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COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- One of the most highly anticipated openers in college football is just one week away when No. 3 Ohio State plays host to No. 1 Texas.

Buckeye Nation is already buzzing, and for freshmen on Ohio State University’s campus, it'll be their first taste of gameday as students inside The Shoe. 

Gahanna native sees first Buckeye game as childhood dream come true

"It’s been my dream school since I was a kid," Ohio State freshman Mouhamed Gueye said. "I'm so excited for this first game."

Thousands of Ohio State freshmen just moved onto campus. For many of them, the top two showdown between the Buckeyes and the Longhorns is more than just a football game. 

"I come from a really small high school," Ohio State freshman Payton Hopkinson said. "My graduating class was like 50 kids, so I'm just really excited to be a part of a super big student section."

Stepping onto campus this fall means finally stepping into a tradition they've only seen from afar. 

"I really love listening to the band," Ohio State freshman Meagan Sharp said. "Their halftime shows, their preseason, their walkout. I love the band live. I adore it."

The most difficult town name to pronounce in Ohio and each state

As the anticipation around the first game of the season builds, so does the confidence.

"Our offense is really strong this year, so I expect to see a great offensive performance," Ohio State freshman Kais Alwawi said.

According to students, the Buckeyes are built to win. 

"We have probably the best wide receiver [Jeremiah Smith] in all of college football history," Ohio State freshman Matt Kotara said. "He's nasty, so it's going to be great to see him throw it. And we got [quarterback Julian] Sayin throwing the football. He's going to be slinging a pigskin right down the field. Touchdown's automatic."

Win or lose next weekend, the freshmen said their first gameday inside The Shoe as students will be unforgettable. 

Housing complex boasts luxury living for Ohio State students

"It's just a hell of a game opener," Ohio State freshman Eric Leonard said. "The first ever game of being the number one seed versus the number two seed, and I'm just expecting energy, a lot of people in the student section to bring it together and really cheer on our fellow football players."

The students expect Saturday's matchup to set the tone for the season and they have faith in their Buckeyes that it'll work out in their favor.

"I think we're running the natty champ back," Kotara said. "I'm calling it right now. I mean, easily. Michigan? They got nothing."

Ohio State is set to take on Texas at Ohio Stadium Aug. 30 at 12 p.m.

In this edition:

* JAMSAT’s Blueberry JAM Project to Develop Open-Source CubeSat Transponders for Amateur Radio
* Amateur Weather Satellite Reception Opportunities Beyond the Retired POES Fleet (NOAA-15/18/19)
* Meteoglider Offers Reusable Radiosonde Alternative for High-Altitude Weather Data Collection
* SpaceX’s Starship Flight 10 to Demonstrate Expanded Booster and Upper Stage Test Objectives
* Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for August 22, 2025
* ARISS News
* AMSAT Ambassador Activities
* Satellite Shorts From All Over

The AMSAT News Service bulletins are a free, weekly news and information service of AMSAT, the Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation. ANS publishes news related to Amateur Radio in Space including reports on the activities of a worldwide group of Amateur Radio operators who share an active interest in designing, building, launching and communicating through analog and digital Amateur Radio satellites.

The news feed on https://www.amsat.org publishes news of Amateur Radio in Space as soon as our volunteers can post it.

Please send any amateur satellite news or reports to: ans-editor [at] amsat.org

You can sign up for free e-mail delivery of the AMSAT News Service Bulletins via the ANS List; to join this list see: https://mailman.amsat.org/postorius/lists/ans.amsat.org/

ANS-236 AMSAT News Service Weekly Bulletins

To: All RADIO AMATEURS
From: Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation
712 H Street NE, Suite 1653
Washington, DC 20002

DATE 2025 Aug 24

JAMSAT’s Blueberry JAM Project to Develop Open-Source CubeSat Transponders for Amateur Radio

The Japan Amateur Satellite Association (JAMSAT) has announced the launch of the “Blueberry JAM” initiative, a new project to design and build an open-source multi-mode transponder for CubeSats. A kickoff meeting was held on May 3 with 15 participants, marking the start of what is envisioned as a flagship development effort for the organization.

The Blueberry JAM project centers on creating a versatile linear transponder that can be integrated into 1U CubeSats, while also being scalable to larger 3U and 6U platforms. The design is intended to support both traditional linear operation and potential digital enhancements, such as delay modes and data handling. The first demonstration unit—an engineering model—is targeted for completion by mid-2026 and will be offered to universities and satellite developers for potential flight opportunities.

Jerry Buxton, N0JY, AMSAT VP-Engineering commented, “AMSAT-NA is excited to see the Japan Amateur Satellite Association’s commitment to open-source development and collaboration with amateur satellite organizations around the world with their Blueberry JAM initiative.

“We are pleased to offer our help in this collective effort by providing JAMSAT with any schematics and documentation from AMSAT’s open-source/open-access projects developed to date as well as those being introduced this year.

“This includes our flight-proven LTM-2 Linear Transponder Module that has flown successfully on satellites deployed by two world-class universities and currently still operating on MO-122 and MESAT1. LTM provides telemetry downlink support for the host science missions and satellite health, as well as direct control of the LTM amateur radio usage. A third university is set to carry the latest version of LTM, which will fly on GOLF-TEE and Fox-Plus, on their upcoming mission that is currently under construction.”

A core philosophy of the project is openness. JAMSAT has pledged to make the development process, design documents, and results available to the amateur community. Hardware costs are expected to be covered by JAMSAT, while individual participants will bear their own incidental expenses. By sharing the design broadly, the group hopes to encourage adoption by multiple satellite missions, with a goal of eventually deploying the transponder on as many as 10 spacecraft.

Technical discussions during the kickoff highlighted the demand for new linear transponder capability in amateur satellites, as well as recognition that digital features will be important for future operations. Considerations include dual-channel command and data handling, efficient microcontroller use, and antenna and power system constraints inherent to CubeSats. The team also noted the potential to establish a ground-based test station to exercise the transponder under realistic conditions before flight.

Buxton also said, “We are also very happy to share AMSAT’s work on its upcoming SDR GEN-2, an SDR that provides all-mode functionality and continuous coverage from 144 MHz to 6 GHz providing “Five & Dime” capability in a format to fit 1U or larger CubeSats.

“We look forward to supporting JAMSAT in promoting more international collaborations that continue to Keep Amateur Radio in Space!”

Coordination for the project will be managed initially through mailing lists, with Slack and other online tools supporting more detailed technical exchanges. Meetings will be held on an ad-hoc basis until a regular schedule is established. Participants also suggested supplementary seminars to review background information and prior work for the benefit of newer contributors.

By positioning Blueberry JAM as a fully open-source design, JAMSAT hopes to strengthen international collaboration and demonstrate Japan’s continued leadership in the amateur satellite community. With a development horizon stretching into 2026 and beyond, the project has the potential to become a cornerstone payload for future CubeSat missions and to provide valuable new communication opportunities for amateur operators worldwide.

[ANS thanks JAMSAT and Jerry Buxton, NØJY, AMSAT VP-Engineering for the above information]

Amateur Weather Satellite Reception Opportunities Beyond the Retired POES Fleet (NOAA-15/18/19)

With the retirement of NOAA-15, NOAA-18, and NOAA-19, the long-running POES (Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellites) series has officially ended service. Some in the community worry this marks the end of easily accessible weather imagery, but the outlook for amateur reception remains bright.

Russia’s Meteor-M satellites are now the mainstay for 137 MHz reception. Their LRPT signals are strong and reliable, and with additional Meteor-M launches planned, service is expected to continue well into the 2040s. Higher-resolution imagery is also available on the 1.7 GHz band for those with modest upgrades in equipment.

Europe’s Metop series continues to transmit on L-band, with Metop-B and -C expected to operate until 2027 and 2030. The newly launched Metop-SG satellites will extend coverage for another decade, ensuring continuity for hobbyists. In addition, the Arctic Weather Satellite and its planned successors (the STERNA series) will provide valuable radiometric data for weather monitoring.

A helicone antenna used by OE1RCI to receive imagery from the Russian weather satellite Meteor-M N°2-3. [Credit: OE1RCI]

Geostationary satellites also provide opportunities. Russia’s Elektro-L constellation broadcasts HRIT/LRIT on 1691 MHz, with a new spacecraft (N°5) scheduled for launch this October. For those in the Americas, the GOES series will remain active through the 2030s, continuing HRIT and GRB service. The U.S. Space Force’s EWS-G program further adds to the options, re-tasking former GOES satellites for continued imagery.

China’s FengYun-3 satellites and Korea’s GK-2A also contribute, while future developments in X-band reception are lowering the barrier for amateurs interested in higher-resolution Earth observation. Advances in software such as SatDump are making it easier than ever to decode and process these signals on affordable hardware.

The decommissioning of the POES fleet marks the end of an era, but not the end of the hobby. With a diverse mix of active and planned satellites across multiple bands, amateur weather satellite reception will remain an active part of the hobby, supported by a mix of current satellites and future missions. For those interested in exploring these opportunities, the open-source SatDump software can be used to decode imagery from many of the satellites mentioned above. SatDump is available for download at https://www.satdump.org.

Read the full article at: https://www.satdump.org/posts/beyond-poes-amateur-satellite-reception/

[ANS thanks lego11, SatDump.com, and the SatDump community for the above information]

Meteoglider Offers Reusable Radiosonde Alternative for High-Altitude Weather Data Collection

Swiss weather intelligence company Meteomatics has unveiled the Meteoglider, a reusable glider platform designed to improve the way atmospheric data is gathered. Introduced in the spring of 2025, the Meteoglider advances the familiar radiosonde concept with a sustainable, GPS-guided recovery capability that promises significant operational and environmental benefits.

Radiosondes carried aloft by weather balloons have long provided vital measurements of temperature, humidity, pressure, and wind conditions. These instruments supply essential input for forecasts, climate models, and atmospheric studies. However, conventional radiosondes are almost always lost after deployment. Out of approximately 600,000 units launched worldwide each year, an estimated 80 percent are never recovered, leaving most as non-reusable debris.

The Meteoglider overcomes this challenge by gliding back under control after its flight. Constructed of lightweight foam and weighing only 250 grams, the vehicle ascends to heights of about 110,000 feet before release. Guided by GPS, the Meteoglider can return to its launch point or a designated location, typically completing the descent in around 25 minutes while reaching speeds of nearly 460 feet per second.

Meteoglider radiosonde prepared with a weather balloon for high-altitude launch. [Credit: Meteomatics / Darrin Vanselow]Performance remains on par with traditional systems. Meteogliders collect the same high-quality meteorological data as radiosondes, but with the added benefit of multiple reuses. Each unit can be recovered and redeployed as many as 50 times, extending the service life of its lithium batteries and electronics. This significantly reduces the recurring expense of atmospheric soundings while also addressing sustainability goals.

Another advantage is the practicality of operation. Meteogliders do not require special flight permissions and can be deployed as readily as conventional balloon-borne instruments. Their recoverability reduces waste, lowers operating costs, and minimizes the environmental footprint associated with routine meteorological monitoring.

The technology originated with Swiss startup R2Home, which Meteomatics acquired in late 2024 following a $22 million funding round. Together with the company’s established Meteodrone system, Meteogliders represent a new chapter in scalable, sustainable atmospheric sensing. By combining innovation with proven methods, Meteomatics aims to reshape global weather intelligence practices with tools that are both economical and environmentally responsible.

Read the full article at: https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/meteomatics-unveils-the-meteoglider-a-high-altitude-weather-data-revolution

[ANS thanks Miquel Ros, AeroTime.com, and Meteomatics for the above information]

SpaceX’s Starship Flight 10 to Demonstrate Expanded Booster and Upper Stage Test Objectives

SpaceX is preparing for the tenth integrated test flight of its Starship Super Heavy launch system from Starbase, Texas. Liftoff is targeted for Sunday, August 24, 2025, with a launch window from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Central Time. A live webcast will begin approximately 30 minutes before liftoff and will be available on the SpaceX website and X (formerly Twitter) @SpaceX. As with all developmental testing, schedules remain dynamic and subject to change.

This mission follows the completion of investigations into the loss of Starship on Flight 9 and the Ship 36 static fire anomaly. SpaceX reports that both hardware and operational changes have been implemented to improve reliability, with technical summaries of the investigations available online.

The Super Heavy booster will attempt multiple flight experiments on a trajectory toward an offshore landing point in the Gulf of Mexico. Objectives include a controlled flip and boostback maneuver, first demonstrated on Flight 9, designed to conserve propellant and increase payload capacity. These trials are aimed at expanding the operational envelope and validating booster recovery techniques for future missions.

SpaceX Starship rolls to the launch pad at Starbase, Texas, ahead of its eighth orbital flight. [Credit: SpaceX]The booster’s landing burn experiments are a primary focus of Flight 10. SpaceX plans to intentionally disable one of the three center engines during the landing sequence, relying on a backup engine from the middle ring to complete the burn. The booster will then transition to a two-engine hover maneuver above the ocean surface before shutdown and splashdown, providing data on redundancy and landing performance.

The Starship upper stage will attempt several in-space demonstrations, including the deployment of eight Starlink mass simulators, a Raptor engine relight, and multiple reentry experiments. To stress-test the thermal protection system, a significant number of heat shield tiles have been removed, while metallic tile alternatives and active cooling systems will be evaluated. These measures are intended to expose vulnerabilities and refine reentry survivability.

Additional objectives include testing functional catch fittings and assessing rear flap performance during maximum entry dynamic pressure. According to SpaceX, these experiments are vital steps toward the development of a rapidly reusable launch system. With manufacturing ramping up at Starfactory in Texas and new launch infrastructure under construction in both Texas and Florida, Starship continues to progress toward operational readiness for future missions.

See the official SpaceX update page at: https://www.spacex.com/launches/starship-flight-10 …and maybe check out the SpaceX Shop for a new T-shirt while you’re at it.

[ANS thanks SpaceX for the above information]

The 2025 AMSAT President’s Club Coins Have Just Arrived!
Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Amateur Radio on Human Spaceflight
Help Support GOLF and Fox Plus.
Join the AMSAT President’s Club today! Changes to AMSAT-NA TLE Distribution for August 22, 2025

Two Line Elements or TLEs, often referred to as Keplerian elements or keps in the amateur community, are the inputs to the SGP4 standard mathematical model of spacecraft orbits used by most amateur tracking programs. Weekly updates are completely adequate for most amateur satellites. TLE bulletin files are updated daily in the first hour of the UTC day. New bulletin files will be posted immediately after reliable elements become available for new amateur satellites. More information may be found at https://www.amsat.org/keplerian-elements-resources/.

With HamTV becoming active on ISS, orbital elements are now updated twice daily in www.amsat.org/tle/ at 00:18 and 12:18 UTC. The intention is to have high quality TLE available to accurately calculate doppler shift for the 2.935 GHz downlink. Observations comparing these TLE to those that were calculated based ephemerides and TLE produced by Johnson Space Center the last time HAMTV was active are desired, write jfitzgerald [at] amsat.org

The following satellite has been removed from this week’s distribution:

VERONIKA NORAD Cat ID 58261 Decayed from orbit on or about 15 August 2025

[ANS thanks AMSAT Orbital Elements page for the above information]

ARISS NEWS

Amateurs and others around the world may listen in on contacts between amateurs operating in schools and allowing students to interact with astronauts and cosmonauts aboard the International Space Station. The downlink frequency on which to listen is 145.800 MHz worldwide.

+ Recently Completed

Youngsters On The Air, Jambville, France, Direct via FX5YOTA
The ISS callsign was OR4ISS
The scheduled crewmember was Mike Fincke KE5AIT
The ARISS mentor was F6ICS
Contact was successful: Tue 2025-08-19 09:18:30 UTC
Congratulations to the YOTA students, Mike, mentor F6ICS, and ground station FX5YOTA!
Watch the Livestream at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MARkTcR6Njo

NixderStelar (formerly Gemini-1), Lima, Peru, telebridge via VK4KHZ
The ISS callsign was NA1SS
The scheduled crewmember was Zena Cardman KJ5CMN
The ARISS mentor was VE6JBJ
Contact was successful: Wed 2025-08-20 14:07:47 UTC
Congratulations to the NixderStelar students, Zena, and mentor VE6JBJ!

+ Upcoming Contacts

Orion Primary School, Alberton, South Africa, direct via ZS9LSO
The ISS callsign is presently scheduled to be NA1SS
The scheduled crewmember is Mike Fincke KE5AIT
The ARISS mentor is IN3GHZ
Contact is go for: Fri 2025-08-29 09:35:44 UTC

Many times a school may make a last minute decision to do a Livestream or run into a last minute glitch requiring a change of the URL but we at ARISS may not get the URL in time for publication. You can always check https://live.ariss.org/ to see if a school is Livestreaming.

The crossband repeater continues to be active (145.990 MHz up {PL 67} & 437.800 MHz down). If any crewmember is so inclined, all they have to do is pick up the microphone, raise the volume up, and talk on the crossband repeater. So give a listen, you just never know.

The packet system is also active (145.825 MHz up & down).

As always, if there is an EVA, a docking, or an undocking; the ARISS radios are turned off as part of the safety protocol.

Note, all times are approximate. It is recommended that you do your own orbital prediction or start listening about 10 minutes before the listed time.

The latest information on the operation mode can be found at https://www.ariss.org/current-status-of-iss-stations.html

The latest list of frequencies in use can be found at https://www.ariss.org/contact-the-iss.html

[ANS thanks Charlie Sufana, AJ9N, one of the ARISS operation team mentors for the above information]

AMSAT Ambassador Activities

AMSAT Ambassadors provide presentations, demonstrate communicating through amateur satellites, and host information tables at club meetings, hamfests, conventions, maker faires, and other events.

AMSAT Ambassador Clint Bradford, K6LCS, says,

“Think a 75-minute presentation on “working the easy satellites” would be appropriate for your club or event? Let me know by emailing me at k6lcsclint (at) gmail (dot) com or calling me at 909-999-SATS (7287)!”

Clint has NEVER given the exact same show twice: EACH of the 150+ presentations so far has been customized/tailored to their audiences.

Scheduled Events

Northeast HamXposition (HamX) & New England ARRL Convention – August 21st thru 24th, 2025
Best Western Royal Plaza & Trade Center
181 Boston Post Road West
Marlborough, MA 01752
http://www.HamX.org
W1EME, WD4ASW, WB1FJ

Greater Louisville Hamfest – September 6th, 2025
Paroquet Springs Conference Centre
395 Paroquet Springs Drive
Shepherdsville, KY 40165
https://louisvillehamfest.wixsite.com/louisvillehamfest
W4FCL

North Star Radio Convention – October 11th, 2025
Hennepin Technical College
9000 Brooklyn Boulevard
Brooklyn Park, MN 55445
https://northstarradio.org/
ADØHJ

43rd Annual AMSAT Space Symposium & Annual General Meeting – October 16th thru 19th, 2025
Holiday Inn & Suites Phoenix Airport North
1515 North 44th Street
Phoenix, Arizona 85008
Details at https://www.amsat.org/2025-symposium/

Interested in becoming an AMSAT Ambassador? AMSAT Ambassadors provide presentations, demonstrate communicating through amateur satellites, and host information tables at club meetings, hamfests, conventions, maker faires, and other events.

For more information go to: https://www.amsat.org/ambassador/

[ANS thanks Bo Lowrey, W4FCL, Director – AMSAT Ambassador Program, for the above information]

AMSAT Remove Before Flight Key Tags Now Available
Yes, These are the Real Thing! Your $20 Donation Goes to Help Fly a Fox-Plus Satellite
Includes First Class Postage (Sorry – U.S. Addresses Only)
Order Today at https://www.amsat.org/product/amsat-remove-before-flight-keychain Satellite Shorts From All Over

+ The United States is racing to be the first nation to deploy a nuclear reactor on the lunar surface, following new orders from Acting NASA Administrator Sean Duffy. His directive, issued July 31, calls for fast-tracking lunar nuclear power to stay ahead of China and Russia, who have announced joint plans to build a reactor by the mid-2030s. Duffy warned that if rivals succeed first, they could impose “keep-out zones” that would threaten U.S. access and undermine the Artemis program, which aims to return astronauts to the moon in 2027. The order requires NASA to appoint a program leader within 30 days and expands on previous work with the Department of Energy to develop fission surface power producing at least 40 kilowatts of power. Since long-term lunar operations are estimated to require at least 100 kWe (100 kilowatts of electrical power, or about the consumption of 80–100 U.S. homes), nuclear power is seen as critical for sustaining life on the moon and enabling future Mars missions. In addition, Duffy issued a separate directive to speed up commercial space station development as the International Space Station nears retirement by 2030. (ANS thanks CNN for the above information)

+ SpaceX successfully launched the U.S. Space Force’s X-37B spaceplane aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from Kennedy Space Center on August 21, 2025, marking the start of its eighth mission. The booster, making its sixth flight, landed at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station just over eight minutes after liftoff. The Boeing-built X-37B, part of a two-vehicle fleet, has previously flown missions lasting between 224 and 909 days, though the duration of this new mission is undisclosed. This flight will test advanced technologies, including high-bandwidth laser communications with commercial satellite networks in low Earth orbit, offering faster and more secure data transfer than radio frequencies. It will also demonstrate a quantum inertial sensor, enabling spacecraft navigation in GPS-denied or deep-space environments. Space Force leaders emphasized that these experiments are key to improving the resilience, adaptability, and operational capabilities of U.S. space systems. (ANS thanks Spaceflight Now for the above information)

+ The newly launched NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite has successfully deployed a record-breaking 39-foot-wide radar antenna in orbit, unfolding it like a blooming umbrella after weeks of careful preparation. Launched on July 30, 2025, from India’s Satish Dhawan Space Centre, the satellite carries two powerful radar systems—L-band from NASA and S-band from ISRO—capable of penetrating clouds, vegetation, and snow to track changes on Earth’s surface. The massive gold-plated wire mesh reflector, weighing 142 pounds, was released through a carefully staged process involving joint-by-joint boom extension and the firing of explosive bolts. It took four days for the structure to fully extend before motors and cables pulled it into its final drum-like shape. NISAR will provide three-dimensional, high-resolution images of Earth’s land and ice, detecting surface shifts as small as fractions of an inch. By late fall, scientists expect the satellite to begin delivering transformative data, including 3D “movies” of environmental changes across the globe. (ANS thanks Gizmodo for the above information)

SpaceX has partnered with American radio astronomers to develop an automated system that reduces satellite interference with sensitive radio telescopes. The collaboration, led by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), created the Operational Data Sharing system and a Starlink algorithm that redirects satellite beams or mutes electronics during scheduled observations. This system, tested at the Very Large Array in New Mexico, allows telescopes to continue detecting faint cosmic signals despite thousands of satellites crossing overhead daily. Radio astronomers warn that interference from low Earth orbit constellations like Starlink could obscure signals from distant galaxies or even evidence of extraterrestrial life. With satellite numbers expected to rise above 100,000 by 2030, the need for protective measures is urgent. Researchers hope the system will be adopted worldwide and by other satellite operators, enabling astronomy and satellite internet to coexist. If successful, this approach could set a precedent for balancing technological progress with preservation of humanity’s window into the universe (ANS thanks Space.com for the above information)

Join AMSAT today at https://launch.amsat.org/

In addition to regular membership, AMSAT offers membership to:

* Societies (a recognized group, clubs or organization).
* Primary and secondary school students are eligible for membership at one-half the standard yearly rate.
* Post-secondary school students enrolled in at least half-time status shall be eligible for the student rate for a maximum of 6 post-secondary years in this status.
* Memberships are available for annual and lifetime terms.

Contact info [at] amsat.org for additional membership information.

73 and remember to help Keep Amateur Radio in Space!

This week’s ANS Editor, Mitch Ahrenstorff, ADØHJ
mahrenstorff [at] amsat.org

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Ohio State football returns to Ohio Stadium in one week, marking the realization of a childhood dream for one central Ohio native.

On Saturday, the Buckeyes will open up the season against the Texas Longhorns. First to take the field will be The Best Damn Band in the Land. For Gahanna native Joshua Ford, the season marks the realization of a childhood dream: being a drum major for Ohio State University.

Report: The most difficult town name to pronounce in Ohio and each state

“Throughout my entire childhood, I was just surrounded by Buckeye music, you know, going to games, and it really just shaped who I am today, just the Ohio State-loving guy that I am,” Ford said.

The honor runs in the family. He said the goal stemmed from his uncle, Brian Berendts, who was a drum major during the 1992-93 season.

“Then there was a drum major here, Konner Barr, in 2018-19. Just seeing them coming from the same high school I went to and family members that I was like, 'I really want to do this,' and that kind of sparked the whole idea,” Ford said.

Ford is a senior at Ohio State, but said the work toward drum major started well before enrolling as a Buckeye. He started attending Ohio State clinics in high school.

Ohio studying construction of new highway that would pass through Columbus

“You can always try and get your high tosses a little bit higher and a little bit more accurate. You can always try and twirl a little bit faster,” he said.

Now he’s gearing up to lead the marching band. That means Script Ohio, the strut down the field, and the famous back bend.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — After more than 15 years, NBC4's weekly political program, “The Spectrum,” hosted by Colleen Marshall, is getting a new look and a new name.

Starting Aug. 24, Marshall will host the inaugural episode of “Sunday Briefing.” Viewers can expect the same in-depth reporting, hard-hitting interviews and expert analysis they have come to trust, with more voices from across Ohio. NBC4 is expanding to include voters beyond central Ohio on our Nexstar sister stations' streaming and broadcast platforms.

In the first episode, Marshall will go one-on-one with Democrat Sherrod Brown in his first television interview since launching his comeback bid for U.S. Senate. 

She also talks to former Ohio House Minority Leader Allison Russo, who is vying for Ohio Secretary of State in her first statewide election. 

“Sunday Briefing” will examine how the election season could unfold as the pieces of the democratic ticket begin to fall into place. Detailed analysis of exclusive poll results from Emerson College will break down voter sentiments about the likely candidates on both sides of the aisle. 

Democratic strategist David Pepper and Republican strategist Mike Gonidakis weigh in on those polls and discuss whether Gov. Mike DeWine was right to send Ohio National Guard troops to support the federal takeover of Washington, D.C. 

Watch “Sunday Briefing” with Colleen Marshall, Sundays at 10 a.m. on NBC4.

GALENA, Ohio (WCMH) -- The incident is cleared, but residents of the Village of Galena in Delaware County were asked to stay inside or avoid the village square due to an investigation Saturday morning.

Delaware Sheriff's Office spokesperson Jamie Hopps said officials responded to a domestic incident in the square Saturday morning. Hopps said there was no threat to the public, but residents should avoid the area.

Around 10:15, Hopps said the male suspect was peacefully apprehended and is now in custody, with charges pending. On social media, the Village confirmed there were no injuries.

Residents already in the area were asked to stay inside. The square is home to several shops, and the spokesperson said the one nearest to the incident had not yet opened for the day when the investigation began.

Deputies were still actively investigating as of 9:30 a.m.

NEWARK, Ohio (WCMH) -- Four residents were hospitalized after a house fire in Newark early Saturday morning.

Licking County dispatchers said they responded to the 400 block of Tuscarawas Street around 7:20 a.m. Saturday on reports of a structure fire. Upon arrival, they found two people suffering from burn wounds in the front lawn.

Madison Township Fire Department, which assisted with the scene, confirmed the first two people were transported to a nearby hospital. Madison Township Fire said two others were transported shortly after.

The fire was contained as of 9 a.m. Fire crews are still investigating the cause.

Both victims were transported to an area hospital in unknown condition.

DELAWARE, Ohio (WCMH) – A Columbus man will serve at least 12 years in prison for responding to a breakup by setting her ex-girlfriend's family house on fire and running her car off the road.  

According to the Delaware County prosecutor, Alfredo Salinas-Rosas, 25, of Columbus, pleaded guilty to five of nine charges, including three counts of felonious assault, one count of aggravated arson and one count of trespassing in a habitation.

On Dec. 28, 2024, after his girlfriend broke up with him, Salinas-Rosas drove to her family’s residence, doused the front door in gasoline and set it on fire. The family extinguished the fire before it spread inside.

Alfredo Salinas-Rosas (Courtesy/Delaware County Jail)

The prosecutor’s office said that Salinas-Rosas then drove to another former residence of his ex-girlfriend and entered it in the middle of the night.

The following day, he drove to her place of employment and waited outside for her to leave. He followed her and rammed his car into hers several times, causing her to drive off the road, where her vehicle became disabled, court records noted.

Salinas-Rosas was arrested on Dec. 30 and indicted on nine charges the following month. He pleaded guilty in July, with one count each of aggravated arson, burglary, menacing by stalking, and criminal damaging dropped in the plea agreement.

A judge sentenced Salinas-Rosas to 12 to 14½ years in prison. The sentence includes 5 to 7½ years for the arson charge, two years each for the three felonious assault charges and one year for trespassing, all to be served consecutively.

Salinas-Rosas, who will receive 197 days of jail time credit, will then be subject to 2-5 years of post-release control.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – An American restaurant and steakhouse with a location in Polaris will soon launch an eatery near New Albany. 

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill will begin welcoming customers at 6036 N. Hamilton Road on Monday. The 6,000-square-foot restaurant, which was constructed on a previously undeveloped lot in the Hamilton Quarter retail center, will mark the national chain’s second central Ohio location. The first opened at 8760 Sancus Blvd. in 2014. 

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The chain describes itself as “polished casual,” sitting between a traditional casual restaurant and fine dining. The brand is known for its hand-cut, aged steaks and fresh seafood, which are seared on a wood-fired grill fueled by locally sourced lumber.

Firebirds also offers a variety of appetizers, including bacon deviled eggs, Philly cheesesteak egg rolls and seared ahi tuna. An assortment of burgers, tacos, sandwiches, salads and pasta dishes is also on the menu. 

The new location will feature the brand’s signature “FIREBAR,” which is a full-service bar that features a special menu from 2 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. The special menu includes small dishes such as fried cauliflower, prime rib sliders and chicken nachos. 

As with all Firebirds locations, the new Hamilton Quarter restaurant will feature an open flame visible from the dining room, where customers can watch chefs cook. 

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Firebirds has five other locations in Ohio, with three in the southwest part of the state and two in the northeast portion. Founded in 2000, the chain has spread to 67 locations across 20 states.

Firebirds near New Albany will offer dine-in, takeout and catering, and will be available on delivery platforms such as DoorDash. The restaurant additionally features a private dining room available for booking.

The new eatery will be open from Sunday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. 

Hamilton Quarter is also preparing to welcome the fast-food chain Culver’s as another dining option this fall.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – The Ohio Department of Transportation is studying the feasibility of constructing a new highway that would span from Toledo to Chesapeake, Ohio, and pass through Columbus. 

The agency is conducting a $1.5 million analysis to examine the creation of a corridor called Interstate 73. The highway would primarily run along U.S. 23 – existing portions of the route could be converted into I-73 lanes, depending on ODOT’s findings.

The study is looking into the proposed project’s potential routes and allocation of funding, along with economic and environmental impacts. The department will complete the analysis by the end of 2026. 

“It’s important to remember that this is not a commitment to build the interstate – but strictly informational,” an overview of the study states. “It arms the state’s decision makers with data so they can execute accordingly.”

I-73 is part of a proposed interstate highway project that would connect Michigan and South Carolina, using existing roadways and planned construction. The highway would run nearly 1,000 miles from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to Myrtle Beach while passing through Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia and North Carolina. 

• The National I-73/I-74/I-75 Corridor Association's proposed highway spanning six states. (Photo courtesy/i73.com)
• The National I-73/I-74/I-75 Corridor Association's proposed highway in Ohio. (Photo courtesy/i73.com)

A group called the National I-73/I-74/I-75 Corridor Association has been pushing for the development of the interstate for decades. The association claims the highway would relieve traffic congestion, create tens of thousands of jobs during its construction and provide coastal regions with a hurricane evacuation route. 

Rep. Dave Taylor (R-Ohio) introduced a congressional resolution expressing his support for I-73 in July. Taylor said southern Ohio needs infrastructure to support businesses such as the American Centrifuge Plant in Piketon. The site, which began operations in 2023, enriches uranium for use in nuclear reactors.

“An interstate through southern Ohio would not just help connect rural communities to the modern economy but would enhance our national security because of multiple key facilities and defense-related companies along the route,” Taylor said in a statement. 

Parallel to the I-73 study, the department is also working on a $2 billion plan to improve U.S. 23 from Worthington to Waldo by reducing traffic lights, adding interchanges and building overpasses. ODOT has not yet revealed a timeline for construction on these projects.

The I-73 study was funded through House Bill 54, Ohio’s transportation budget for 2026 and 2027 that took effect in June. 

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Around fifty vehicles were broken into in a Columbus neighborhood on Thursday night.

Columbus police say approximately fifty cars were broken into on Thursday night near an apartment complex. The break-ins were centered in close neighborhoods in the area of Holt Road and Alkire Road.

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According to video obtained by police, four unknown suspects wearing gloves and masks were seen driving a dark colored SUV in the targeted areas. Around forty-six residents were affected by the break-ins, police say.

Anyone with information on the break-ins or identification of the suspects is encouraged to contact the investigating detective at 614-645-1439.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Franklin Heights High School football game was evacuated after reports of shots being fired in the area.

According to a spokesperson from the South-Western City Schools District, Friday night's football game at Franklin Heights High School was evacuated out of an abundance of caution following reports of shots being fired.

The spokesperson said the incident was reported in the area of McCarley Drive, located on the south side of campus.

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"Event attendees are safe. The game has since been postponed as a result of the incident, while law enforcement remains in the area to investigate. We would like to thank our FHHS administration, the Franklin County Sheriff's Office, and guests for conducting a swift evacuation as part of our district-wide safety protocols," said the district in a statement.

The Franklin County Sheriff's Office (FCSO) responded to the incident. According to a dispatcher for FCSO, no injuries have been reported.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A group of adults is ready to fill some of the most in-demand jobs in Franklin County.

Friday, the first cohort graduated from the Columbus Urban League’s Franklin County Trades Academy. The participants were learning trades like carpentry, welding, plumbing, and more.

“Graduating today is a very proud moment for me,” Jamir Coleman said. “I knew that this was something I really wanted to do and that I was going to put a lot of dedication in and that it was going to pay off. But I didn't think that the payout was going to be, you know, speaking for my class, being the representation for the future, and things like that.”

This was a seven-week program. Leaders say this is key to economic development in Franklin County. Coleman is one of the graduates. He said he wants to become a carpenter.

“A lot of math, a lot of soft skills. But we went over financial literacy. We also did a couple of dexterity tests, things like that. So a lot of preparation for the future,” Coleman said. “I decided I want to do long-term work. Maybe become a foreman.”

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He said they learned more than just trades.

“Before this, I was kind of more of the quiet guy in the back, that I had my opinions and I spoke up when I needed to. But now I have the confidence to stand in front of a crowd and, you know, tell how I feel and really stand up for this program and be a mentor,” Coleman said.

Stephanie Hightower, the President and CEO of the Columbus Urban League, said the program captures the heart of the urban league.

“Our north star is how do we close the wealth gap? And we know that the trades industry is one of those opportunities where we can help close the wealth gap by getting those jobs that can get people into the middle class,” Hightower said.

She says they, in partnership with Columbus State, went to employers and said what jobs and skills are needed now. She said that's how they picked which trade skills to offer. She said the participants showed up every day, eager to learn, and everyone who started the program finished the program.

“They came, they understood the assignment. They're going to have opportunities for employment within the next 30 days,” Hightower said.

The program is supported by the Franklin County Commissioners. They will have three more cohorts by the end of their fiscal year and are accepting applications for the future.

GROVE CITY, Ohio (WCMH) -- As the war drags on between Russia and Ukraine, local Ukrainians are sharing their thoughts on a future peace deal.   

Today, Russia's foreign minister told 'Meet the Press' anchor Kristen Welker, there is no Putin-Zelenskyy summit scheduled. That's despite President Trump’s push for peace in the region.

The President of the Ukrainian Cultural Association of Ohio, Natalia Lebedin, shared that she has a more optimistic outlook following President Trump’s meeting with President Zelenskyy this week. That’s in stark contrast to her opinion of the summit with Vladimir Putin one week ago. She hopes this war can finally come to an end.   

“I am a lot more hopeful,” Lebedin said. “It was to me, it signaled something new, seeing all of those European leaders' support Zelenskyy as one of their own, acknowledging the importance of Ukraine. I think that was important for Americans to see.” 

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Natalia Lebedin is Ukrainian-American and has seen the destruction the three-year-long war has caused. In an effort to end the war, President Trump hosted a meeting in Alaska with President Putin and a bilateral meeting in Washington, D.C. with President Zelenskyy, along with European allies. Lebedin expressed what her idea of a peace deal would be.   

“A peace deal for Ukraine for me, it means security guarantees for Ukraine, sanctions and making Russia pay, taking frozen Russian assets to rebuild Ukraine,” Lebedin said. “So much damage, civilian infrastructure, ecological damage.” 

One of the main topics discussed in the meeting with President Zelenskyy was what will happen to 20 percent of Ukrainian territory that Russian troops control. Russia has pressed for Ukraine not to become a member of NATO. 

“They are on the forefront of modern warfare,” Lebedin said. “And we are a proven ally not only to Europe, but of course to America. But, yeah, the personal toll it has taken, I, I'm not sure I can describe the horrors of war.” 

All these meetings and discussions come as Ukrainian Independence Day approaches, on August 24. Lebedin noted there are plans to celebrate this weekend even though no deal has been reached.    

“We're so proud,” Lebedin said. “It's been 34 years of independence, and since 2014, hard-fought independence and freedom. Ukraine's history is one of great struggle, but we are proud and resilient.” 

That celebration will take place Saturday at "Today's church" in Grove City. 

MARION, Ohio (WCMH) -- Over a week after being stolen, a Yorkie puppy is back in his owner's arms and has been reunited with his mother.

The five-week-old puppy named Zeus was taken from his home in Union County, sparking a community-wide search. Now, thanks to a search warrant and a lot of helping hands, the tiny victim of crime is back home where he belongs. 

"It really breaks my heart because, you know, you have to be a pretty cold person to do such a thing," Zeus' owner Julie Cardone said. "And I don't understand the reasoning."

Cardone said she got up one morning and Zeus was gone. Because he's so young, Cardone said she feared the worst.

"The first thing you think of is it dead," Cardone said. "I mean, that's just reality because it was so little and you're like, it needs its mom. So, we knew time was of the essence because every time that went by, he wasn't with his mother getting the nutrients he needed, being a puppy."

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That's when Union County Juvenile Chief Assistant Prosecutor Melissa Chase stepped in, working quickly to secure a search warrant after numerous tips and a social media post pointed them in the right direction. 

"We had help from citizens, private citizens," Chase said. "We had help from two different law enforcement agencies. We had help from the juvenile court here in Union County. So all of us working together supplied different pieces of information."

Investigators with the Union County Sheriff's Office and Marion City Police tracked Zeus to a home in Marion. 

"We will investigate these," Chase said. "You know, this is a theft, and it is a crime, and it is a crime that matters." 

Now, the little pup is safe and sound with his family. 

"Everybody just pulled together," Cardone said. "I have people that I don't even know reaching out to me saying, I'm glad you got him back, we've been praying."

This remains an ongoing investigation. The juvenile suspect is now facing burglary and theft charges in Union County Juvenile Court. 

REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio (WCMH) -- Sailors spent the day lending a hand at a local food pantry in celebration of Navy Week.

Sailors arrived bright and early at the Heart Food Market in Reynoldsburg on Friday to help unload and bag produce before doors opened. Today's volunteering is a part of the week-long Columbus Navy Week. Around fifty to sixty sailors arrived in Columbus to engage with the community through educational outreach and community service projects.

The food pantry serves around 1100 to 1300 meals each week. NBC4 had a chance to speak with a local sailor from Logan County, Ohio, who was volunteering at today's event. Yeoman Submarine Petty Officer Second Class Brandon Jones described how Navy Week is the perfect time to show his home state what the Navy has to offer, while also giving back to the community.

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"We're really excited to be here in the city of Columbus. The last one was back in 2009, so it's great to be back. I'm from Ohio, so it's kind of wholesome at the same time as well, so it's a very good honor to be here," said Jones.

Workers for the food market expressed how the extra hands helped this morning's opening.

"They came in with a lot of enthusiasm and muscle. We said at our team meeting that our collective volunteer age is probably about fifty, and so having some young ones on site with some muscle and willingness to serve has been amazing," said Operations Manager Amy Cooley.

Navy week officially ends on Sunday, August 24, after the airshow at Rickenbacker International Airport.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A new business is set to open its doors in downtown Columbus, and it’s part of the city’s initiative to bring minority-owned, local businesses downtown.

Not only does the initiative offer more options for those who live and work downtown, but it’s also filling vacant ground-floor space.

Saturday, August 23, the fifth and final business in phase one of the Ground Floor Growth Initiative will open. The owner says he is excited to be a part of the growth downtown.

"It's one of them things that you hope to get, something like this one day," Restalgic Owner Nathan Johnson said. 

Nathan Johnson and his family are putting the final touches on Restalgic at 83 N. High St.

"For entrepreneurs like me and people who may not see how big the dream can grow, give it your all. Be optimistic," Johnson said. 

It’s a space that will sell beauty products, plants, art, and offer creative workshops.

"It marks the fifth ground-floor business to open over the course of the past 12 months and the last in phase one. So we're very excited to celebrate this milestone," Downtown Columbus Inc. Director of Communications Madison Cole said. 

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The Ground Floor Growth initiative was formed from community input that asked for more local, diverse retail downtown. Businesses in this program get rent support for the first three years, as well as advising services as they navigate operating downtown.

"The goal of this program was really to bring the best of Columbus to this downtown corridor. And it's really added to the vibrancy of this area and complemented a really growing residential district," Cole said. 

At Restalgic’s grand opening, they will have prizes, drinks, and snacks for customers who are among the first to stop by.

"The idea of having a brick and mortar was all about community originally. Right. But then we realized that more community is not just people that is local. Community is anyone who is willing to support, speak, and bring life into the business," Johnson said. 

Phase two of the growth initiative is already underway, with the city announcing two businesses that will open in the fall on Gay and High streets. 

Columbus City Councilmember Nick Bankston is leading this initiative and sent a statement saying: "The success of the Ground Floor Growth program is what happens when intentionality meets purpose. This program set out to pump life back into the heart of our city after a difficult time for our small business community. As phase 1 of this program concludes, we now have five brand new businesses providing unique services, goods, and experiences to our ever-growing downtown community. This was always meant to be step one of many to revitalize commercial corridors throughout the city, so I am excited to see what the future holds.”

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A Columbus police officer was relieved of duty after an altercation last weekend.

Columbus police said Officer Daimon Scales was relieved of duty after the altercation with other officers at a bar last weekend. Body camera footage showed a large group outside a Short North bar when a group of men got into an argument with what appeared to be a bar security officer.

According to the body camera timestamp, the altercation began just before 1:30 a.m. on Aug. 17. A verbal altercation led to an officer ]escorting the group of men across the street. Forty-five seconds later, the argument turned physical.

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The footage showed a man in a white shirt and red hat, identified as Scales, coming back to the front of the club before shoving an on-duty officer in the face.

"Officer Daimon Scales has been relieved of duty pending the outcome of an internal affairs investigation into conduct that occurred while he was off-duty in the early morning hours of August 17," a statement from Columbus police read.

NBC4 has asked for clarification on whether Scales is still employed with the department and receiving pay during the investigation process.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Students are heading back to the classroom, and the Center for Disease Control said one in five high school students reported being bullied in school last year.

A central Ohio woman started the Empower Our Youth Foundation to combat this problem. Tonya Kelly knows the impact of bullying well, both from being a fourth grade teacher and having to watch her daughter go through it.

“It was gut wrenching ... My daughter was a senior in high school. She was vibrant, she had great grades, she was a cheerleader and then all of a sudden you start seeing that anxiousness. You start seeing grades fall. You start seeing that hesitation to go to school,” Kelly said.

She was inspired to start her foundation after she spoke out about her daughter’s situation.

“It was very hard, but I think once I spoke out there was this community of families and people and kids who have been bullied,” she said.

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After getting her daughter help, Kelly began a mission to help other families who are navigating similar situations. She works with students all over the area teaching them self-empowerment and to stick up for each other.

“Stand up for your friends. Do not let them suffer in silence,” Kelly said.

She said it typically takes around 90 days for bullying to be uncovered. She encouraged parents to have daily check-ins with their children and be on the lookout for signs of bullying: a drop in grades, a change in mood or a hesitation to go to school.

She also helps parents get their children help including getting involved with the school or if it escalates even law enforcement.

“When the community is involved we have less problems. We know difficulties are going to arise but it allows us to share those experiences,” she said.

Kelly said her foundation also talks with children about not being the bully, and she urged parents to do the same.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- President Donald Trump spoke out Friday about a potential deal between the federal government and Intel, the chipmaker behind a massive project under construction in New Albany.

Trump said the government would take a stake in the business, which has been trying to right itself under the leadership of CEO Lip-Bu Tan, as it tries to balance both developing computer chips and manufacturing them. The twin facilities under construction in western Licking County, called fabs, were part of Intel's efforts under its previous boss to increase chip manufacturing in the U.S.

“I said, I think it would be good having the United States as your partner,” Trump said. “He agreed, and they’ve agreed to do it.”

"The City of New Albany congratulates Intel on the landmark agreement with the U.S. government, underscoring its vital role in advancing American technology and national security. This federal investment strengthens Intel’s commitment to expanding domestic chipmaking capacity while creating opportunities for jobs, education, and innovation here in our community. We are proud to support Intel’s success and the transformative impact it brings to New Albany and beyond," said New Albany Mayor Sloan Spalding in a statement.

Although Trump said the stake would be 10%, in a separate announcement, Intel said it would 8.9%, funded through the remaining $5.7 billion in grants awarded but not paid under the CHIPS Act and $3.2 billion awarded to the company as part of the Secure Enclave program.

“President Trump’s focus on U.S. chip manufacturing is driving historic investments in a vital industry that is integral to the country’s economic and national security," Tan said. "We are grateful for the confidence the President and the Administration have placed in Intel."

The Ohio One project was not directly referenced in Intel's news release. It was a cornerstone of the CHIPS Act passed by Congress under Trump's predecessor, Joe Biden, who attended the facility's groundbreaking event. Since then, however, plans to open have been delayed repeatedly, with a target date now sometime in the next decade.

NBC4 digital reporter Katie Millard and the Associated Press contributed to this report.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Friday night lights are ready to come back on across central Ohio. It's the first week of the high school football regular season, offering a fresh start for everyone taking the field.

Watterson and Olentangy Liberty enter the fall as defending state champions in Division III and Division I, respectively. Other schools have sights set on earning their own trophies in December.

Below is a list of games that will be featured on Football Friday Nite, entering its 34th year, at 11:15 p.m. A complete list of games in the state is at the bottom. Check back all evening for updated scores and highlights.

Week 1 Schedule

• Columbus Academy at Northland
• Berlin at Bishop DeSales
• Gahanna at Pickerington Central
• Chillicothe at Bloom-Carroll
• Big Walnut vs. Bishop Watterson (at Ohio Dominican)
• Scioto at Reynoldsburg
• London at New Albany
• Newark at Licking Heights
• Olentangy at Liberty (Game of the Week)
• Watkins Memorial at Kilbourne
• Westerville Central at Westerville North