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COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – The Columbus Division of Police said there have been 54 homicides in the city so far this year, the lowest year-to-date number since 2013.

Community and city leaders said it's a combination of things, from collaboration to accountability to community outlook. Although this is a positive thing, leaders said there are still four months left in the year, so they are cautiously optimistic.

Hot Chicken Takeover down to one central Ohio restaurant after closing another location

“It means our children's lives were not lost to violence in vain,” Mothers of Murdered Columbus Children founder Malissa Thomas-St.Clair said.

MOMCC has made its mission getting the city’s homicide rate under triple digits. It is a data-driven mission where they use the data to figure out where they are needed most.

“For everyone who is putting their best foot forward, mostly the community making the decisions not to kill anyone, that allows us to see the community wants differently,” Thomas-St.Clair said.

This week's data also shows no change from last week, meaning there were no homicides in the last seven days.

“Awareness is a big piece in allowing our community to know what is available specific to their needs,” Thomas-St. Clair said.

Cheesecake bakery relocates on Columbus’ East Side

Columbus Division of Police Assistant Chief Greg Bodker is crediting the division's homicide solve rate, which the department said stands at 80%, in addition to 26 cases from 2024 that have been solved.

“When you have such a high solve rate, you're identifying people that are responsible for killing other people,” Bodker said.

Bodker said felonious assaults are also down, specifically non-fatal shootings. However, he said the department responded to five non-fatal shootings over the weekend.

“Four of those we've identified, certainly victims and suspects, and the detectives are working through appropriate charges, and some of those folks have already been charged” he said. “In two of those instances, the shooters were juveniles, so they were under 18 years of age. Two of the five, our nonfatal shoot team responded to.”

CPDs non-fatal shoot team concentrates on solving those cases; the team currently works in only one of the city’s zones, but there are plans for that to expand.

Intel, increasingly optimistic about division behind Ohio plant, shakes up leadership

“It ripples out and it’s answers for the victims' families, it’s answers for suspects’ families, and it changes people's lives," Bodker said.

Both Bodker and Thomas-St. Clair said the work doesn’t end here, because there were still 54 lives lost.

“It means that the legacy we're trying to leave when it's time for our life on earth to be over, that there will be a pathway for others to walk in peace,” Thomas-St.Clair said.

MOMCC will hold its family fun festival this weekend to promote its message. The event is set for Saturday starting at 3 p.m. at 284 North 22nd Street.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio (WCMH) -- A man was arrested outside Pickerington High School North on Tuesday after police allegedly found a gun inside his car.

According to the Fairfield County Sheriff's Office, a school staff member reported "concerning behavior" inside a car parked near the school.

The school was placed on a Level II lockdown as the school's resource officer and members of the security team investigated the situation, which is when security officers found the gun, according to the sheriff's office.

In a statement, a Pickerington Local Schools spokesperson said an unloaded weapon, ammunition, and marijuana were found in the car.

"The students involved have been identified, and disciplinary action is being taken in coordination with law enforcement," the school's statement reads. "At no time was there a direct threat to students or staff. Student and staff safety remains our highest priority.”

The 18-year-old suspect is facing one charge of illegal conveyance of deadly weapon/dangerous ordinance in school safety zone. He is being held in Fairfield County Jail.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Less than a week after closing its Gahanna and Grandview restaurants, Hot Chicken Takeover has closed another central Ohio location.

The chain's Westerville eatery at 435 Polaris Parkway is no longer welcoming chicken enthusiasts, Craveworthy Brands, Hot Chicken Takeover's parent company, confirmed to NBC4. The closure means the brand is down to just one Columbus-area location in the North Market, after the company said on Sept. 6 that the Gahanna and Grandview Heights eateries have also shuttered.

Craveworthy CEO Gregg Majewski said on Tuesday that "the statement we previous shared still stands and reflects the care and purpose behind these decisions as we honor the spirit and legacy of the brand as was."

The chain's Westerville eatery at 435 Polaris Parkway. (Courtesy Photo/Hot Chicken Takeover)

Majewski had said "closing our Grandview and Gahanna locations was an incredibly difficult decision, but one made with care and purpose," and that Craveworthy is "honoring the spirit in which Hot Chicken Takeover was created, protecting the heart of the brand and ensuring its legacy lives on with the same warmth and hospitality that first captured Columbus' love."

The Westerville restaurant opened in early 2021, while the Grandview location launched in late 2022 and the Gahanna restaurant began welcoming customers in 2023. Craveworthy also shuttered Hot Chicken Takeover's eateries in Clintonville in July, in Easton Town Center in March and in Lewis Center in January.

Untamed Brands, Hot Chicken Takeover's former parent company, was purchased in May 2024 by Craveworthy, which also owns BD's Mongolian Grill, Dirty Dough, Flat Top Grill, Genghis Grill and more.

After the acquisition, Craveworthy announced plans to merge Chicago-based chicken concept Budlong and Hot Chicken Takeover together, creating a refreshed brand called "HCT: Southern Chicken." However, throughout the Columbus area, the brand chose to keep the original Hot Chicken Takeover name.

Known for its chicken sandwiches, the chain also serves chicken tenders, plant-based nuggets, and sides like mac and cheese, fries and coleslaw.

Last fall, Hot Chicken Takeover rolled out a new menu, featuring hand-breaded chicken made similar to how its chicken was made when the brand first launched in 2014. Among the new menu items were chicken-fried steak, homemade hushpuppies, cornbread and sweet hand pies.

NEW ALBANY, Ohio (WCMH) -- Intel announced key leadership changes on Monday, including the departure of a long-term leader and expanded responsibilities for the man who indirectly oversees Ohio's plant.

Since his appointment in March, CEO Lip-Bu Tan has shifted Intel's course significantly. This week, he announced four executive appointments and the departure of former interim CEO Michelle Johnston Holthaus. Holthaus was responsible for the half of the company separate from Intel Ohio One and had served 30 years with the chipmaker.

The changes expanded the role of Foundry CEO Naga Changradsekaran, who oversees the manufacturing division responsible for Ohio's plant. Intel is split between its manufacturing business, called Intel Foundry, and the business managing goods and sales, Intel Products. Changradsekaran will now also oversee Foundry Services, a move Tan said will streamline manufacturing.

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Streamlining and removing bureaucracy has been a major priority for Tan. He implemented mass layoffs and slowed down construction in Ohio to save money. Intel will debut its newest manufacturing technology in 2027, and Tan said they may have to cut Foundry and Ohio's investment if new customers don't surface.

In July, Foundry's future was rocky. But over the past few weeks, Intel executives have spoken at three industry events and sound increasingly confident in Foundry's success. The first two chats featured Intel CFO David Zinsner, and the third hosted John Pitzer, corporate vice president of corporate planning and investor relations.

Zinsner said Tan is getting more confident about Foundry succeeding. Both he and Pitzer said cost cutting measures are proving effective, and indicated it's been a strong financial quarter. Intel has struggled to combat declining sales and increasing costs, so a strong fiscal quarter would be great news for the chipmaker. Pitzer also said Chandrasekaran is a major part of Tan's strategy, a good omen for the Foundry.

Part of this revived confidence comes from a recent agreement between the Department of Commerce and Intel, spurred by President Donald Trump. The government agreed to deliver on promised $11.1 billion in federal funding that had been in limbo in exchange for about 10% equity in the company.

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Zinsner called the Intel arrangement with the Department of Commerce a "great deal" for Intel, the government and the American people. Although commerce officials said they will not pressure anyone to invest in Intel, Zinsner said the deal encourages the government to help Intel succeed.

"They're now somewhat of an endorser of Intel and certainly incentivized to help Intel be successful and I think that provides tremendous value," Zinsner said.

Zinsner said the mass layoffs also helped stabilize the budget, although he said it meant they had to get rid of valuable employees. He said the cuts were relatively even between Foundry and Products, largely targeting middle management. Zinsner said Tan cut Intel's 11 management levels by about half to make it easier to get changes approved.

Other leadership changes included a new appointment to lead the Data Center Group, and engineering and client computing appointments. Zinsner said the company is reviving its focus on AI, and that Tan will likely announce AI changes in the near future.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Six more bands were announced on Monday for next year's Sonic Temple music festival.

Electric Callboy, We Came as Romans, The Plot In You, Make Them Suffer, Bloodywood, and Conquer Divide have all been added to the lineup.

These bands join the six previously announced bands announced last week.

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This year's festival takes place from May 14 through May 17 at Historic Crew Stadium. Early Bird tickets are on sale now.

Each day's specific schedule will be announced at a later date.

Bands announced for Sonic Temple as of Sept. 9

• Attila
• Bloodywood
• Brand of Sacrifice
• Chelsea Grin
• Conquer Divide
• Disembodied Tyrant
• Electric Callboy
• Lorna Shore
• Make Them Suffer
• Paleface Swiss
• The Plot in You
• We Came as Romans

BEXLEY, Ohio (WCMH) -- East Columbus residents can enjoy a familiar sweet treat at a new location, with The Bearded Baker opening shop on Main Street last Wednesday.

"We have also seen plenty of new faces, whom we cannot wait to have as regulars," Matt Estep, founder of The Bearded Baker, said. "We truly cannot thank the community enough for how welcoming they have been."

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Estep has been in the Columbus restaurant industry for 20 years, and officially began The Bearded Baker in 2021. Estep said he set out to create high-quality cheesecake, and grew from a one-man operation to a full staff during his years at East Market. The Bearded Baker's final day at the market was on June 21, and Estep's crew spent the summer preparing for it's new brick-and-mortar bakery on East Main Street.

Knowing there was a chance to grow, Estep said they searched thoroughly before deciding on the new location. He said they wanted to stay on Columbus' East Side because that's where they began, and they did not want to be too far from their loyal customers.

"When my fiancé toured the space for the first time, she came back to me in tears -- tears of joy," Estep said. "We knew then that this would be our new home."

• Main Street location opening day (Courtesy photo / Alec Broderick)
• Courtesy photo / Alec Broderick
• Courtesy photo / Alec Broderick

Just like at their old location, Estep and his crew sell cookies, pineapple upside down cakes and various baked goods, but are best known for their cheesecakes. Sold in their entirety, by the slice, or in mini form, the cheesecake flavors rotate frequently.

At the opening last Wednesday, the shop offered traditional cheesecakes like original with fruit and key lime. They also sold rarer flavors, including cake batter, brown butter pecan and toasted sweet potato. The cheesecakes are chilled in a cooler, but The Bearded Baker proudly does not have any freezers to guarantee freshly baked goods.

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Estep said the response so far has been "amazing" and a lot of customers have said the new location is even more convenient. He said he hopes to cultivate a bright and friendly space with strong customer relationships.

"Our new location has been so filled with love and support, making it truly feel like home," Estep said.

The new location is at 2918 E. Main St. Closed on Mondays, the shop serves baked goods between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- After a 70-0 trouncing of Grambling State last week, Ohio State will face a bit of a tougher opponent in Week 3.

Coach Ryan Day will address the media to discuss the Buckeyes' preparations for Saturday's home game against Ohio. You can watch his comments as they unfold in the player above.

The Bobcats are 1-1 after a 17-10 win over West Virginia at home last Saturday, marking the program's second win over a Big 12 program in three years.

First year coach Brian Smith knows that the top-ranked team in the nation will be Ohio's toughest test yet. But he also said that the pressure is on the Buckeyes, not the Bobcats.

"It puts the pressure on them, which is a nice change," Smith said during his weekly press conference Monday. "Because I do believe that when you are the number one team in the country, and with the money that is invested into top ten programs in the country every single year, there's an expectation of not only winning but the manner in which you win. So there's expectations from outside the program and also within."

The expectations are also high for Julian Sayin to perform at quarterback after his four-touchdown outing on Saturday against the Tigers. The sophomore went 18-of-19 for 304 yards, earning him Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors.

Kickoff for Saturday's game is set for 7 p.m. with the game streaming on Peacock.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Across central Ohio, communities are preparing solemn ceremonies and moving tributes to mark the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

From flag displays to memorial stair climbs, each event offers residents an opportunity to pause, reflect, and honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost, as well as the first responders and service members who risked and gave their lives that day.

The commemorations include several large public gatherings, such as Columbus’s annual Patriot Day ceremony at the National Veterans Memorial Museum, the rededication of Hilliard's restored First Responders Park and Worthington's Patriot Day 9/11 Remembrance. These events ensure the memory of 9/11 remains alive in Ohio, uniting communities in remembrance, reflection, and gratitude for those who served and sacrificed.

Capitol Square Memorial Flags

Ohio Statehouse West Plaza through noon on Sept. 12

• Flags are now on display at the Ohio Statehouse to honor the 2,977 victims of the Sept. 11 attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and United Airlines Flight 93. From an aerial view, the arrangement of the flags on the west lawn symbolizes the World Trade Center towers with two long rectangles. Additionally, a center gap memorializes the Pentagon with its distinctive shape and an open area signifies the field in Pennsylvania.

Statehouse lawn in Columbus, Ohio with flags for Patriot Day (Adobe Stock) Central Ohio Fire Museum 9/11 Bell Toll

260 N 4th St., Columbus, on Sept. 11, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

• In honor of the lives of every first responder who made the ultimate sacrifice on Sept. 11, 2001, the Central Ohio Fire Museum will begin to toll its historic bell at 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane hit the World Trade Center. A solemn tribute to the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and all emergency personnel who lost their lives in service to others that day. This is a day of remembrance, reflection, and fellowship. All members of the community are welcome to stand in honor of these heroes.

City of Columbus Patriot Day Ceremony

National Veterans Memorial Museum in the Great Hall, Sept. 11 at noon

• The City of Columbus is partnering with National Veterans Memorial Museum for its annual Patriot Day ceremony to honor all who lost their lives, including first responders and Veterans who served on that tragic day 24 years ago. The ceremony will take place in the Great Hall at noon and is free to attend.

Hilliard restored First Responders Park rededication

Hilliard's Station Park amphitheater, Sept. 11 at 9 a.m.

• The community is invited to gather on Sept. 11 to rededicate First Responders Park. The park features original artifacts from sites in New York City, including a section of subway rail and twisted steel beams from Ground Zero.

Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel will deliver the keynote address. The ceremony will include remarks from Hilliard Chief of Police Michael Woods, Norwich Township Fire Battalion Chief Heith Good, and former State Senator Stephanie Kunze. Students from the Hilliard Darby High School Polyphonix Choir will perform the National Anthem, and the Norwich Township Bagpipe Band will play a prelude. The event will conclude with a wreath-laying ceremony at First Responders Park, conducted by the joint Hilliard Police-Norwich Fire Honor Guard. This event is free and open to the public.

First Responders Park (Courtesy: City of Hilliard) Madison Township Fire Department 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony

Motts Military Museum, 5075 S. Hamilton Rd., Groveport, Sept. 11, 8 a.m.

• This meaningful event will include a formal ceremony, guest speakers and a moment of silence to pay tribute to the first responders, service members and civilians affected by the events of that day. The community is invited to come together in remembrance and unity.

Marysville 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony

Fire Station 272, 209 S. Main St., Sept. 11 from 9:50 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

• Join the Marysville Fire Division as they honor and remember those who lost their lives on Sept. 11.

Ohio State University 9/11 Stair Climb Event

Ohio Stadium, on Sept.11, check-in begins at 5:15 a.m.

• Ohio State University’s Department of Military Science and Leadership's stair climb is symbolic of the 110 floors of the World Trade Center towers. This serves as a powerful reminder of the heroism displayed by the firefighters, police officers, and emergency personnel who faced unimaginable challenges that day. Participants will climb the equivalent of 110 flights of stairs within the stadium, honoring those who perished and supporting those who continue to serve our communities. Please register in advance.

Ohio Department of Public Safety 9/11 Climb

Historic Crew Stadium, Sept. 11, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

• The public is invited to participate in the 3rd Annual 9/11 Climb at Historic Crew Stadium, honoring the sacrifice of 412 First Responders who died during the 9/11 attacks. Register online.

Upper Arlington Fire Division 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb

Marv Moorehead Memorial Stadium, Sept. 14, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• The Upper Arlington Fire Division is hosting its first 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb. Participants will climb 2,200 steps, the same number first responders took as they raced to save lives on Sept.11, 2001. Every step is a tribute to the 343 firefighters and countless others who gave everything that day. The event is free. Register here: https://bit.ly/4oftgSF

Worthington Patriot Day — 9/11 Remembrance

Village Green, Sept. 11 at noon

• Gather with the Worthington community to commemorate the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and recognize first responders, volunteers and others who protect safety and freedoms. Remarks include keynote speaker and Worthington resident Major General David B. Johnson, who serves as the Assistant Adjutant General for Air in the Ohio National Guard.  Mayor Scott Holmes, Fire Chief Mark Zambito and Police Chief Steve Mylett will also offer comments and reflections on this solemn day of remembrance. The event is free.

CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio (WCMH) — A man driving a tractor was struck and killed at Pickaway County intersection Monday afternoon.

According to the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office, the communications center received a call at 1:44 p.m. regarding a crash involving a tractor and a vehicle at the intersection of Walnut Creek Pike and Hagerty Road, located in Walnut Township, north of Circleville.

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Deputies arrived and learned that a man was driving his New Holland Tractor TC40D eastbound on Hagerty Road before stopping at the intersection at Walnut Creek Pike. As he began crossing the intersection, he was struck by a 2006 Nissan heading southbound on Walnut Creek Pike.

The driver of the Nissan was taken to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the tractor, 71-year-old Roger Diehl, of Ashville, was taken to Grant Medical Center by Circleville EMS. He was pronounced dead later Monday evening.

The PCSO, which was assisted by the Harrison Township Fire and EMS, Circleville Fire and EMS, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, continues to investigate the crash.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Rambling House Music Bar, an Old North venue that has welcomed Columbus artists for more than a decade, has set a closing date.

Located at 310 E. Hudson St., the bar announced on social media it will be shutting its doors on Oct. 1, after co-owner Geoff Wilcox said in June that the bar would be listed for sale. The announcement said Rambling is still searching for a buyer, and it would "provide favorable terms to anyone committed to reopening the music venue."

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"Community isn't a building. It's the people that make it," the social media post said. "For 11+ years, Rambling House Music Bar has been a gathering place for some of those amazing individuals, indescribably talented artists and the most magical memories imaginable."

Located at 310 E. Hudson St., the bar announced it's shutting its doors on Oct. 1. (Courtesy Photo/Rambling House Music Bar)

Shows at Rambling will run as scheduled through the closing date and artists with upcoming performances planned through 2026 will be hearing from the bar's booking team, the announcement said. Those who have purchased tickets for a show past the closing date will automatically receive a refund.

Rambling House Soda, the bar's affiliated craft soda company, will remain open.

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"We are overflowing with gratitude for you. Help us close this chapter the right way by coming out to show love to your favorite faces behind the bar, at the door and in the sound booth," the post said. "Bring your support for the amazing artists who will be on the Rambling House stage being a part of what we do best for a little while longer."

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – The City of Gahanna is considering revitalizing its Creekside Plaza by adding an amphitheater, splash pad and other amenities. 

Located at 117 Mill St. in the heart of Gahanna, the plaza houses retail shops, restaurants and apartments in addition to hosting a variety of community events. Now, about two decades after its construction, city officials want to refresh the mixed-use hub.

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Gahanna Mayor Laurie Jadwin presented a preliminary concept called "Gahanna Creekside Reimagined” at a city council meeting last month. The proposed project came about while city leaders worked on a flood improvement plan that has been underway since 2020, and includes updates required by FEMA, according to Jadwin. 

“As we have gone through this process of understanding, OK, what does this flood-proofing work look like, we have recognized that Creekside itself is in need of an overall refresh,” Jadwin said.

Along with flood-proofing, the proposal calls for updates to the district's upper and lower plazas, trail improvements and improved accessibility for people with disabilities.

The flood work plan includes mitigation efforts along Big Walnut Creek and within the parking structure adjacent to the plaza, which needs to be protected from creek overflow, the proposal says. The city intends on installing a flood barrier in the garage and a creek bank erosion control system. 

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Other updates in the proposal include an amphitheater and splash pad in the lower plaza, as well as a redesign of the existing water fountain. It also suggests improving accessibility on local trails, the lower plaza and Mill Street.

The project additionally calls for replacing the red brick that currently spans the upper plaza and Mill Street with more neutral concrete flooring, along with installing shade structures in the upper plaza. 

• Renderings of the proposed updates to Gahanna's Creekside Plaza. (Photo courtesy/City of Gahanna)
• Renderings of the proposed updates to Gahanna's Creekside Plaza. (Photo courtesy/City of Gahanna)
• Renderings of the proposed updates to Gahanna's Creekside Plaza. (Photo courtesy/City of Gahanna)
• Renderings of the proposed updates to Gahanna's Creekside Plaza. (Photo courtesy/City of Gahanna)

The total cost of the proposed project is estimated between $18.9 million and $22.9 million, with the mandatory flood-proofing work representing just over $5 million of the price tag, according to the presentation. 

If approved, the proposal would be added to Gahanna's capital improvements plan, a financial tool the city uses to leverage public funds for major investments, according to Gahanna’s website. 

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Gahanna Senior Director of Operations Kevin Schultz estimated the project would likely take at least 18 months. Jadwin said city officials are discussing how they would support local businesses through the process.

The city will hold a meeting where residents can provide feedback on the suggested updates on Sept. 24 at the Creekside Conference and Events Center from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- An Ohio school district's contested transgender restroom policy was constitutional before the Statehouse passed a law restricting bathroom use, a federal appeals court ruled last month.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit decided on Aug. 26 in a 2022 lawsuit by national group "American First Legal," which alleged Dayton-area Bethel Local School District violated the religious liberty of parents and students when a trans student was permitted to use the girls' restrooms. Watch a previous NBC4 report on the suit against Bethel schools in the video player above.

A three-judge panel ruled that arguments made by American First Legal on behalf of the parents and students are now moot given the policy is no longer in place since the enactment of Senate Bill 104, legislation signed into law by Gov. Mike DeWine last November, requiring academic institutions to set separate bathrooms based on students' "biological sex."

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However, the judges said in their opinion that Bethel's policy was constitutional before S.B. 104, as it was "applied neutrally, without respect to a student's religion" and students "had the option to use the single-occupancy restrooms if they found sharing communal restrooms with a trans student incompatible with their religious upbringing."

"Because the bathroom policy was neutral and generally applicable, it is not subject to strict scrutiny," the judges said. "Under that standard, we hold that, when it was in effect, the policy was constitutional so long as it was rationally related to a legitimate government purpose."

The Sixth Circuit's August decision came after the suit was dismissed in 2023 by Ohio District Judge Michael Newman, who ruled the organization's claim lacked standing and that Bethel schools' action did not infringe on the parents' free exercise of religion. Soon after, American First Legal appealed Newman's decision to the Sixth Circuit.

The trans student joined Bethel Middle School in January 2020 after enduring bullying and harassment for being trans at her previous school district in Fairborn, according to previous court documents. Before stepping foot on campus, the student's family said they informed the school's administration that she was trans and opted for single-occupancy restrooms.

Problems began when the student realized only two of the five single-occupancy restrooms on campus were accessible and caused her to be tardy to class. Using these restrooms also singled her out as trans, the documents said.

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After nearly a year of attending Bethel, the student and her mom asked school administrators if she could begin using the girls' restroom. Court documents state the middle school's principal told the student in December 2021 that she could start using the girl's bathroom after winter break. 

However, American First Legal wrote in the complaint that Bethel's Board of Education made this change "in secret to avoid community opposition" and announced the new policy at a meeting in January 2022 without public discussion, deliberation, or voting. 

Bethel students against the policy held "their urine and [avoided] using the restroom at school if at all possible" out of fear "that they [would] be exposed to the opposite sex," the document said. The complaint also said forcing Muslim students "to use intimate facilities with members of the opposite biological sex is like forcing them to eat pork."

American First Legal asked the U.S. Department of Education to investigate Bethel schools in March for allegedly violating a January executive order from President Donald Trump that also bans a trans student from using a restroom consistent with their gender identity.

"By continuing to allow boys to use girls' restrooms and locker rooms based on their 'gender identity,' Bethel School District is blatantly defying common sense, federal law, state law, and President Trump's executive orders," said Ian Prior, America First Legal senior adviser, in a statement. "If Bethel wants to continue to live in a make-believe land where one's sex is just a guesstimate, it should do so without federal funding."

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The Sixth Circuit's August ruling reaffirmed that Bethel no longer maintains the bathroom policy, and that there are no students currently enrolled who openly identify as trans.

When arguing before the Sixth Circuit in October 2024, school district attorney Taylor Knight emphasized that the district never restricted the students and parents, and said the policy only allowed the trans student to use the school's bathrooms just as other students could.

"[The trans student's] risk is, every time she shows up at school to go to the bathroom and is using the restroom that she gender identifies with, it's going to be a problem for her," Knight said. "But, for the religious students, they only have a problem if [the trans student] is in the bathroom at the same time they are."

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Declawing cats could become illegal in Ohio if a recently introduced bipartisan bill is signed into law. 

Senate Bill 252, introduced on Sept. 3, would ban declawing in the state, along with any other procedure that would alter the normal function of a cat’s toes. Declawing refers to an operation that removes a cat’s claws through the surgical amputation of the last bone of each toe, typically for the purpose of preventing the animal from scratching people or furniture. 

Although Sen. Hearcel Craig (D-Columbus) does not have a cat, he said he was inspired to introduce the bill alongside Sen. Al Cutrona (R-Canfield) after pet owners in the state brought the issue to lawmakers. 

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“We're able to bring parties together where there are deep concerns, and of course with our animals,” Craig said. “We have lots of families that care deeply about their pets … and so this is an issue that we were deeply concerned about.”

The bill would allow a veterinarian to declaw a cat only if they determine it to be medically necessary, such as in cases of a recurring infection or injury. Vets who declaw a cat under these circumstances would be required to file a written statement with the state’s veterinary medical licensing board within 10 days of the surgery, including information on the purpose of the procedure and lab reports demonstrating why it was medically necessary.

The vet’s statement must also include the name, address and phone number of the cat's owner, as well as identifying information about the cat. Vets would also be required to give owners a copy of this form. 

Under the legislation, anyone who illegally declaws a cat would face fines of $1,000 on the first offense, $1,500 on the second offense and $2,500 on the third or any subsequent offense. 

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The nonprofit Humane World for Animals, which has worked on nationwide legislative efforts to ban cat declawing, assisted lawmakers with drafting the proposal after they reached out for assistance, according to its Ohio director Mark Finneran. 

“Many people get their cats declawed without realizing how painful it can be for their animals,” Finneran said. “Imagine cutting off your fingers at the last knuckle.”

Finneran said declawing procedures can result in tiny bone fragments being left behind in the paw, causing long-term pain for cats. The surgery can also result in nerve damage and arthritis. 

If the bill passes, Ohio would join five other states that have banned declawing, including New York, which in 2019 became the first state to do so, along with Maryland, Virginia, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Several cities across the country have also enacted bans, including Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. The procedure is also illegal in a variety of European countries and Canadian provinces. 

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Although many pet owners declaw their cats in an attempt to avoid unwanted behaviors, Finneran said the procedure can actually result in more biting, aggression and soiling outside of the litter box. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals states these effects may occur because of pain or insecurity due to the animals not having their natural defense mechanism. 

“When you have conversations with people about what cat declaw it is and some of the alternatives that are out there to avoid scratching on furniture or whatever else it is, most people come around and realize that it's not the best choice for their animals,” Finneran said. 

In other states that have considered declawing bills, proponents of the procedure have claimed it allows for more cats to have homes. They argue without declawing, shelters may fill up with cats being surrendered due to scratching, potentially leading to increased euthanasia rates.

However, Finneran said there are a variety of other ways to help prevent cats from scratching furniture, including offering scratching posts as an alternative. He did note owners may have to try out different types of scratching posts to see what their cat prefers for the best results.

Owners can also apply double-sided tape to furniture, which cats generally avoid scratching, according to Finneran. He said plastic caps that go over a cat’s nails, which can be applied at home or by a vet, are another option. 

Twenty One Pilots drummer, wife announce pregnancy

NBC4 reached out to the Ohio Veterinary Medical Association to inquire about its position on the bill; the organization said it is reviewing the legislation and will work with the sponsors once it has completed its "due diligence" on the matter.

SB 252 awaits a committee assignment and its first hearing. Sen. Casey Weinstein (D-Hudson) is currently the only other co-sponsor of the legislation. 

“We want to have lots of conversation and testimony from the public regarding this,” Craig said. 

The bill marks the second animal rights bill introduced by Cutrona this year. In February, he introduced a bill that would increase the penalties for animal cruelty. 

WESTERVILLE, Ohio (WCMH) - Westerville City Schools has revisited a Released Time Religious Instruction policy about one year after rescinding the previous policy effectively banning programs like LifeWise Academy from their schools.

Westerville City School's Board of Education voted last year to rescind district policy and end LifeWise Academy operating programs in the district, but House Bill 88, which went into effect in April 2025, made RTRI programs like LifeWise unable to be banned in Ohio's public schools.

Schools no longer able to stop groups like LifeWise from sending items back with kids

Westerville City Schools Chief Personnel and Policy Officer Scott Reeves read the first version of a new RTRI policy at Monday night's school board meeting.

"This policy provision, where participating students' absences will be excused during least time, we identified that the release could occur up to one class period per week, excluding core curriculum, and we had to define curriculum, which is considered to be all graded curriculum, state approved standards,” Reeves said, addressing the school board. “And our policy must allow for students to return to school with program material from their release time instruction.”

The program rules will be very similar to previous rules, if not identical. Parents must give written permission for students to participate and students can only participate once a week.

"No outside organization or staff member or student representing an outside organization may distribute or pose literature on that organizations that have on district property, either during or after school hours, without the permission and prior review of the superintendent, simply means students are welcome to bring material back, but we ask that they keep them secure and refrain from distributing them to other students, not partake in their religious instruction," Reeves said Monday.

Report: Ohioans paying more for healthcare without receiving proper value

Reeves went on to say district leadership met with LifeWise Academy leaders several times to ensure they were on the same page with the policy and expectations.

Meanwhile, LifeWise Academy - Westerville posted on its Facebook page, "We are excited to welcome back students to LifeWise classes this week!"

Monday night's board meeting was a first reading of the new policy, so no action was taken. A vote will take place at a later date.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – A new report found Ohioans are paying more for healthcare, but not receiving the value for the cost.

A report by the Health Policy Institute of Ohio ranks the state at 44th out of 50 states in terms of overall health value.  

“Health value is calculated by looking at essentially whether we are getting what we're spending in terms of health outcomes,” HPIO Healthcare Policy Analyst Brian O’Rourke said. “So, for Ohio families, a low health value ranking means we're generally spending a lot of money on healthcare, but despite all that spending, we're not seeing better health outcomes.”

According to the report, health care costs take about 10% of the income from more than two million Ohio families. In 2023, one in five Ohioans admitted to having a difficult time keeping up with paying their medical bills during the year, preventing families from reaching their full health potential. 

“We know that increased financial insecurity can lead to really poor health outcomes and the development of mental health conditions,” O'Rourke said. “So that's like a big concern, you could also see people dropping their insurance because they feel like they can't pay the premiums anymore.”

 The report shows Ohio is in the lower percentile for in-patient hospital expenses per day and Medicare spending per beneficiary, which can lead to more people avoiding the doctor.

“When people avoid care because they can't afford it, all of them were then more likely to see even worse health outcomes down the road as more severe disease develops,” O'Rourke said. “And that's also more expensive to treat, which means potentially even bigger medical bills for families down the road.” 

But there are tools to improve the state's health ranking. Experts suggest investments in enhancing access to mental health care, increasing price transparency, or limiting how much health care entities can charge for certain services. 

“If there aren't any changes, I think what we'll continue to see is it's just going to continue to eat a bigger proportion of the budgets of Ohio families,” O'Rourke said. “When you already think about how many people are kind of right on that line of being able to afford food and housing and potentially childcare if you have young children, just, again, like I mentioned before, make people have to decide between two different, you know, living necessities.”

One positive aspect of the report is that Ohio does have better rankings when it comes to access to health care than other states.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Leaders at the Ohio Statehouse are marking the 24th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks.

Volunteers are installing flags on the west lawn of the Statehouse; each flag represents one of the 2,977 victims killed in the attacks at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and United Airlines Flight 93.

When seen from above, the design represents the Twin Towers, with a space in the shape of the Pentagon, and an open strip representing the field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, where Flight 93 went down.

The display is open to the public from 7 p.m. Monday until noon on Friday, Sept. 12.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Columbus City Council reconvened after its August recess to pass a variety of legislation, including support for addiction prevention and affordable housing. 

So far this year, preliminary data show 152 overdose deaths in Franklin County; this comes as the county has seen a decrease in overdose deaths each year. Now council is approving funds to keep the downward trend going. 

Council approved thousands of grant dollars for the Rapid Response Emergency and Addiction Crisis Team and with overdose deaths decreasing after a spike during COVID, the team is seeing that work pay off. 

Winning Powerball ticket sold at northeast Columbus store

“The number of people that they impact on a yearly basis is significant,” Columbus City Councilmember Emmanuel Remy said. 

RREACT is made up of people from Columbus fire, police and other agencies throughout Franklin County. The team engages with people who struggle with alcohol or substance use disorders, connecting them with treatment and resources.

“People that have, you know, might be faced with overdose and then no alternative and not knowing where to go, this team gets in there and they really triage the event and make sure that those people are on a path to recovery,” Remy said. 

A part of this team, and what received funding Monday night, is family case management and trauma support: support for loved ones impacted by overdoses. The Department of Public Safety said the funding is part of a federal grant. 

“Our alternative response has been growing as we continue to make sure that we answer every single call the right way every single time, and so we're going to continue, we won't stop until we figure that out and we're going to continue to expand the services,” Remy said. 

Ohio Bobcats ready to paint Columbus green

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, resources can be found here.

Funding for mental health

Council is also investing in mental health resources, as suicide is the second leading cause of death for children ages 13 to 18 in Franklin County, according to the Franklin County Suicide Prevention Coalition’s most recent report. 

Now, federal money will support youth in the community struggling with mental health. Columbus Public Health said 70 young people between the ages of 10 and 24 died by suicide in Franklin County in 2022 and 2023. 

On Monday night, nearly $87,000 was approved for the youth suicide prevention grant program. The money covers the next year and will be used to train youth on how to handle their emotions and conflicts, train adults on warning signs, and work with school partners to reach school-aged children. 

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“Our youth today are our future,” Columbus Public Health Commissioner Dr. Mysheika Roberts said. “One day, they're going to be in my seat. We need to invest in our future, but we also need to invest in our present by pouring into them now to make sure they're mentally healthy as well as physically healthy.” 

Columbus Public Health is hosting a suicide prevention awareness walk on Sept. 27. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, resources can be found here. 

City continues affordable housing push

Affordable housing was also on the agenda, as a million-dollar restoration project took a step forward with the approval of $1.2 million for the restoration of two Hilltop buildings. 

The restoration is part of the city’s Zone-In plan, which aims to increase housing opportunities in Columbus. The properties in question are decades old, owned by Hilltop residents, and in need of restoration. 

Councilmember Nick Bankston said the investment would help redevelop affordable housing and business space in a key corridor of the city. The two buildings sit on West Broad Street in the Hilltop section and will be redeveloped by Hilltop RISE, a private community development corporation working in the Hilltop. It’s also on the intersection of West Broad Street and South Westgate Avenue, which will be a stop on the LinkUs bus project that aims to connect more neighborhoods to downtown. 

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“A lot of times when we talk about affordability, we simply only talk about the rental side and the housing side of things,” Bankston said. “But when we talk about neighborhoods that are being revitalized, we also do talk about affordability in those commercial spaces to ensure that that small business has an opportunity to thrive and opportunity to grow.”

There will be 10 housing units across the two buildings. The development company said the goal would be to get local businesses into the commercial space when it is complete.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Saturday will be the battle of the Ohio teams at Ohio Stadium as the Ohio Bobcats travel to Columbus to face the No. 1-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes.

There is a strong Bobcat alumni network in central Ohio, and leaders of the network said the energy for this weekend is already high.

Katie Arnold, the president of the Central Ohio Bobcat Network, thinks a lot of the tailgating space at the Horseshoe will be covered in green. 

Winning Powerball ticket sold at northeast Columbus store

The central Ohio alumni chapter is one of the biggest, if not the biggest, Bobcat networks in the country. 

“I'm pumped,” Arnold said. “We're just coming off this huge sellout game where we beat West Virginia. I mean, we are all high on adrenaline. And I'm so excited to see what we can bring to the Horseshoe against those Buckeyes.”

Arnold said that on Friday, the group will host its block party, an annual fundraiser at Combustion in Pickerington. She said it is kind of a pep rally to get everyone traveling for the game excited for Saturday. Then, on Saturday before the game, the Bobcat Bash, which is sold out, will take place.

“I think, this weekend, we're going to see a lot of green rolling around,” Arnold said.

Arnold said something that makes this network special is its proximity to Ohio University – “hOUme.”

Twenty One Pilots drummer, wife announce pregnancy

“Here in central Ohio, we're so close, so we can go back home, if you will, and visit any time we want, and that's kind of a really special place to be,” she said. “I think alumni is a huge term for a lot of people, but I feel like Ohio is forever, right, and so you get to be a part of that family for the rest of your life. And I think it's really special because I don't know many people that have the connections that we have as Bobcats.”

Arnold said the alumni network works hard to give back to both communities, holding the Bobcat Blitz for about a week, collecting donations for the Linden Community Center.

“So right now, we are asking people to donate toiletry items at a lot of our drop off locations,” she said. “So you can go to Bobcat Sports Bar in Grandview, you can go to Jackie O’s on Fourth, and go to Homage Short North.”

The last day to donate is Tuesday. The drop-off locations are:

• Combustion Brewery and Taproom Pickerington
• Combustion Brewery and Taproom Clintonville
• Jackie O’s on Fourth Brewery
• Bobcat Sports Bar
• Homage Easton Town Center
• Homage Short North
• Ohio University’s Dublin Integrated Education Center
• Konneker Alumni Center Athens

Arnold said the donations will be dropped off Thursday and members will spend time getting to know the community.

“So we will be also eating with them, doing line dancing, playing games to get more involved with our community,” Arnold said. 

Arnold described what it's like getting a group of Bobcats together.

Athenaeum Theatre’s owner cancels its shows at historic Columbus venue

“It's kind of dynamic and I would also say a little explosive, right?” she said. “Like everyone's talking about where they used to go eat and where did they go on Court Street, where did they live? What was their favorite item? Right? I like doing the multiple generations. I can be with a ‘20 grad and still be able to communicate and really connect with a ‘70s grad. So I think that is what we have outside of a lot of other places is it takes you can talk to anyone. It takes nothing and you're able to converse with everyone. So yeah, I do think it's a little explosive and a little nostalgic for everyone. “

She said she is hoping for an upset for Saturday's game.

Arnold said if you are not going to the actual game, there are plenty of bars around central Ohio that will be hosting viewing parties. For more information on places to watch the game, check out the alumni Facebook page by clicking here.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – The Ohio Department of Aging hosted a town hall on Monday seeking community feedback as it aims to help Ohioans live longer, healthier lives.

The department hosted the event at Lifecare Alliance, with dozens of Ohioans, including caregivers, providers, and family members, all advocating for those seeking to age with dignity and autonomy.

It was the fifth of six town halls the department is hosting across the state. With the 60+ population expected to double globally by 2050, organizers said it's important they capture voices from all areas of Ohio. The feedback will be used to develop the state's 2027-2030 State Plan on Aging.

Among the potential concerns for Ohioans were better in-home care, transportation, and access to food.

"There's one thing to knowing what the data says, but there is quite another in sitting next to someone and hearing what their story is, knowing what they're challenges are, and then also hearing what their ideas are," Director of the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging Katie White said. "That's what I think is so powerful, is yes we'll talk about challenges and needs here, but the best part is hearing the resiliency, hearing the ideas that folks have and how we can make things better."

Local partners and advocates like the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging said community members' needs vary by location, and the programs and services they provide aren't one-size-fits-all.

"What's happening in an urban area might be very different than what's happening in a rural area, right?” White said. “So again, these town halls, going across the state, are so crucial so that we make sure we hear the nuisances. We make sure that we're not just assuming we know what the challenges are, but really listening to the differences."

Among the programs provided by the Ohio Department of Aging are home and community-based, long-term support services, as well as initiatives to promote health and wellness throughout the lifespan.

For more information on those programs and services, visit the state’s Department of Aging by clicking here.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The drummer of Columbus-based band Twenty One Pilots announced he and his wife are expecting.

Drummer Josh Dun and his wife, actress Debby Ryan, announced the pregnancy in an Instagram post on Tuesday.

"dun&dun +1," the post reads, accompanied by several photos showing the couple holding a pair of small checkered sneakers, a cartoon drawing of the couple, a sonogram picture, and more.

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The couple, who married in December 2019, reside in the greater Columbus area.

Twenty One Pilots, consisting of Dun and vocalist Tyler Joseph, is set to release its new album, Breach, on Friday. The band is set to kick off a U.S. tour on Sept. 18 with a sold-out show in Cincinnati; the tour is currently set to wrap up on Oct. 26 in Los Angeles.

Ryan, who starred in the Netflix series "Insatiable," is set to costar in the film "Famous" alongside Zach Efron and Bill Pullman.

This will be the couple's first child. No due date or gender was posted.