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Protesters Rally at Ohio Statehouse on Independence Day Against ICE Immigration Bill

Protesters Rally at Ohio Statehouse on Independence Day Against ICE Immigration Bill
Independence Day protest in Downtown Columbus draws crowds opposing Trumpโ€™s immigration bill and ICE actions.

Protesters Rally at Ohio Statehouse on Independence Day Against ICE Immigration Bill

Columbus, Ohio – Under the intense summer sun, hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the Ohio Statehouse on the Fourth of July to voice strong opposition to the ICE enforcement actions, and the recently passed โ€œBig Beautiful Bill.โ€ The protest was organized by Ohio 50501 and the Columbus chapter of the Party for Socialism and Liberation.

Attendees held signs condemning the legislation and the administrationโ€™s policies, which critics say would reduce access to Medicaid and food assistance, expand funding for immigration enforcement, and solidify tax cuts introduced in 2017. Some protesters compared current U.S. practices to those in Nazi Germany, particularly referencing reports of masked ICE agents arresting immigrants for deportation.

One participant, Richard Anderson, 34, of Hilliard, said he joined the protest to stand against what he perceives as a growing culture of fascism and authoritarianism. Anderson also voiced outrage over a new migrant detention center in Florida dubbed โ€œAlligator Alcatraz,โ€ accusing the government of mimicking Nazi-era tactics.

Another protester, Richard Kaffenbarger, 66, of Plain City, described the billโ€™s passing as the moment he felt compelled to take action.



Ohio State Professor and Brother of Hakeem Jeffries Speaks Out

The protest featured a speech by Dr. Hasan Kwame Jeffries, associate history professor at Ohio State University and brother of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Drawing on Frederick Douglassโ€™ historic โ€œWhat to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?โ€ speech, Jeffries condemned what he described as the suppression of civil liberties.

He also criticized Ohio State President Ted Carter for dismantling diversity programs at the university following federal pressure. โ€œAll those Navy medals,โ€ Jeffries said of Carterโ€™s military background, โ€œand he couldnโ€™t stand up to a draft dodger.โ€

After the speeches, protesters marched through Downtown Columbus, escorted by the Columbus Division of Policeโ€™s dialogue team, who monitored from the sidelines while officers temporarily halted traffic to allow the march to proceed safely.


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American Pride and Politics Clash at Red, White & BOOM! in Columbus, Ohio

Thousands gather in Downtown Columbus for Red, White & BOOM! amid political tension and national reflection.
Thousands gather in Downtown Columbus for Red, White & BOOM! amid political tension and national reflection.

American Pride and Politics Clash at Red, White & BOOM! in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio – As fireworks lit up the Columbus skyline during the highly anticipated Red, White & BOOM! celebration, many Ohio residents gathered downtown not only to watch the sky explode in color, but also to reflect on what it means to be an American in todayโ€™s deeply divided political climate.

While the Fourth of July traditionally symbolizes freedom, unity, and national pride, a growing number of Americans are grappling with mixed feelings about their identity and values as citizens. A Gallup poll conducted between June 2โ€“19 reveals that only 58% of U.S. adults describe themselves as “extremely” or “very” proud to be American โ€” the lowest level of national pride recorded in U.S. history.

Against this backdrop, we took to the streets of downtown Columbus, interviewing attendees about patriotism, politics, and personal freedom.



Mixed Reactions to July 4th and the State of the Nation

The Red, White & BOOM! event โ€” the largest fireworks show in the Midwest โ€” offered a festive setting for a candid conversation on pride, progress, and partisanship.

For Todd Ireland, a mortgage underwriter from Hilliard, pride in his country remains unwavering. โ€œWe live in a terrific country that offers freedoms and opportunities that many across the world donโ€™t have,โ€ he said. A political independent, Ireland respects President Trumpโ€™s leadership and the promise of follow-through.

Others expressed disappointment, like Sarah Kirwin, an HR professional from Delaware, who believes patriotism also means speaking out. โ€œBeing proud of your country doesnโ€™t mean ignoring its flaws,โ€ she said. Her daughter, 9-year-old Ellie, shared her views, emphasizing concern over girls’ rights

Political Division Shapes Pride in America

Recent polling highlights a stark divide: 92% of Republicans reported strong national pride, while only 36% of Democrats felt the same โ€” a 26-point drop from the previous year. The divide is partly attributed to reactions to the recently passed “One Big Beautiful Bill,” a key legislative effort of the Trump administration, which is met with widespread public opposition.

Calvin Smith, a retired Republican from Columbus, expressed simple contentment: โ€œYou got your freedom, you can say what you feel โ€” I never fell out of love with my country.โ€ Meanwhile, Randy Urban, an IT worker and Army veteran from Lancaster, emphasized the freedom of opportunity that defines his sense of patriotism.

College student Booda Love, however, expressed anger and disillusionment after witnessing minority-focused initiatives at his university being phased out. โ€œIf we canโ€™t protect diversity, then what are we protecting?โ€ he asked.

As Columbus continues to serve as a microcosm of American sentiments, the clash between tradition and change remains central to the conversation.


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Southeast Columbus House Party Shooting Leaves Teen Dead, 5 Injured

Southeast Columbus House Party Shooting Leaves Teen Dead, 5 Injured
Authorities respond to a mass shooting near Wilson Avenue on Columbusโ€™ Southeast Side during a July 4 house party.

Southeast Columbus House Party Shooting Leaves Teen Dead, 5 Injured

Columbus, Ohio – A tragic house party shooting on Columbus’ Southeast Side has left one teenager dead and five others injured in the early hours of Independence Day.

Columbus police responded around 2:40 a.m. to multiple reports of gunfire at a residence on the 800 block of Wilson Avenue, just south of Livingston Avenue. Officers arrived to find three victims with gunshot wounds at the scene. Three more victims had already transported themselves to nearby hospitals.

According to Sgt. Joe Albert of the Columbus Division of Police, the shooting occurred after an altercation broke out during the party. Among the six victims were two juveniles and four adults. One of the juveniles, a teenager, was critically injured and later pronounced dead at 3:09 a.m. after being transported by Columbus Division of Fire medics.

The conditions of the remaining five victims have not been officially released, though police said their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

Community Leaders React

In response to the incident, Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin expressed frustration and sorrow via social media:

โ€œI am angry and heartbroken that, yet another life was taken, and five more people were injured in a shooting on the South Side last night. This kind of violence never has a place in our city โ€” yet it keeps happening.โ€

Investigation Ongoing

Authorities have not yet released the identity of the deceased teen, pending family notification. As of Friday morning, no suspects have been arrested, and homicide detectives are continuing their investigation.

Police are urging anyone with information related to the Southeast Columbus house party shooting to contact the Columbus Police Department or submit anonymous tips through Central Ohio Crime Stoppers.


Tip Line

Anyone with information is encouraged to call (614) 645-4730 or submit tips anonymously at www.stopcrime.org.


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Congresswoman Joyce Beatty Reveals Why She Missed a Key Vote in D.C.

Congresswoman Joyce Beatty Reveals Why She Missed a Key Vote in D.C.
Rep. Joyce Beatty, seen in a wheelchair, returned to vote after undergoing surgery.

Congresswoman Joyce Beatty Reveals Why She Missed a Key Vote in D.C.

Columbus, Ohio – In a compelling TikTok video posted by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty revealed the real reason she missed a critical vote on public media funding and foreign aid in Juneโ€”she was recovering from hip replacement and eye surgery.

The video, shared on July 2, shows the 75-year-old Ohio lawmaker in a wheelchair, clutching a cane, with Jeffries applauding her โ€œpersistence and resilience.โ€ Despite medical advice to rest, Beatty traveled from Ohio to Washington, D.C. to vote against the โ€œBig Beautiful Bill.โ€


@leaderjeffries

From the hospital bed to the House Floor #ForThePeople ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ

โ™ฌ original sound – Leader Jeffries

โ€œShe understands the stakes. That is why she got on a plane and came to the Capitol to cast her vote,โ€ Jeffries said in the video.

Beatty’s office later confirmed her surgeries, though the exact timing remains unclear. Spokesperson Christine Thompson shared that the congresswoman is โ€œfeeling goodโ€ but did not address concerns raised by the viral video, including her use of a wheelchair and an eye covering.

TikTok users expressed mixed reactionsโ€”some lauded Beattyโ€™s dedication, while others criticized her age and called for term limits in Congress.

Jeffries later delivered an 8-hour speech opposing the bill, which still passed by a narrow margin and was signed by Trump on July 4th.

This revelation sheds light on the personal sacrifices made by lawmakers and has reignited discussions around health, transparency, and leadership longevity in American politics.


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Sean Diddy Acquitted of Sex Trafficking

Sean Diddy Acquitted of Sex Trafficking
Sean โ€œDiddyโ€ Combs faces sentencing after being cleared of major charges but convicted on lesser federal counts.

Sean Diddy Acquitted of Sex Trafficking

Hip-hop mogul Sean Diddy acquitted Wednesday of major federal charges including sex trafficking and racketeering but was found guilty on two lesser charges tied to prostitution under the federal Mann Act. The decision marks a dramatic moment in the rapper’s legal battle, sparking mixed reactions across the entertainment world and public.

In Manhattan federal court, Combs dropped to his knees and prayed after the jury cleared him of the most severe accusations. However, he was convicted of transporting individualsโ€”including romantic partners and sex workersโ€”across state lines for sexual purposes. These charges could bring up to 10 years in prison.

Combs, 55, remains in custody and was denied bail, with sentencing expected in October. His legal team, led by Marc Agnifilo, called the partial acquittal a โ€œmajor victory,โ€ while prosecutors cited the remaining convictions as proof of harm caused.


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Ohio Leaders Disagree on Big Beautiful Bill Ahead of July 4 Vote

Ohio Leaders Disagree on Big Beautiful Bill Ahead of July 4 Vote
Ohio lawmakers speak out for and against Big Beautiful Bill before a major vote.

Ohio Leaders Disagree on Big Beautiful Bill Ahead of July 4 Vote

Columbus Ohio – As Congress prepares for a major vote, Ohio leaders disagree on Big Beautiful Bill, a sweeping economic package that would permanently extend 2017 tax cuts, reduce Medicaid spending, and add over $3 trillion to the national debt in the next decade.

The bill narrowly passed the Senate on July 1.



Republicans Push for Passage

Several Ohio Republican representatives are backing the bill, highlighting benefits like continued tax relief, protection for family-owned farms, and support for border security and national defense.

Rep. Mike Carey (Columbus) wrote that the bill is key to stopping “the largest tax increase in American history.” Rep. Jim Jordan (Urbana) called it “the largest tax cut for working Americans in U.S. history.” Rep. Dave Joyce emphasized the bill’s role in expanding energy production and safeguarding key programs.

However, not all Republicans are on board. Rep. Warren Davidson (Troy) remains undecided, citing concerns about the bill’s long-term impact on the national debt.

Democrats Strongly Oppose the Bill

Ohioโ€™s Democratic representatives are united in their opposition. Rep. Joyce Beatty (Columbus) warned that the bill would take healthcare away from millions and increase food insecurity. Rep. Shontel Brown called it โ€œone big ugly bill,โ€ while Rep. Greg Landsman argued it would force hospitals to close and hurt vulnerable families.

Rep. Emilia Sykes (Akron) stated the bill prioritizes the wealthiest Americans and puts working families at risk.

Deadline Approaching

Supporters hope to pass the bill before July 4, branding it a patriotic win for American families. With Ohio leaders disagreeing on key provisions, all eyes are on the final House vote.


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13 Ohio Medicaid Providers Indicted in $189K Fraud Case Following Statewide Investigation

13 Ohio Medicaid Providers Indicted in $189K Fraud Case Following Statewide Investigation
Ohio AG Dave Yost addresses Medicaid fraud crackdown involving 13 healthcare providers.

13 Ohio Medicaid Providers Indicted in $189K Fraud Case Following Statewide Investigation

Columbus, Ohio – 13 Ohio healthcare providers, including 12 home-health aides and one behavioral health specialist, have been formally indicted in Franklin County on felony charges of Medicaid fraud and theft. The alleged fraudulent claims, totaling $189,332, involved billing Medicaid for services that were never rendered, according to Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost.

The Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, part of Yostโ€™s office, led the investigation. โ€œFraudulent billing practices like these directly steal from vulnerable patients and Ohio taxpayers,โ€ Yost emphasized. โ€œThis type of waste, fraud, and abuse will not be tolerated.โ€

The indicted individuals span various Ohio citiesโ€”including Cleveland, Columbus, Akron, Cincinnati, and Youngstownโ€”and face charges ranging from fourth- to fifth-degree felonies. Investigations revealed various misconducts, including billing for services while out of the country, submitting time sheets while working another job, and falsifying care documentation for hospitalized patients.

Notable cases include:

  • Donna Deaver of Cleveland allegedly submitted fraudulent claims while the recipient was overseas, costing Medicaid $64,316.
  • Erica Gore of Columbus billed for canceled services and is accused of $2,033 in fraudulent claims.
  • Miranda Williams, a behavioral health counselor, reportedly billed for student sessions she never attended, incurring $26,915 in losses.

Other accused individuals include:

  • Natosha Hall, Rachelle Monday, Gerald & Tara Patterson, Thong Phaphouvaninh, Bounmy Thammavongsa, Patric Snowden, John Thomas, Janay Veal, and Donna Wellsโ€”each facing serious charges related to falsified Medicaid claims.

The Ohio Medicaid Fraud Control Unit works in coordination with federal, local, and state partners to uncover fraudulent healthcare practices and ensure justice for those impacted by Medicaid fraud and patient neglect.


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Road Closures for Red, White & BOOM 2025 in Columbus, Ohio

Road Closures for Red, White & BOOM 2025 in Columbus, Ohio
Fireworks light up the Columbus skyline during the annual Red, White & BOOM! festival.

Road Closures for Red, White & BOOM 2025 in Columbus, Ohio

Columbus, Ohio is gearing up for its most anticipated Independence Day event โ€“ Red, White & BOOM! On Wednesday, July 3, 2025, the skies above Downtown Columbus will light up with the largest fireworks show in the Midwest. Alongside the pyrotechnics, expect live music, a lively parade, and a bustling street festival.

With thousands expected to attend, multiple road closures and COTA bus reroutes will impact the downtown area. Here is everything you need to know to navigate the event like a pro.


Road Closures for Red, White & BOOM! 2025

Closures begin as early as June 27 and extend through July 4. Be aware of the following:

June 27 โ€“ July 4:

  • Washington Blvd (Broad St to Main St)

July 1 (9 a.m.) โ€“ July 4:

  • Civic Center Dr (Broad St to Main St)

July 2 (2 p.m.) โ€“ July 4 (6 a.m.):

  • Marconi Blvd (Long St to Broad St)
  • North curb lane of Broad St (Cumberland Trail to Belle St)

July 3 Parade Closures (2 p.m. โ€“ 7 p.m.):

  • Main St (Second St to River St)
  • Rich St, Starling St, Belle St, Lucas St
  • Civic Center Dr (Mount St to Main St)

COTA Bus Reroutes

COTA will adjust most Downtown routes. Expect the following changes:

July 2 (5:15 p.m. โ€“ 7:30 p.m.):

  • Reroutes on Lynn St, Main St, Gay St, Long St, Spring St, Lafayette St, and more.

July 3:

  • From 6 a.m. onward: Zoo Bus and Lines 71โ€“74 rerouted.
  • From noon: Lines 4, 7, 11 rerouted.
  • From 1:30 p.m.: Parade reroutes begin for Lines 3, 6, 9.
  • From 5 p.m. โ€“ midnight: Most routes (Lines 1โ€“12, 51โ€“75, 102, CMAX, Zoo Bus) rerouted.

COTA will maintain frequent service, with buses running every 10โ€“30 minutes, and special post-fireworks pickups at 10 p.m., 11 p.m., and midnight.


Where to Park for Red, White & BOOM! Columbus

Organizers recommend pre-booking parking using the SpotHero app. Parking is available at:

  • Battelle Riverfront Park
  • Bicentennial Park
  • McFerson Commons

Street parking and surface lots are also available, but spots fill quickly.


Join the Celebration Safely

Red, White & BOOM! is a canโ€™t-miss Columbus tradition, but it comes with logistical challenges. Stay ahead by using this guide to avoid traffic delays, find safe parking, and enjoy a stress-free celebration.


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Boom or Burden? How National Landlords Are Shaping Columbus Housing in 2025

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Boom or Burden? How National Landlords Are Shaping Columbus Housing in 2025
Suburban homes in Reynoldsburg and Galloway are increasingly being bought by large out-of-state landlords.

Boom or Burden? How National Landlords Are Shaping Columbus Housing in 2025

Columbus, Ohio – The Columbus housing landscape is rapidly evolving as national real estate investment firms continue acquiring thousands of homes across Central Ohio. A recent analysis of Franklin County property records reveals that six major out-of-state landlords each own more than 400 properties, with over 6,000 homes collectively under their control.

Leading the pack are American Homes 4 Rent and Vinebrook Homes, each with more than 1,600 properties in the area. These institutional investors have been active in Columbus since the early 2010s but saw a surge in activity following the COVID-19 pandemic. Other companies like Progress Residential, FirstKey Homes, Starwood, and Amherst have entered the market more recently, targeting newer suburban homes in neighborhoods such as Grove City, Canal Winchester, Blacklick, and Reynoldsburg.



Whoโ€™s Affected?

Critics, including housing advocates, argue these firms inflate home prices and reduce availability for first-time buyers by purchasing in bulk and often with cash. Carlie Boos, director of the Affordable Housing Alliance of Central Ohio, warns this practice is pushing the market out of reach for many locals.

โ€œThey are raising prices across the board,โ€ Boos stated. โ€œIt is harder than ever for average buyers to compete.โ€

Studies suggest corporate landlords may contribute to rising rents but also offer access to nicer homes in desirable school districts โ€” a niche that traditionally lacked rental options.

Changing the Rental Market

Unlike older investor models, which focused on distressed inner-city properties, many new landlords are now buying high-value homes in growing suburbs. While offering modern amenities, some properties โ€” especially those under Vinebrook โ€” have drawn criticism for poor maintenance and code violations.

Despite these concerns, David Howard of the National Rental Home Council argues these companies fill a valuable gap in the housing market by offering well-managed rentals to families who arenโ€™t ready or able to buy.

โ€œSingle-family rentals provide flexibility, quality, and location for families priced out of homeownership,โ€ he said.

Investor activity peaked between 2019 and 2022, with firms purchasing roughly 6,000 Columbus homes per year during that time. However, acquisitions dropped by nearly half in 2023, and some firms โ€” including Vinebrook โ€” have begun selling off properties.

In response to market shifts and higher mortgage rates, many companies are pivoting to build-to-rent developments. Central Ohio now ranks 6th in the U.S. for new rental home construction, with over 1,000 units built in 2024 alone.

New developments like Eastwood in Reynoldsburg by American Homes 4 Rent mark a significant move toward purpose-built rental communities, indicating a new chapter in Columbusโ€™s rental market.


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First 2025 West Nile Virus Mosquitoes Found in Newark, Ohio

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First 2025 West Nile Virus Mosquitoes Found in Newark, Ohio
Licking County Health Department responds after mosquitoes in Newark test positive for West Nile Virus.

First 2025 West Nile Virus Mosquitoes Found in Newark, Ohio

Health officials in Licking County have confirmed the first mosquito pool to test positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) in Ohio this year. The infected mosquitoes were captured near Jefferson Road and Moull Street in Newark and prompted immediate pesticide spraying on June 26 as part of the countyโ€™s mosquito control efforts.

According to Chad Brown, Health Commissioner for the Licking County Health Department, the presence of West Nile Virus is not uncommon, but residents should remain vigilant and take preventative action.

โ€œIt is crucial for everyone to protect themselves and their families,โ€ Brown emphasized. โ€œRemoving standing water, using EPA-registered insect repellents, wearing long clothing, and staying indoors after dusk are key steps to reduce exposure to mosquito bites.โ€

The next mosquito spraying operation is scheduled for July 1, covering areas in Pataskala and Granville Township, including McPeek Lodge, Wildwood Park, Raccoon Valley, Spring Valley Park, and the Beechwood/Thornwood region.

West Nile Virus is a mosquito-borne illness that affects humans and animals. While many people show no symptoms, some can experience fever, headaches, and, in rare cases, severe neurological issues. The Ohio Department of Health reports an average of 47 human cases annually statewide.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local health department updates and take steps to prevent mosquito breeding around their homes.


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