ReportWire

Tag: Madison MacArthur

  • Delaware County renews property-tax rollback

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    DELAWARE COUNTY, Ohio — Delaware County’s property-tax rollback was renewed once again by the county’s commissioners. 

    The 0.5-mill property-tax rollback was originally enacted three years ago. This is the fourth one-year renewal and is expected to provide nearly $6.9 million in tax relief to property owners within the county during the upcoming tax year. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The 0.5-mill property-tax rollback was originally enacted three years ago

    • In 2022, the original rollback provided $4.8 million in tax relief

    • Commissioners estimate the total value for 2025 to be $6,884,362 in tax relief

    “We are very proud to continue our strong record of reducing property taxes for our Delaware County residents,” said Commissioner Barb Lewis, president of this year’s Board of Commissioners, in a news release. “This will be the fourth year we are able to enact a rollback and, over these four tax years, the total relief provided is nearly $25 million.”

    In 2022, the original rollback provided $4.8 million in tax relief. In the following year, in 2023, $6.5 million was relieved and in 2024, $6.7 million. Commissioners estimate the total value for 2025 to be $6,884,362 in tax relief.

    “In these times of intense focus on property taxes, I am glad to support another significant rollback of the County’s property taxes to benefit property owners here,” Commissioner Jeff Benton said. “Thanks to our excellent stewardship of taxpayer funds, we are able to provide this much needed property tax relief for the fourth year in a row.”

    Commissioner Gary Merrell said the rollback is something the commissioners are proud to provide to taxpayers.

    “This is made possible by living in a growing county where taxpayers and elected officials are working together for mutual benefit of all,” Merrell said in a news release.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Division of Liquor Control urges caution ahead of high school spring events

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    OHIO — Senioritis may be hitting seniors in college, but high schoolers also have some spring events to tide them over before they graduate or head into summer break. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Ohio officials are aiming to combat underage drinking at major high school events
    • Prom and graduation season are right around the corner

    • Last year there were 393 alcohol-related vehicle crashes involving youth

    Graduation season is nearly upon Ohio, along with prom, and the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Liquor Control is joining the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Ohio Investigative Unit to urge liquor permit holders, families, schools and communities to maintain safety through these events. 

    Many associate these events with underage drinking, and the division is pushing for steps to be taken to prevent potential alcohol-related incidents.

    The division said liquor permit holders are on the “front lines” to ensure that alcohol sales comply with the law, starting with checking IDs and refusing to sell to those under 21-years-old.

    “We rely on permit holders across the state to help us keep alcohol out of the hands of minors,” Division of Liquor Control Superintendent Jackie DeGenova said. “Their vigilance and adherence to the law are essential to the health and safety of our communities, especially our youth.”

    Permit holders are urged to:

    • Verify all IDs for alcohol purchases carefully
    • Provide training to employees to uphold liquor laws confidently and consistently
    • Report suspicious activities or attempted illegal purchases to local authorities

    The division also encourages community members, schools and parents to collaborate in order to reduce risks.

    Last year, according to data from the Ohio Department of Public Safety, there were 393 alcohol-related vehicle crashes involving youth between April to early June. It was a 10% decrease from the same time period in 2023.

    “As a parent, you cannot provide alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. While you may think you are providing a safe environment, you are committing a crime by providing alcohol to underage youth. This can result in injuries or death, jail time, fines and even civil suits,” OIU Executive Director Jamie Patton said.

    Schools and communities are encouraged to plan and promote alcohol-free events.

    “We applaud the work of parents, schools and businesses in stepping up to make this prom and graduation season a safe and memorable time for Ohio’s students,” DeGenova said. “Together, we can celebrate their achievements while protecting their well-being.”

    To report a bar, store or carry-out that sells liquor or beer to underage youth, call #677 or visit oiu.ohio.gov.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • City of Mentor addresses potential Great Lakes Mall sale

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    LAKE COUNTY, Ohio — Mentor city officials released a statement, addressing the sale of Great Lakes Mall, located in Lake County, and one of the few regional malls within northeast Ohio. 

    “The City of Mentor has learned that the Washington Prime Group, owners of the Great Lakes Mall, is preparing to sell its entire portfolio of over 70 properties, including the Great Lakes Mall,” the city said in a release. “There is currently no indication of when such sale will take place and the process for disposition. The city believes in the viability of the Mall as an important retail center and will continue to support efforts for investment and diversification of use to serve our residents and visitors.”

    The city said efforts include project development in the surrounding area. 

    Great Lakes Mall measures 1,249,450 square feet and has approximately 5.2 million visits annually. Per guest each year, Washington Prime Group said there are 7.15 average visits. Most visitors spend on average 65 minutes within the mall as well.

    Washington Prime Group currently lists 50 properties on its website.

    “As part of WPG’s multi-year journey, the company continues to sell assets in its portfolio, with about half of WPG’s properties sold in the past year, while the remainder of the portfolio is or will soon be on the market,” a spokesperson for WPG said. “As a result, WPG is reducing its headcount to reflect the downsized organization.”

    The spokesperson said the company’s strategy has been communicated internally for some time, with employees being connected to resources and support to help them.

    WPG is offering a severance package, access to outplacement services and a development program to affected employees. Through the services, employees can receive help with job search assistance, join resume workshops and receive professional headshots. 

    The development program was launched last summer to help teach new skills, obtain certifiations and degrees to help prepare for work after WPG.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • University of Toledo recognizes 6 students with inaugural awards

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    TOLEDO — Six upcoming graduates from the University of Toledo were recognized by the university for their impact on campus. 

    The university recognized them for their leadership, academic excellence and community service with the inaugural Tower of Excellence Awards last week.

    “The Tower of Excellence Awards celebrate students who embody the core values of UToledo,” said Scott Molitor, interim provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “This year’s awardees have excelled in and out of the classroom, and have made a positive impact on our campus community.”

    Tower of Excellence awardees are:

    • Amala Babu Thomas, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering
    • Matt Bell, graduating with a master’s degree in social work
    • Isabelle Fahey, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in communication
    • Ishan Manandhar, graduating with a doctoral degree in biomedical science
    • Emma Simons, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in pharmaceutical sciences
    • Carter Wheaton Rodriguez, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering

    The nominations were solicited in January and February. Students who qualified had a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and planned to graduate in 2025 were then invited to complete an application.

    A committee of faculty and staff selected the winners who received their awards on April 15. The university also announced the recipients of the Donald S. Parks Student Organization Awards, which recognizes student organizations and student-organized events that have contributed to the campus community.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Attorney general awards grants to combat illegal dumping

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    OHIO — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost rolled out nearly $1 million in grants to celebrate Earth Day and help the environment.

    Yost said the funds are going toward more than two dozen local governments to clean up illegal dump sites and prevent future dumping.

    “Illegal dumping isn’t just an eyesore — it’s a health hazard and a public betrayal,” Yost said. “These grants give communities the funding needed to reclaim places where they live, work and raise their families.”

    The funding comes from Yost’s “Shine a Light on Dumpers” initiative which launched in 2023 to tackle illegal dumping. The grants are funded through settlement dollars secured by Yost’s Environment Enforcement team.

    There were grants for up to $100,000 in cleanup efforts; applicants could request up to $20,000 for equipment to deter future dumping.

    Grant awards by region:

    Central

    • Clinton Township (Knox County) – equipment
    • Fairfield County Health Department (Fairfield County) – equipment
    • Madison Township (Fairfield County) – cleanup and equipment
    • Marion Public Health (Marion County) – cleanup

    Northeast 

    • Akron-Canton Airport (Summit County) – equipment
    • Austintown Township (Mahoning County) – equipment
    • City of Canton (Stark County) – equipment
    • City of Elyria (Lorain County) – equipment
    • City of Euclid (Cuyahoga County) – equipment
    • Copley Township (Summit County) – equipment
    • Warren Township (Trumbull County) – cleanup and equipment
    • Washington Township (Columbiana County) – equipment

    Southeast

    • Adams-Clermont Solid Waste District (Adams/Clermont counties) – cleanup and equipment
    • Brush Creek Township (Adams County) – cleanup
    • Hocking County Health Department (Hocking County) – cleanup and equipment
    • Jefferson Soil & Water Conservation District (Jefferson County) – cleanup and equipment
    • Marion Township (Morgan County) – cleanup
    • Smith Township (Belmont County) – cleanup and equipment

    Northwest

    • Auglaize County (Auglaize County) – cleanup
    • Richland County Sheriff’s Office (Richland County) – equipment
    • Village of Harrod (Allen County) – cleanup and equipment

    Southwest

    • City of Dayton (Montgomery County) – cleanup and equipment
    • Hamilton Township (Warren County) – cleanup
    • Harrison Township (Montgomery County) – cleanup and equipment
    • Village of New Richmond (Clermont County) – cleanup and equipment
    • Village of Seven Mile (Butler County) – equipment
    • Washington Township (Clermont County) – equipment

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Hunting results of opening weekend for spring wild turkey season

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    OHIO — Wild turkey season opened Saturday, April 19, and hunters checked thousands of birds, according to a release from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. 

    For the opening weekend of the spring hunting season, hunters checked 4,281 birds. 

    Last year, hunters checked 4,367 wild turkeys on opening weekend. The three-year average from 2022 to 2024 is 3,912. The opening weekend results do not include the 1,740 birds taken during the youth-only weekend earlier this month.

    The top 10 counties for the opening of the 2025 season were:

    • Belmont (148)
    • Meigs (136)
    • Guernsey (135)
    • Monroe (134)
    • Carroll (122)
    • Coshocton (122)
    • Harrison (116)
    • Washington (116)
    • Columbiana (109)
    • Muskingum (109)

    The season is open in 83 counties that comprise the south zone. For Ohio’s northeast zone, including Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake and Trumbull, the season kicks off Saturday, May 3.

    Hunters are limited to one bird statewide for the season bag limit.

    For the first nine days in each zone, hunting hours are set for 30 minutes before sunrise until noon. In the south, beginning April 28, hours will be 30 minutes before sunrise until sunset until the season closes May 18. In the northeast zone, hours are 30 minutes before sunrise to sunset from May 12 to June 1.

    Hunters must have a valid hunting license and a spring turkey permit, unless exempted. Turkeys must be game-checked no later than 11:30 p.m. on the day of the harvest.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • New Eco-Discovery Center opens in Salt Fork State Park

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    LORE CITY, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is opening a new resource for outdoor lovers at Salt Fork State Park. 

    On Tuesday, which is also Earth Day, ODNR celebrated the opening of a new Eco-Discovery Center which brings interactive exhibits and immersive environmental education.

    What You Need To Know

    • A new Eco-Discovery Center opened in Salt Fork State Park on Tuesday

    • The center is one-story and measures 3,332 square feet

    • The project cost $4.9 million and was supported through a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant of $2,250,500

    • Visitors can meet one of the park’s elusive resident, Bigfoot, as he explains how to lessen environmental footprints

    “The Eco-Discovery Center provides an engaging space for visitors to explore the connections between people and nature,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “With hands-on exhibits, live animal displays, and sustainable design features, this facility serves as a model for how we can all do our part to protect Ohio’s natural resources.”

    The center is one-story and measures 3,332 square feet. Throughout the center, visitors can see interactive exhibits, terrariums, aquariums and an introduction from Salt Fork’s legendary resident, Bigfoot. Visitors will also have access to indoor and outdoor restrooms. 

    Bigfoot will teach visitors how, despite the large footprint, he works toward leaving a small environmental footprint. Displays will guide visitors through the ecosystem of Salt Fork’s forest, and share tips on practicing sustainability.

    The building itself follows a sustainable model, using high-efficiency HVAC equipment and filtration, LED lighting, low-flow plumbing fixtures and a water bottle refilling station. On the outside, visitors can see a green roof and wall which are partially covered with vegetation to help absorb rainwater and improve air quality.

    Other efforts include solar panels, permeable pathways and a rainwater harvesting system. Within the surrounding area, visitors can find a patio, with seating, a rain garden, meadow, native trees and a trail leading to habitats.

    The project cost $4.9 million and was supported through a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant of $2,250,500. KeyBank also provided financial support. 

    For more information on the center, or on Salt Fork State Park, visit the ODNR website.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Unemployment filings rise in Ohio to begin November

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    OHIO — The Buckeye State saw an increase in its initial and continued unemployment filings according to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.

    Filings were dated from Oct. 27 through Nov. 2.

    Ohioans filed 8,051 initial unemployment claims, 1,989 more than the previous week. Of these, 838 have been flagged for identity verification to avoid fraud. 

    There were also 43,431 continued unemployment claims, 1,391 more than the previous week. 

    In total, the state saw 51,482 filings from Oct. 27 to Nov. 2.

    In September, the state’s unemployment rate was 4.5% compared to the national 4.1%. Ohio’s labor participaton rate for September was 62.4% compared to the national 62.7%.

     

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Kings Island closes Friday due to hazardous weather

    Kings Island closes Friday due to hazardous weather

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    CINCINNATI — As Tropical Storm Helene continues to push northward, southern Ohio is beginning to feel its effects.

    Kings Island announced it would be closed Friday night because of the National Weather Service’s forecast of high winds and rain.

    “Out of an abundance of caution for the safety of our guests and associates,” the park said in a post on X, formally known as Twitter.

    Visitors with an admission ticket for Sept. 27 will be able to use it any other day the park is open through Sunday, Nov. 3.


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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Students gather at Cleveland Zoo to create ‘mini-forest’

    Students gather at Cleveland Zoo to create ‘mini-forest’

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    CLEVELAND — Eighth graders from the Urban Community School joined together at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo to plant a “mini-forest.”

    Alongside the students were the Holden Arboretum Tree Corps and the Student Conservation Association as part of the Rooted in Trees program.

    “The zoo has really always been focused on wildlife and wildlife and human interactions, and this is kind of a nice step for us to really be able to talk about the importance of trees, not just for wildlife, but for people, people living in an urban environment,” said Christopher Kuhar, Executive Director, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. “So, we’re really excited to show the benefits of a forest and watch this forest grow up over the next few years.”

    See how the planting went below:

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • COTA to provide free rides on Election Day

    COTA to provide free rides on Election Day

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Central Ohio Transit Authority is making sure voters are able to reach the polls on Nov. 5.

    COTA’s Board of Trustees approved two resolutions to waive transit fares for all customers on Election Day, Nov. 5, and waive fares for veterans and active military members on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.

    Riders will be able to board any COTA Transit vehicle including COTA Mainstream, Mainstream On-Demand, COTA’s fixed-route system and COTA//Plus.

    “Since 2019, COTA has proudly waived fares on general election days to ensure that transportation is not a barrier for customers to exercise their right to vote,” said COTA Board of Trustees Chair Marlon Moore in a release. “I am proud our board recognizes that voting access includes the need for equitable mobility options and will waive fares once again.”

    Veterans and active military service members will be have to fares by providing military-issued identification to the transit operator, wearing a veteran hat, article of clothing or verbally identifying as a veteran or military member on Nov. 11.

    “Our veterans and active military have sacrificed so much of their time to protect our freedom, and we owe them our respect and gratitude on Veterans Day and every day,” said COTA President/CEO Monica Téllez-Fowler in a release. “Since 2016, COTA has celebrated our veterans by waiving fares on this national holiday. This will help them attend remembrances and celebrations across our service area and participate in programs that help our American heroes.”

    COTA offers a 50% discount on veteran fares each day. Veterans can apply for this benefit at the COTA Customer Experience Center, 33 North High St. during business hours. 

     

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Springfield, Ohio, officials cancel CultureFest citing safety concerns

    Springfield, Ohio, officials cancel CultureFest citing safety concerns

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    SPRINGFIELD, Ohio — Following several days of bomb threats to city buildings, schools and hospitals, Springfield officials have canceled its annual CultureFest celebration amid safety concerns. 

    “We deeply regret having to cancel CultureFest, as we know it is a beloved event for our community,” said City Manager Bryan Heck in a Facebook post. “However, the safety of our residents and visitors must come first.”


    CultureFest was scheduled for Sept. 27-28 and is an annual gathering celebrating diversity, arts and culture, according to the city.

    In consultation with local and state law enforcement, officials determined canceling the event was the “most repsonsible course of action,” to keep attendees, vendors, volunteers and staff safe.

    “We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this time,” the city said in a social media post. “We remain dedicated to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all.”

    Bomb threats began earlier last week after unproven claims circulated social media, accusing Haitian immigrants in the town were killing and eating people’s pets. These claims were further perpetuated by political figures, like JD Vance and former President Donald Trump, who used it as an example in last week’s debate against Vice President Kamala Harris. 

    The City of Springfield and Springfield police have said that there are no verifiable instances of Haitians stealing and eating pets. 

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  • Columbus reaches preliminary agreement in data breach lawsuit

    Columbus reaches preliminary agreement in data breach lawsuit

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — The city of Columbus’ attorney’s office reached a preliminary agreement with an IT expert who claimed to have downloaded hacked information from the dark web that was stolen during the city’s cybersecurity incident in July.

    City Attorney Zach Klein said the agreement was reached Wednesday with David Ross, also known as Connor Goodwolf, in a preliminary injunction submitted to the court.

    What You Need To Know

    • City Attorney Zach Klein said the agreement was reached Wednesday with David Ross, also known as Connor Goodwolf, in a preliminary injunction submitted to the court

    • Within the agreement, Ross will be able to dialogue with the city regarding the breach while protecting the exposed sensitive data from being shared

    • Through the agreement, Ross is not allowed to share city data obtained that identifies Personal Identifiable Information, including Social Security Numbers, driver’s license numbers, bank account information, credit card numbers, medical information or other sensitive material

    • Ross cannot share data from Columbus’ MATRIX prosecutor or crime databases

    Within the agreement, Ross will be able to dialogue with the city regarding the breach while protecting the exposed sensitive data from being shared. Klein said in a news release the agreement does not affect Ross’ ability to discuss the cyberbreach and the kinds of data exposed, including to media.

    “The City and our counsel met with Mr. Ross several times over the past week. While the content of these conversations is confidential, I can say that these discussions were positive and led to an agreement submitted to the Court that prevents sensitive data from being disseminated, protects public safety and respects free speech,” Klein said in a news release. “Like many, I remain concerned about anyone having access to this sensitive data, and as this investigation into the cyber intrusion continues, the City Attorney’s Office will continue to keep the best interest of residents, victims, police officers and our city at heart. That remains our top priority.”

    Through the agreement, Ross is not allowed to share city data obtained that identifies Personal Identifiable Information, including Social Security Numbers, driver’s license numbers, bank account information, credit card numbers, medical information or other sensitive material. Ross cannot share data from Columbus’ MATRIX prosecutor or crime databases.

    “A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been extremely supportive. I’ve heard from concerned and caring individuals, ranging from the community at large to those in the cybersecurity, engineering and technology sectors,” Ross said. “From the beginning, my goal has been to inform the public and ensure everyone’s safety. I firmly believe individuals impacted by a cybersecurity incident should be informed immediately, rather than waiting months, to know if their personal information has been leaked to the dark web.”

    Ross said the agreement is a good first step and that he looks forward to future discussions with the city. He said his ultimate goal is to have the case dismissed with prejudice.

    Klein’s office agreed to extend the response date to the lawsuit by 28 days to Oct. 30.

     

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  • Bridge connecting Ohio, Kentucky to close for 30 days

    Bridge connecting Ohio, Kentucky to close for 30 days

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    CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Starting on Sept. 16, the Oakley C. Collins Memorial Bridge will undergo construction to restore the surface of the bridge. The bridge connects Ironton, Ohio with Russell, Kentucky.

    What You Need To Know

    • The current surface is about about eight years old, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation

    • Approximately 1.25 inches of the surface will be milled off and replaced with the new material

    • The closure is expected to last 30 days

    The current surface is about about eight years old, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation. The life-span of the cable-stayed bridge itself is about 80 years.

    “We didn’t want to wait until the surface had passed its expected lifespan to make these critical repairs,” said Ohio Department of Transportation District 9 Deputy Director Mike Dombrowski in a news release. “Doing this preventative maintenance project now means the work isn’t as extensive as it might have been had we waited.”

    Approximately 1.25 inches of the surface will be milled off and replaced with the new material. 

    Because of the bridge’s narrowness, a partial rehab in order to keep one lane open was not feasible, ODOT said in a news release.

    “We know this will be an inconvenience to folks who use this bridge, but we want to ensure that we’re getting the best outcome from the project to maximize the life of the bridge deck, going forward,” Dombrowski said.

    The closure is expected to last 30 days. 

    Traffic headed to Kentucky during the closure will detour to Park Avenue (SR 93), east on US 52, south over the Ohio River on the Ben Williamson Memorial Bridge (12th Street) and west on Winchester Avenue (US 23) in Ashland.

    Traffic from Kentucky into Ohio will detour via Winchester Avenue (US 23) to the Simeon Willis Memorial Bridge (13th Street), west on US 52 and south on Park Avenue (SR 93).

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  • Roads closed due to storm debris

    Roads closed due to storm debris

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    CINCINNATI — The Ohio Department of Transportation said SR 730 is closed in both directions because of debris from Monday night’s storms.

    The closure begins at Mcguinn Road to SR 350, mile marker 8.6, because of trees on the roadway. Travelers should seek an alternate route. 

    Hamilton Township Police also posted on X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter, that W. Foster-Maineville Road is closed at Butterworth Road for another downed tree.

    This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • $10 million bond set for suspect in death of Cleveland officer Jamieson Ritter

    $10 million bond set for suspect in death of Cleveland officer Jamieson Ritter

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    CLEVELAND — De’Lawnte Hardy, 24, appeared in court Monday morning for his arraignment.

    Hardy is charged with the aggravated murders of his grandmother, Beatrice Porter, and Cleveland Police Officer Jamieson Ritter. 

    Hardy entered a not guilty plea.

    The state asked for bond to be set at $10 million.

    “The state gives notice that it will be filing a motion to have him held without bond. Once we know who the trial judge is,” said Kevin Filiatraut, assistant prosecuting attorney for the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office. “The reason for that is this, there are no circumstances under which, if this defendant is released to the public to safe.”

    Filatraut said on June 28, Hardy stole a gun from his grandmother, Beatrice Porter and shot her in the head. Porter remained on life support before succumbing to her injury.

    On July 4, Cleveland Police were trying to arrest Hardy on a warrant for felonious assault as he fled on his grandfather’s bike with two swords and a gun taken from his grandmother’s house. Hardy fired four shots killing Cleveland Officer Jamieson Ritter.

    “This defendent poses an immense risk to the public and should not be released,” Filatraut said.

    Hardy’s next court date is set for July 24 at 9 a.m.

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  • Dayton police investigating shooting that left 1 dead

    Dayton police investigating shooting that left 1 dead

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    DAYTON, Ohio — Dayton police officers were dispatched to multiple locations just before 1 a.m. Monday for reports of multiple people shot.

    According to officials, the locations were within several blocks of each other, including Home Avenue, according to a police report. There were multiple people shot and a large crowd gathered, police said.

    The size of the incident had all available crews responding and mutual aid come from Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Five Rivers Metroparks and Trotwood Police Department.

    Lt. Steven Baur said one woman was pronounced dead at the scene. One man was taken to the hospital and is in critical condition. Other victims were taken by medics or private conveyance in non-life threatening conditions to hospitals. One victim did not seek out medical treatment.

    Bauer said in a statement eight people were struck by gunfire. 

    Dayton police are actively investigating the incident.

    This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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  • Queen City Book Bank welcomes new mural

    Queen City Book Bank welcomes new mural

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    CINCINNATI — Queen City Book Bank will have a new ArtWorks mural designed by renowned artist and author Loren Long.

    Long’s piece is designed after his newest book, “The Yellow Bus.”

    What You Need To Know

    • Long’s piece is designed after his newest book, “The Yellow Bus”

    • Ten ArtWorks Apprentices, comprised of local high school and post-high schoolerers between the ages of 14 to 21, and two Teaching Artists have begun to work on the mural

    • The mural is a lively, mission-minded scene from the book and is coming to life on a grand scale outside the Book Bank’s headquarters

    • Loren has lived in Cincinnati for more than three decades and is a member of the QCBB board

    Ten ArtWorks Apprentices, comprised of local high school and post-high schoolerers between the ages of 14 to 21, and two Teaching Artists have begun to work on the mural.

    “We are ecstatic about this very special project with Loren, ArtWorks and Macmillan Publishers,” said Michelle Otten Guenther, CEO of the QCBB. “’The Yellow Bus’ will be our signature book for the 2024–25 school year and its simple, but profound, message will set the tone for an inspiring year ahead. This unique mural reinforces that by working together our community makes literacy a priority.”

    The mural is a lively, mission-minded scene from the book and is coming to life on a grand scale outside the Book Bank’s headquarters, 1200 Gest St. in Queensgate.

    Loren has lived in Cincinnati for more than three decades and is a member of the QCBB board. “The Yellow Bus,” is Loren’s latest book about a forgotten school bus that finds joy and purpose in the most unexpected places and in the journey along the way. 

    Loren’s has ilustrated nearly 30 books and has appeared on the New York Times bestseller list 12 times. His latest book goes on sale on June 25, 2024 from Roaring Brook Press. The book bank itself will distribute 3,500 copies to children in its curated book program beginning in September. 

    The public will be able to hear from Long and the mural team at the free Wet Paint public speaking event on July 11 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at 21C Museum Hotel, 609 Walnut St. in Cincinnati. Advanced registration is required for this event. 

    Apprentices shall complete their mural work in early August and Artworks and the QCBB ar eplanning a mural dedication celebration in mid-September.

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  • Columbus Zoo heightens security following car robbery

    Columbus Zoo heightens security following car robbery

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus Zoo & Aquarium is implementing its EVOLV security system at the main entrance following a car robbery on Monday.

    The car, a white Hyundai Elantra, was stolen from the zoo’s parking lot and the zoo’s teams are continuing to work with the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office to provide details and support the family who had their car taken.

    What You Need To Know

    • The car, a white Hyundai Elantra, was stolen from the zoo’s parking lot and the zoo’s teams are continuing to work with the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office to provide details and support the family who had their car taken

    • A guest sitting in the parking lot at approximately 3 p.m. on Monday saw four masked individuals running along the rows of cars, pulling on handles to see if the doors were unlocked

    • The sheriff’s office reminds Ohioans to take safety precautions when leaving their vehicles

    • Columbus Zoo then announced the implentation of the EVOLV security system at the main entrance to provide advanced threat detection and screening technology

    A guest sitting in the parking lot at approximately 3 p.m. on Monday saw four masked individuals running along the rows of cars, pulling on handles to see if the doors were unlocked while a fifth individual remained in another car near them. The witness moved their car to safety after potentially seeing a weapon on one suspect’s waistband, the witness moved their car while blaring their horn to alert other guests and called 911. The zoo’s Guest Relations and Security teams received two other calls reporting similar behavior. 

    “Safety for our guests, staff, and the animals remains a top priority at the Columbus Zoo, including the Zoo and Zoombezi Bay parking lots,” the zoo said in a news release. “A full-time in-house security team monitors parking lot activity both with cameras and with continuous patrol of the area. This team also works closely with the Sheriff’s office to handle any criminal activity that may occur.”

    The sheriff’s office reminds Ohioans to take safety precautions when leaving their vehicles including: “Be vigilant of your surroundings; Lock your vehicles; Keep valuables out of sight; Report any suspicious activity once you are in a safe place to do so.”

    Columbus Zoo then announced the implentation of the EVOLV security system at the main entrance to provide advanced threat detection and screening technology. 

    The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the situation and is working with the zoo’s teams to provide any additional information and assistance. To provide additional information regarding the robbery at the zoo, contact the Sheriff’s office (740) 833-2800.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • ODOT funding $2.8 billion for Ohio infrastructure projects

    ODOT funding $2.8 billion for Ohio infrastructure projects

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    OHIO — The Ohio Department of Transportation kicked off National Work Zone Awareness Week by announcing it was investing $2.8 billion into 950 road and bridge improvement projects. 

    Of the 950 projects, 39 have been classified as “major projects,” valuing above $10 million.

    What You Need To Know

    • The 2024 construction program contains 176 safety projects, laying nearly 5,700 miles of pavement and repairing or replacing 885 bridges across the state

    • ODOT officials highlighted the safety of ODOT workers, noting 43 crews have been struck since January

    • In 2023, 56 ODOT crews were hit through the entire year with 14 ODOT workers, nine contractors injured and one contractor killed

    • Ohio had 4,098 work zone-related crashes with 36% occurring when workers were present

    “Investing in efficient infrastructure is an investment in quality of life,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “Once complete, these projects will significantly reduce traffic congestion and improve roadway safety.”

    The 2024 construction program contains 176 safety projects, laying nearly 5,700 miles of pavement and repairing or replacing 885 bridges across the state. 

    “While the orange barrels that are synonymous with summer may be a source of frustration and inconvenience for some, they are a sign of progress and improvement for all who live in Ohio and who travel through it,” said ODOT Director Jack Marchbanks.

    ODOT officials highlighted the safety of ODOT workers, noting 43 crews have been struck since January. In 2023, 56 ODOT crews were hit through the entire year with 14 ODOT workers, nine contractors injured and one contractor killed. The top work zone crash type is rear-end crashes.

    “Driving requires all your attention, but that is especially true in work zones where things can change quickly. Drop the distractions, obey the speed limit, and allow extra room between your vehicle and the one in front of you,” said Marchbanks.

    Ohio had 4,098 work zone-related crashes with 36% occurring when workers were present. From the work-zone related accidents there were 1,433 injuries with 110 of them being classified as serious. Nine people were killed, including the contractor. 

    Summit County had the most work zone crashes with 576, followed by Cuyahoga County with 521 and Lucas County with 413.

    ODOT funded projects for 2024 include:

    Northwest Ohio

    Northeast Ohio

    Central Ohio

    Southwest Ohio

    Southeast Ohio

     

     

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    Madison MacArthur

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