SCAM ALERT: Beware of Columbus Parking Ticket Text Scams
Columbus, Ohio – A new wave of scam text messages is targeting residents with false claims about unpaid parking tickets. Columbus Parking Services is alerting the public that it does not send text messages to request payment for parking violations.
If you have received a text message asking you to pay for a parking ticket, do not click any links and delete the message immediately. These messages are part of a phishing scam intended to steal your personal or financial information.
How Columbus Handles Parking Citations:
Official parking tickets are issued physically on vehicles.
Follow-up communication is done via mail, not text.
Valid payment methods include:
Online via the official City of Columbus website
By phone: Call 614-645-6400
In person or by mail
To check if you actually owe a citation, visit the Columbus Parking Services portal and search by your license plate number.
BMV Issues Similar Scam Warning
The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) also recently warned drivers about fraudulent text messages claiming unpaid traffic tickets. These phishing scams are designed to collect sensitive data under false pretenses.
Stay safe by only using official city and state websites to handle ticket-related issues.
Community members in Columbus rally in solidarity with immigrant families amid national ICE crackdowns.
Columbus Protesters Rally Against ICE Raids and Immigration Policies
Columbus, Ohio – Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in downtown Columbus on Tuesday night, marching in protest of the widespread ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) raids occurring nationwide. The peaceful protest, organized by local advocacy groups including the ANSWER Coalition and the Party for Socialism and Liberation, was a unified response to similar immigration crackdowns happening in California.
“We donโt want to see the same injustices in Columbus that we are witnessing in Los Angeles,” said Deja Gaston, one of the protest leaders. “We are here to stand with immigrant families who are facing an alarming escalation of deportations under the Trump administration.”
Activists shared emotional stories, highlighting the human impact of immigration raids and policy changes. Organizers like Shenby G voiced concern over family separations and mass deportations. โItโs heartbreaking to watch families being torn apart. Children should not be deported or taken from their parents,โ she said.
While Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, have praised the administrationโs immigration enforcement efforts, demonstrators in Columbus criticized the administration for promoting fear and inequality. โPolicies benefiting the wealthy are being passed, while essential public services are being defunded,โ Gaston added.
As the protest ended, participants promised continued resistance. โWe refuse to be divided by fear and racism,โ said Shenby G. โThis movement will only grow stronger.โ
DEA warns Ohio parents and youth about Carfentanil-laced counterfeit pills
Fake Pills in Ohio: DEA Warns Ohio Youths
Columbus, Ohio – Despite a recent decrease in drug overdose fatalities in Ohio, law enforcement officials are issuing a critical warning to parents, educators, and teenagers. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), a surge in counterfeit pills laced with Carfentanil โ a dangerously potent synthetic opioid โ is creating a silent but deadly epidemic, especially in Columbus and surrounding areas.
Carfentanil, which is 100 times stronger than fentanyl and used to tranquilize elephants, is now being found in pills disguised as common medications like oxycodone and Adderall. These fakes are almost impossible to detect without lab testing and have already led to several fatal incidents.
โWe have seized multiple ounces just this year, and what is scarier is what we havenโt found,โ said Assistant Special Agent Brian Mulcahy of the DEA Columbus division. โA speck the size of a pencil tip can be enough to kill someone.โ
The DEA is continuing its “One Pill Can Kill” campaign, encouraging parents to talk openly with their children about the risks of taking any pill that doesnโt come directly from a licensed medical professional.
Law enforcement also notes an alarming rise in youth experimentation driven by peer pressure and social media trends, adding urgency to these conversations. The potential for a single, fake pill to end a life has never been higher.
Protests Erupt Columbus This Week: Immigration, LGBTQ+ Rights, and Anti-Military Parade Demonstrations Planned Across Central Ohio
Columbus, Ohio – Columbus, Ohio is set to experience a surge in civic demonstrations this week as dozens of local protests are scheduled in response to national events. From opposing federal immigration policies to celebrating LGBTQ+ pride, Central Ohio will be buzzing with activism and public expression.
The protest wave comes amid heightened tensions following large-scale immigration raids in California and a controversial military parade planned in Washington D.C. This week, Columbus organizations are rallying to show solidarity with immigrants, support LGBTQ+ rights, and oppose authoritarian symbolism.
Events include the “ICE Out!” demonstration, hosted by groups like the Ohio Immigrant Alliance and Columbus Democratic Socialists of America, set for 6 p.m. on June 10 at City Hall (90 W Broad Street). The Stonewall Columbus Pride March, rooted in the historic 1969 Stonewall Uprising, kicks off on June 14 at 10:30 a.m. with the Pride Festival and Resource Fair running from June 13โ14.
In protest of the federal military parade, a series of โNo Kingsโ rallies will take place across Central Ohio on June 14, organized by Indivisible Central Ohio. Locations include Hilliard, Clintonville, Grove City, Westerville, Delaware, Pickerington, and London.
Recurring rallies include:
Support Veterans Rush Hour Rally โ June 10, 4:30โ5:30 PM at Chalmers P. Wylie VA Center
Rush Hour Sign-Waving Events โ June 10, 11, and 13 over SR 315
Worthington Rush Hour Rally โ June 10, 4:30โ5:30 PM at SR 161 & High Street
Wednesdays at Bernie’s โ June 11, noonโ1 PM at Senator Bernie Morenoโs Columbus office
This week marks a significant moment for civic engagement in Columbus, highlighting the city’s role in shaping local and national conversations.
Councilmember Barroso de Padilla wearing a โDaughter of Immigrantsโ T-shirt at Columbus City Hall on June 9.
Columbus Councilmember Barroso de Padilla Condemns ICE Raids, promises to protest
Columbus, Ohio – Amid national unrest over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations, Columbus City Councilmember Lourdes Barroso de Padilla publicly denounced the federal government’s aggressive immigration policies during a City Council meeting held on June 9.
Wearing a T-shirt that read โDaughter of Immigrants,โ Barroso de Padillaโwho is a first-generation Cuban-American born in Columbusโused her platform to express solidarity with peaceful protesters in Los Angeles rallying against recent ICE raids.
โI stand with the courageous individuals raising their voices in protest against the cruel and unjust tactics used by ICE,โ she stated from the dais.
Barroso de Padilla revealed to The Columbus Dispatch that she plans to join a protest on June 10 at Columbus City Hall, organized by several pro-immigrant groups such as Ohio Immigrant Alliance, Party for Socialism and Liberation Columbus, and the La Raza Movement.
โThese protests reflect widespread frustration over harsh immigration enforcement policies that tear families apart,โ she said. โNow is the time for local and national leaders to advocate for compassionate, community-centered immigration reform.โ
Barroso de Padilla also criticized the federal overreach under former President Donald Trumpโs administration, emphasizing the need to invest in immigrant communities rather than criminalize them.
Shafi Shafat, CEO Buckeye Coastal Construction & Criss Burd , Managing Director Abdeliza Paradise
Abdeliza Paradise โ Premium Coastal Apartments for Sale in Nyali, Mombasa by Buckeye Coastal Construction
Abdeliza Paradise by Buckeye Coastal Construction โ NYALI
Where Dreams Rise by the Sea and Generations Thrive Together
Just 600 meters from the Indian Oceanโs turquoise edge, a new icon is reshaping Nyaliโs skyline: Abdeliza Paradise โ a boutique residential gem proudly developed by Buckeye Coastal Construction Limited, a firm with trusted roots in Ohio, USA, and a bold, future-forward vision for East Africa.
This eight-floor masterpiece, located steps from the iconic Voyager Beach Resort and within walking distance of Quickmart Nyali, offers a premium coastal lifestyle where American precision meets Swahili charm โ and where every generation in your family can thrive in peace and comfort.
Built by Buckeye Coastal Construction
Buckeye Construction Company โ Setting the gold standard for ethical construction in Columbus, Ohio
Trusted in the U.S., Proven in Kenya
From its robust foundations to its panoramic balconies, Abdeliza Paradise reflects Buckeye Coastal Constructionโs hallmark values: integrity, innovation, and world-class quality.
โ Secure land ownership & clean title โ Due diligence completed โ ready for confident buyers โ American-grade materials & engineering standards โ Low-density project (only 8 floors) ensuring privacy & tranquility
Whether you are a global investor, a returning diaspora member, or a visionary homebuyer, Abdeliza Paradise is your rare opportunity to own a coastal property that is beautiful, secure, and built for legacy.
โธป
Multi-Generational Living at Its Best
More Space. More Comfort. More Peace of Mind.
Every detail at Abdeliza Paradise is thoughtfully designed for families: โข Elevator access โข Wide, accessible corridors โข Serene communal spaces โข Ample square footage for everyone from toddlers to elders
Here, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being are part of the architecture โ this isnโt just a place to live, itโs a place to grow together.
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Signature Features & Amenities
Lifestyle & Comforts
๐ Just 600m from Nyali Beach
๐จ Steps from Voyager Beach Resort
๐ Walking distance to Quickmart Nyali
๐โโ๏ธ Residents-only swimming pool
๐ Outdoor childrenโs playground
๐๏ธ Panoramic balconies & open layouts
๐ช Cross-ventilated, light-filled interiors
๐งฑ High-end tiles, cabinetry & elegant finishes
Security & Convenience
๐ Gated & guarded compound
๐ช Single entry with 24/7 security post
๐ Cabro-paved roads & generous parking
โก Backup generator for common areas
โธป
Secure Legal Backing by Swaleh & Co. Advocates
To ensure total legal clarity and peace of mind, Buckeye Coastal Construction have partnered with the highly respected law firm Swaleh & Co. Advocates, located on the 7th Floor of NSSF Building, Nkurumah Road, Mombasa. Known for their professionalism and expertise in property law, they will personally assist buyers in navigating contracts, transfers, and due diligence with complete transparency.
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Smart Financing with Premier Bank Kenya
Premier Bank Kenya and Dalmar TV launch partnership to serve Kenyans in the U.S. with diaspora banking solutions.
We are also proud to partner with Premier Bank Kenya, making property ownership easier with flexible financing options for qualified buyers. Under the direction of Criss Burd, a respected Managing Director with deep ties in the U.S. and East Africa, Premier Bank offers international-level financial services tailored to meet your real estate goals.
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๐ Ideal for the Global African Diaspora & U.S. Buyers
Whether you are looking to retire by the sea, reconnect with your homeland, or grow your investment portfolio:
โข American-standard documentation โข Flexible payment plans โข Virtual & in-person guided tours โข A location ideal for rental returns or long-term residence
โธป
Own Your Coastal Home Today
From sunrise beach strolls to family dinners on the balcony, Abdeliza Paradise offers more than a home โ it offers peace, purpose, and a future. Built by a team you can trust, for the generations that matter most.
โธป
๐ Project Address:
Abdeliza Paradise P.O. Box 86534-80100 Nyali, Mombasa, Kenya
Diaspora Banking for Kenyans in the U.S. –Premier Bank Kenya Partners with Dalmar TV
Columbus, Ohio – For Kenyans living in the United States, staying financially connected to home has just become easier and more secure. Premier Bank Kenya, one of Kenyaโs most respected Sharia-compliant banks, has officially partnered with Dalmar TV, a leading media company in Columbus, Ohio, to promote tailored diaspora banking services for Kenyans abroad.
This exciting collaboration is designed to empower the Kenyan diaspora community with reliable access to multi-currency bank accounts, property financing, and savings solutions โ all from the comfort of their homes in the U.S.
Flagship Products for the Diaspora Community
Whether you are a Kenyan entrepreneur, real estate investor, or planning your return home, Premier Bank offers a range of services including:
Mortgage Financing: Buy homes or commercial property in Kenya
Plot Financing: Invest in land across major counties
Equity Release: Access property value while maintaining ownership
๐ Why Premier Bank Stands Out
Premier Bank is not just offering banking โ it is offering ethical, secure, and tech-savvy solutions built on three pillars:
Sharia Compliance โ Ethical finance model open to all.
Digital Innovation โ Remote onboarding, mobile apps, and modern core systems.
Global Reach โ Strong partnerships with remittance services like MPESA and Western Union.
Target Audience in the U.S.
Premier Bankโs diaspora strategy is focused on:
Muslim Kenyan Diaspora
Kenyans living or working in the U.S.
Real estate investors
Diaspora returnees and future planners
Recruitment agencies and Kenyan-American community organizations
Dalmar TV Partnership: A Gateway to Growth
Dalmar TV, known for its community-centered programming in Ohio, will play a pivotal role in amplifying Premier Bankโs message. This partnership is expected to drive awareness and connect thousands of Kenyans in the U.S. with a trustworthy bank back home.
“We are excited to be part of this journey with Premier Bank. This is more than just banking โ itโs about building trust, supporting community growth, and empowering Kenyans in the diaspora.” โ Dalmar TV Team
Hazy skyline over downtown Columbus, Ohio, as wildfire smoke impacts air quality
Air Quality Alert Issued for Central Ohio Due to Canadian Wildfire Smoke
The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC) has announced an Air Quality Alert for the Columbus, Ohio area, including Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, and Licking counties, effective through midnight on Sunday. This alert is due to drifting wildfire smoke from Canada, which has significantly elevated particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in the region.
According to MORPC, light northeasterly winds are pushing the smoke into central Ohio, while atmospheric mixing in the afternoon is drawing more pollutants to the surface. These factors are causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to reach levels considered unhealthy for sensitive groupsโsuch as children, older adults, and individuals with asthma or chronic respiratory conditions.
The AQI scale, which ranges from 0 to 500, marks levels over 100 as hazardous for vulnerable populations. MORPC advises residents in affected areas to limit prolonged outdoor exposure, especially during the afternoon hours.
Health Tips for Air Quality Alert Days:
Reduce outdoor activity if you are part of a sensitive group.
Consult a physician if you experience respiratory issues.
Carpool or use public transport to reduce vehicle emissions.
Avoid idling vehicles, especially in parking lots and driveways.
Postpone yard work that involves gas-powered equipment.
Do not burn leaves or woodโconsider clean alternatives.
Staying informed and making small changes in your daily routine can significantly reduce pollution and protect community health.
JewishColumbus reassures Central Ohio residents with increased security after antisemitic attacks nationwide.
Jewish Columbus Community Strengthens Security after recent attacks in Boulder, D.C.
Columbus, Ohio – Amid a disturbing rise in antisemitic violence across the United States, the Jewish community in Central Ohio is expressing deep concern. Julie Tilson Stanley, President and CEO of JewishColumbus, emphasized the growing fear among local Jewish residents, stating that many are hesitant to engage in public events or observe their religious traditions.
Recent attacks, including a firebombing incident in Boulder, Colorado on June 1 and the fatal shooting of two Israeli embassy staff members in Washington, D.C., have amplified these fears. Both assaults involved attackers reportedly shouting โFree Palestine,โ intensifying concerns about politically charged violence targeting Jewish individuals.
Despite these challenges, Central Ohio’s Jewish community remains resilient. In response to the rising threats, JewishColumbus has significantly enhanced its security measures. Since January 2024, the organization has employed a full-time Chief Security Officer, Mike Higgins, to oversee protection efforts at over 20 Jewish institutions serving more than 30,000 Jewish residents in the region.
JewishColumbus continues to work tirelessly to ensure the safety of the community while promoting unity, awareness, and security readiness.
Columbus Museum of Art Secures $3.75 Million in Public Funding for Roof Replacement
Columbus Museum of Art Secures $3.75 Million in Public Funding for Roof Replacement
The Columbus Museum of Art has received a significant public investment totaling $3.75 million to replace the aging roof on its historic Ross Building. This funding was made possible through a collaborative effort involving Franklin County, the State of Ohio, and the City of Columbus.
According to a June 3 press release, the funds will go toward removing the current aluminum roof, which dates back over five decades. In its place, the museum will install a more modern and durable solutionโfeaturing flat-rubber roofing and copper standing seam metal.
The funding breakdown includes $1.5 million from the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, $1.25 million from state government funds, and $1 million contributed by the City of Columbus. This project underlines the importance of preserving one of Columbusโ most cherished cultural institutions.
โThe shared support from city, county, and state leaders highlights how vital the museum is to our community,โ said CMA Executive Director and CEO Brooke Minto. โWe appreciate our visitorsโ patience as we begin these essential renovations.โ
Construction on the Elizabeth M. and Richard M. Ross Building, which houses over 14,000 pieces of art, is expected to begin in late summer. The museum will remain open to the public throughout the renovation period.
