Columbus breaks a 35-year-old temperature record, reaching 79°F, with a sunny forecast for the weekend.
Columbus Breaks 35-Year Temperature Record: Weekend Weather Forecast & Updates
On Friday, Columbus set a new high temperature record, surpassing the previous record set 35 years ago. According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, the temperature at John Glenn Columbus International Airport reached 79°F around 2:45 p.m., breaking the old record of 78°F that had been established in 1990 and matched in 1995 and 2012.
The NWS also notes that the temperature could continue to rise, with certain areas of the region under a wind advisory.
Columbus Weekend Weather Forecast
Friday Night: Expect a chance of showers after 2 a.m. with partly cloudy skies and a low around 59°F. There’s a 50% chance of precipitation.
Saturday: Showers are likely, mainly after 8 a.m. The day will be mostly cloudy and breezy with a high near 75°F. The chance of rain is 70%.
Saturday Night: Showers are expected, mostly cloudy skies and a low around 50°F. The chance of rain is 70%.
Sunday: There’s a chance of showers throughout the day, which will be partly sunny and breezy, with a high near 58°F. The chance of precipitation is 40%.
Sunday Night: Partly cloudy with a low around 34°F.
Stay updated on the latest weather news and prepare for your weekend accordingly!
Veterans rally at the Ohio Statehouse, demanding protection for VA jobs and essential services.
Veterans Rally at Ohio Statehouse Against VA Job Cuts and Federal Budget Cuts
Hundreds of veterans and supporters gathered outside the Ohio Statehouse on Friday to protest the Trump administration’s decision to eliminate thousands of VA jobs and impose budget cuts affecting veteran services.
This demonstration was part of a nationwide movement, with protests taking place across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. The administration’s appointment of billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk to lead federal spending cuts through the Department of Government Efficiency has drawn widespread criticism, especially for its impact on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Veterans Demand Action Against VA Job Cuts
Protesters assembled at noon on High Street, holding signs with messages like “Make America Constitutional Again” and “Defund Musk, Fund VA.” Passing drivers honked in support as veterans led chants demanding the protection of VA jobs and services.
Michael, an Army veteran and federal employee who helped organize the event, stressed the importance of the VA in providing essential healthcare and mental health support. “The VA saved my life. The idea that VA workers, especially veteran employees, are lazy is just wrong,” he said.
Veterans Share How VA Services Change Lives
Many veterans at the protest shared personal stories about how the VA has helped them.
Rebecca Micallef, a 24-year-old Navy veteran, relies on VA services for daily life after suffering injuries during her service. “The VA allows me to go to school and work toward becoming a trauma therapist to help other veterans,” she said.
Jennifer Steele, a 43-year-old Army veteran, drove nearly two hours to attend the protest. After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in her early 20s, she credits the VA with saving her life. “Cutting funding to suicide prevention programs is a life-or-death decision for veterans,” she warned.
Dick Lee, a Vietnam War veteran who earned a Purple Heart, recently turned to the VA for PTSD treatment. “Veterans have made America great since the Revolutionary War. Cutting VA jobs to save money is unacceptable,” he said.
The Fight to Protect VA Jobs Continues
As nationwide protests grow, veterans are demanding that lawmakers prioritize VA jobs and funding for critical services. Their message is clear: America’s heroes deserve better.
Shafi Shafat joins Vivek Ramaswamy at Summit 2025 to discuss business, leadership, and economic opportunities in Ohio! Stay tuned for insights.
Shafi Shafat to Speak Alongside Vivek Ramaswamy at the AACG Economic Summit 2025
Columbus, OH – Shafi Shafat is set to take the stage at Summit 2025, President & CEO of the Somali American Chamber of Commerce, will be speaking at the AACG Economic Summit 2025 in Columbus, Ohio. He will be joining a distinguished lineup of leaders, including Vivek Ramaswamy, a prominent entrepreneur and candidate for Ohio governor.
Shafi’s presence at this summit underscores his leadership in advancing economic opportunities and advocating for business growth. As a key voice in the Somali-American and business communities, he continues to champion policies that drive entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.
This event is set to be a pivotal discussion on Ohio’s economic landscape, innovation, and the future of business.
Eastern Ohio Regional Hospital (EORH) has announced a temporary workforce reduction with voluntary layoffs set to begin on Friday, March 14. According to an internal memo, essential services such as the emergency room will continue operating during this period to ensure patient care remains unaffected.
To assist impacted employees, the hospital is providing supporting documentation for unemployment benefits. Additionally, EORH has clarified that bumping rights will not be enforced, a decision aimed at streamlining the layoffs while minimizing operational disruptions.
“We understand this is a challenging time, and we are committed to supporting our employees through this transition,” the memo stated.
The announcement comes just days after employees staged a peaceful protest over unpaid wages from the previous pay period. Following the news, local lawmakers have voiced their support for affected workers and the community.
Congressman Mike Rulli, responding to inquiries from 7News, emphasized the broader implications of the hospital’s financial distress. “My staff and I have been monitoring the struggles of East Ohio Regional Hospital. While running a business is challenging, failing to pay employees, provide insurance, or cover taxes is unacceptable. No one should work without pay, and these hospital workers have every right to protest. This situation highlights a deeper concern—the state of healthcare in small communities like Martin’s Ferry. I am committed to ensuring both workers receive their hard-earned paychecks and that accessible healthcare remains a priority for the region.”
Stay updated on this developing story and its impact on healthcare access in Eastern Ohio.
Authorities have identified the pilot who died in a helicopter crash after the aircraft struck a power line and plunged into an Ohio reservoir.
Pilot Identified After Fatal Helicopter Crash in Ohio Reservoir
Authorities have confirmed the identity of the helicopter pilot who tragically lost his life after crashing into Mogadore Reservoir near Akron, Ohio, early Friday morning. The victim, identified as 52-year-old Anthony Jones of North Royalton, was the sole occupant of the aircraft, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
The crash occurred around 7 a.m. when the helicopter struck a power line, causing it to plummet into the reservoir in Portage County, approximately 12 miles east of Akron. Emergency crews later recovered the pilot’s body.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken the lead in investigating the incident to determine the cause of the crash.
Columbus Police investigate the scene where a reckless driver fatally struck a man on Marion Road on March 12, 2025.
Columbus Police Identify Man Fatally Struck by Reckless Driver Doing Donuts
Columbus, OH – Columbus police have identified the victim in a fatal accident involving a 17-year-old driver who was reportedly performing donuts and driving recklessly on the South Side of Columbus. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon, resulting in the death of 58-year-old Julio Garcia.
According to police reports, the crash took place around 4:50 p.m. on Marion Road near the Marion Square Apartments, just east of Lockbourne Road. Officers arrived at the scene and found Garcia unresponsive. He was rushed to OhioHealth Grant Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead at 5:18 p.m.
The accident happened when a 2007 Nissan 350 Z, driven by the 17-year-old male, lost control while driving west on Marion Road. The car veered off the north side of the road and struck Garcia, who was walking on the sidewalk. The vehicle sustained significant front-end damage in the crash.
The teenage driver remained at the scene and was taken into custody. He faces potential charges, including operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, as well as other charges that may arise from the ongoing investigation. Witnesses reported seeing the teen performing donuts and driving recklessly before the crash occurred. Officers also noted signs of impairment.
Authorities confirmed there were other individuals in the vehicle at the time of the incident, but they are not currently being sought, as the driver is in custody. The investigation has revealed that the crash was not linked to street racing or any organized events involving donuts.
Under Ohio law, the teen could face charges of misdemeanor or felony vehicular manslaughter or aggravated vehicular manslaughter. If convicted, he could face varying penalties, including jail time, a driver’s license suspension, or even a lengthy prison sentence depending on the severity of the charges. Aggravated vehicular homicide, particularly while under the influence, carries the possibility of a 2-8 year prison sentence and a lifetime license suspension.
The Columbus Police Accident Investigation Unit is actively investigating the crash.
Ohio State Basketball’s NCAA Tournament hopes end with a tough 77-70 loss to Iowa in the Big Ten Tournament.
Ohio State Basketball’s Disappointing Loss to Iowa Ends NCAA Tournament Hopes
Columbus , OH – The Ohio State basketball team needed a win on Wednesday to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament, facing Iowa in the Big Ten Tournament’s first round. Their position was unexpected, considering how strong their season started.
Heading into the game, Ohio State was on the bubble, regarded as the final team in the NCAA Tournament field by most bracket experts. A win against Iowa was crucial for their tournament hopes.
However, the Buckeyes faltered again, suffering a 77-70 loss to Iowa and dashing any hopes of March Madness. The team will likely head to the NIT after one of the most disappointing finishes in recent memory. Ohio State struggled throughout the game, with a particularly rough start, shooting just 10% early on. Bruce Thornton stood out, scoring 24 points and recording nine assists, but he was the lone consistent player on the team.
The Buckeyes ended the season with a whimper, losing four of their last six games. Jake Diebler, in his first full season as head coach, failed to keep the team together when it mattered most, leading to further questions about his ability to lead the program. With the season’s disappointing close, fans and critics will continue to question whether Ohio State made the right decision in hiring Diebler instead of pursuing outside candidates like John Calipari.
Though Diebler deserves some grace in his first season, next year will be critical. A similar collapse could lead to even more frustration among fans. The Buckeyes cannot afford another disappointing finish—Diebler’s leadership will be under even more scrutiny moving forward.
Ohio Republicans Debate DEI Legislation and Its Economic Impact
Packed Statehouse Hearing Opposes Senate Bill 1
The Ohio Statehouse hearing room is filled to capacity, with overflow rooms also packed as hundreds of Ohioans rally against the controversial Advance Ohio Higher Education Act. This bill, if passed, would severely limit diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives at Ohio’s public colleges and universities, including banning DEI-related scholarships, job descriptions, and programs. Faculty protections such as tenure and collective bargaining would also be eliminated.
Concerns Over Intellectual Freedom and State Economy
Critics argue that the bill would harm the state’s educational system, economy, and future workforce by curbing intellectual freedom and diversity in academia. Faculty, students, and professionals fear the bill would force universities to eliminate critical programs and research, which could result in a loss of talent and funding. Fields like social work, therapy, and medical professions that require DEI-related training for accreditation could be hit hard as well.
Ohio Universities Respond with Rollbacks
In response to federal orders and proposed state legislation, universities across Ohio are already scaling back their DEI initiatives. Major protests have broken out, particularly at Ohio State University, where students and faculty voice their opposition to the proposed rollbacks and the potential passage of the bill.
Potential Impact on Ohio’s Economy and Talent Pool
Opponents of the bill, including faculty and students, express concern that it will hinder Ohio’s efforts to combat brain drain and attract skilled workers. The bill could weaken the state’s competitiveness and economic growth, especially in fields that rely on diverse talent and research funding.
A Critical Moment for Ohio’s Future
While the bill faces strong opposition, its supporters continue to push for its passage. The outcome of this legislation has the potential to reshape Ohio’s future, threatening not only academic freedom but also the state’s role in a rapidly changing global economy. The voices of protest continue to rise as the debate over the bill intensifies.
Volunteers at a central Ohio food bank work to distribute essential food supplies to families in need, amid USDA funding cuts affecting local programs.
USDA:Ohio Food Banks Face Rising Challenges Due to Funding Cuts and Increased Costs
Columbus, OH – Local food banks in Ohio are facing a growing crisis as funding cuts to federal programs, such as the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) program, threaten their ability to provide fresh produce. With rising food costs and policy changes adding to the pressure, many food banks may be forced to reduce the variety of items they can offer.
The LFPA program, which connected food banks with local farmers and schools, has been a vital resource for Ohio’s food assistance programs. Recently, the U.S. Department of Agriculture canceled funding for the program, leaving food banks, like the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, to absorb the impact. The LFPA program previously helped the collective purchase over $1 million worth of food from local farmers, ensuring that fresh, nutritious options reached families in need.
Why the LFPA Program Was Critical for Ohio Food Banks
Mike Hochron, vice president of communications for the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, described the LFPA program as a “win-win-win” that supported local farmers, food banks, and families. The program allowed the collective to purchase protein like chicken and beef at market prices, benefiting Ohio farmers while helping to feed those in need. With the program’s cancellation, however, food banks may face significant challenges in sourcing diverse, healthy foods.
“With continued cuts, the overall food supply will be reduced,” Hochron warned. “Families may find fewer options available when they turn to us for help.”
Additional Struggles: Rising Costs and State Budget Cuts
The cancellation of the LFPA program comes at a time when food banks are already dealing with increasing operational costs. From higher prices for eggs, fuel, and other food staples to the uncertainty surrounding potential tariffs, food banks are under significant strain. Additionally, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s budget proposal includes a $7.5 million reduction in state funding for food banks, further exacerbating the issue.
Joree Novotny, executive director of the Ohio Association of Food Banks, expressed concern about the loss of the LFPA program, noting the hardships it would cause both for local farmers and for those relying on food banks for essential nutrition. She emphasized that the program helped reduce food waste by enabling farmers to sell surplus produce to food banks, benefiting everyone in the food supply chain.
Food Banks Straining to Meet Increased Demand
The challenges facing Ohio food banks have been compounded by a dramatic increase in demand for their services. Since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, food bank usage has surged by 40 to 60%. In fact, recent data shows that food banks in Ohio are experiencing their highest demand in nearly 35 years, with many individuals and families skipping meals to cut costs.
“Every consumer is feeling the pressure on their budgets,” Novotny said. “And unfortunately, food banks are no exception. We’re stretched thin, trying to keep up with the growing need.”
As food banks face a tough battle to continue providing for Ohioans in need, they remain hopeful that continued public support and advocacy will help meet the needs of the state’s most vulnerable populations.
Gov. Mike DeWine presents his State Address, reflecting on major accomplishments and outlining priorities for Ohio’s progress.
Gov. Mike DeWine to Deliver Second-to-Last State of the State Address
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine to deliver his annual State of the State address, speaking before a joint session of the Ohio General Assembly. As one of his final addresses before reaching his term limit in 2026, DeWine is expected to highlight key achievements from the past year.
Among his notable accomplishments, DeWine has expanded Ohio’s Dolly Parton Imagination Library, integrated career planning into high school graduation requirements, passed legislation restricting cell phone use in schools, and enhanced mental health services with the introduction of mobile response stabilization units in more Ohio counties.
