing majors. These include African American Studies, Religious Studies, multiple Geography tracks, Spanish Education, Art History, Studio Art, Theater, French, and several Music disciplines such as Instrumental Performance, Composition, and Vocal Arts.
Compliance Deadline
All Ohio public universities are required to finalize their degree eliminations or mergers by September 25, 2024. Ohio University said its academic teams are already preparing curricular adjustments to ensure a smooth transition for students.
This move reflects a broader shift in Ohio’s higher education system, with universities being forced to reassess low-enrollment programs under Senate Bill 1 while still balancing student needs and workforce demand.
