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Judge rips into Trump officials over tree removals at East Potomac golf course

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Marines eyeing Sikorsky's no-cockpit Black Hawk

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Nevada test sharpens U.S. nuke-detecting algorithms

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Longtime radio voice of the Blue Jackets has a new home

Bob McElligott is back with a new website and pair of podcasts.

The Blue Jackets are <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="back" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/10/01/columbus-blue-jackets-team-season-preview-2026" data-vars-content-id="603c5871-23d3-482e-a7b0-73d947ef1ffa" data-vars-headline="Longtime radio voice of the Blue Jackets has a new home" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/10/01/columbus-blue-jackets-team-season-preview-2026" target="_self">back</a>, but a voice many have come to associate with the team is now covering the team in his own new capacity. Driving the news: Former play-by-play broadcaster Bob McElligott recently launched <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Clear Breakaway" data-vars-click-url="https://link.axios.com/click/47787214.95/aHR0cHM6Ly9jbGVhcmJyZWFrYXdheS5jb20vP3V0bV9zb3VyY2U9bmV3c2xldHRlciZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1zZW5kdG9fbG9jYWxuZXdzbGV0dGVydGVzdCZzdHJlYW09dG9w/61143c39cd4dcd37e13a7294B32583e05" data-vars-content-id="603c5871-23d3-482e-a7b0-73d947ef1ffa" data-vars-headline="Longtime radio voice of the Blue Jackets has a new home" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://link.axios.com/click/47787214.95/aHR0cHM6Ly9jbGVhcmJyZWFrYXdheS5jb20vP3V0bV9zb3VyY2U9bmV3c2xldHRlciZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPWVtYWlsJnV0bV9jYW1wYWlnbj1zZW5kdG9fbG9jYWxuZXdzbGV0dGVydGVzdCZzdHJlYW09dG9w/61143c39cd4dcd37e13a7294B32583e05" target="_self">Clear Breakaway</a>, a website featuring pregame and postgame Q&amp;As, podcasts and other analysis.

Ohio gas prices fall as tax holiday takes effect

The tax break is helping, but bigger factors continue to move gas prices as well.

Money

Ohio drivers are already seeing results of the state&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="gas tax holiday" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/10/01/ohio-gas-tax-holiday-gallon-diesel-2026" data-vars-content-id="70f7c9db-af5f-40ee-8fbc-140d0fc03fd4" data-vars-headline="Ohio gas prices fall as tax holiday takes effect" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/10/01/ohio-gas-tax-holiday-gallon-diesel-2026" target="_self">gas tax holiday</a> — but there are bigger factors that affect the price at your gas pump.Why it matters: Prices may still fluctuate even with the tax break in place, gas price expert Patrick De Haan warns.

Orchestra getting kids into classical music

A new kid-friendly website teaches about instruments, composers and concerts.

Music

Baby Mozart&#x27;s growing up, and the Columbus Symphony Orchestra wants kids to be classical music fans for life.Strumming the news: The symphony recently launched <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a website" data-vars-click-url="https://csokids.org/" data-vars-content-id="cd7273ab-9854-4334-986c-abecb371c6b0" data-vars-headline="Orchestra getting kids into classical music" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://csokids.org/" target="_blank">a website</a> dedicated to making the music engaging for elementary-aged kids.

OSU med student takes on the Ironman World Championship

A former Ohio state champion swimmer, Matthew Marquardt aims to win the world's most grueling endurance competition.

An Ohio native hopes to win one of the world&#x27;s most grueling sporting events this weekend — before returning to Columbus to finish becoming a doctor.Why it matters: Matthew Marquardt is seeking to become the first American man since 2002 to win the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Ironman World Championship" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ironman.com/races/im-world-championship-kona" data-vars-content-id="346dae3e-2637-4449-a8ed-1a672a9e0893" data-vars-headline="OSU med student takes on the Ironman World Championship" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ironman.com/races/im-world-championship-kona" target="_blank">Ironman World Championship</a>, being held Saturday in <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kona, Hawai&#x27;i" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2019/10/14/ironman-world-championships" data-vars-content-id="346dae3e-2637-4449-a8ed-1a672a9e0893" data-vars-headline="OSU med student takes on the Ironman World Championship" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2019/10/14/ironman-world-championships" target="_self">Kona, Hawai&#x27;i</a>.

Buying a Columbus home keeps getting pricier

Things aren't getting any easier for homebuyers with mortgage rates spiking to their highest level in nearly three years.

Real Estate

More Columbus homes are on the market, but it keeps getting harder to afford one. Why it matters: Things aren&#x27;t getting any easier for homebuyers with mortgage rates spiking to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="their highest level" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/01/mortgage-rates-housing-sales" data-vars-content-id="97f76549-f7c4-4b4c-8934-83d4a08c7b9d" data-vars-headline="Buying a Columbus home keeps getting pricier" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/01/mortgage-rates-housing-sales" target="_self">their highest level</a> in nearly three years.

Inside South Bloomfield, Ohio's fastest-growing community

This Pickaway County village won't stay under the radar for long.

The road leading to South Bloomfield&#x27;s municipal building is a fitting metaphor: On one side, tractors harvest sprawling sod fields. On the other, modern homes line the horizon — and construction crews are still building more.Why it matters: This is the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="fastest-growing community" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/06/01/central-ohio-population-growth-census?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=sendto_localnewslettertest&amp;stream=top" data-vars-content-id="a67c8f90-c36f-41b9-92ae-a52638e4269a" data-vars-headline="Inside South Bloomfield, Ohio&#x27;s fastest-growing community" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/06/01/central-ohio-population-growth-census?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=sendto_localnewslettertest&amp;stream=top" target="_self">fastest-growing community</a> in all of Ohio, luring Columbus workers with vacant land, good schools and safe, affordable housing.<ul><li>The spike is redefining a once-sleepy Pickaway County village formerly on the fringes, where officials tell Axios they&#x27;re working to balance growth with preserving its character.</li></ul>

A Crew legend intimidated a female ref — fans want him fired

Federico Higuaín reportedly forcefully grabbed an official's hand and told her "this is a man's game."

Crew fans on social media are calling for the firing of legendary Crew player-turned-coach Federico Higuaín, who is accused of grabbing a female official and making a sexist comment.Why it matters: Higuaín, the head coach of Crew 2, the club&#x27;s developmental team, is one of the most recognizable and popular players in Crew history, making the backlash notable.

 4 Ohio educators worth treasuring on World Teachers' Day

Stories about a future president and a lifesaving hero.

Education

On <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Teachers&#x27; Day," data-vars-click-url="https://www.unesco.org/en/days/teachers" data-vars-content-id="cbb3645a-9491-47d8-a7a8-55f53bd11af8" data-vars-headline=" 4 Ohio educators worth treasuring on World Teachers&#x27; Day" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.unesco.org/en/days/teachers" target="_blank">World Teachers&#x27; Day,</a> we&#x27;re paying tribute to the inspiring stories of four Ohio educators:📺 Sandy Anderson, a sudden TV broadcaster.When a 1977 gas shortage led to Columbus school closures, Anderson and others stepped up to keep learning going.

The stories behind Central Ohio's 9/11 steel

Ground Zero artifacts anchor Hilliard and Westerville's first responder memorials.

When the Twin Towers collapsed 25 years ago, 200,000 tons of steel fell to the ground. Many of those mangled beams now stand again as public memorials — including in Westerville and Hilliard.Why it matters: As time passes, 9/11 is shifting from a recent, shared experience into <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a distant historical event" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/north-of-cincy/2026/09/10/teaching-911-attacks-ohio-schools-2026" data-vars-content-id="50311565-26a3-4230-8f01-f8cc79bcf9e1" data-vars-headline="The stories behind Central Ohio&#x27;s 9/11 steel" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/north-of-cincy/2026/09/10/teaching-911-attacks-ohio-schools-2026" target="_self">a distant historical event</a>.

Columbus eyes rezoning for a more walkable Northland

The land may be redeveloped for a walkable, suburban feel.

Denser, pedestrian-friendly development could be coming to Route 161 in Northland thanks to ongoing efforts to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="modernize zoning" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2023/04/13/columbus-plans-long-needed-zoning-overhaul" data-vars-content-id="cd3842f3-2c8d-4797-a08f-94e862946eca" data-vars-headline="Columbus eyes rezoning for a more walkable Northland" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2023/04/13/columbus-plans-long-needed-zoning-overhaul" target="_self">modernize zoning</a> throughout Columbus.Why it matters: Zoning determines what kind of development can happen on a land parcel, shaping how communities look, feel and function.

Intel's new timeline conflicts with promised deadline

The company is likely to miss a project deadline set by a state grant funding agreement.

Politics

After another round of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="delays" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2025/02/28/intel-ohio-one-chip-delayed-chip-factory-fab" data-vars-content-id="fc49253a-d065-4d95-b006-3d8014c36572" data-vars-headline="Intel&#x27;s new timeline conflicts with promised deadline" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2025/02/28/intel-ohio-one-chip-delayed-chip-factory-fab" target="_self">delays</a>, Intel&#x27;s Licking County project timeline now appears to be at odds with promises the company made to the state of Ohio.Why it matters: Intel has already received hundreds of millions of dollars from the state for the construction of its planned <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="$20 billion semiconductor factory" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2023/01/24/intel-ohio-one-chip-factory-stats-size-wendys" data-vars-content-id="fc49253a-d065-4d95-b006-3d8014c36572" data-vars-headline="Intel&#x27;s new timeline conflicts with promised deadline" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2023/01/24/intel-ohio-one-chip-factory-stats-size-wendys" target="_self">$20 billion semiconductor factory</a>.<ul><li>If Intel&#x27;s new projections are accurate, Ohio can decide whether to claw back funds or amend the agreement.</li></ul>

Spirit Halloween haunts former local stores 

The Halloween retailer has been climbing inside the vacated homes of a Columbus original.

Spooky season means the return of Spirit Halloween — and here in Central Ohio, the purveyors of costumes and ghostly decor are haunting the former homes of one of Columbus&#x27; recently departed companies.Why it matters: It just doesn&#x27;t feel like October until you drive by a big-box store you once knew and think, &quot;Wait, that&#x27;s a Spirit Halloween now?&quot;

Cleveland

Ohio ranks third nationally in school book bans

Stephen King was the nation's most-banned author, with 312 instances involving his books.

Ohio school districts recorded the third-highest number of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="book bans" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/dallas/2026/10/07/texas-book-ban-pen-america" data-vars-content-id="5d497672-5947-41d5-8b0a-bf177ed00296" data-vars-headline="Ohio ranks third nationally in school book bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/dallas/2026/10/07/texas-book-ban-pen-america" target="_self">book bans</a> in the country during the 2025-26 school year, according to PEN America&#x27;s annual <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="&quot;Index of School Book Bans.&quot;" data-vars-click-url="https://pen.org/report/book-bans-spotlight-2026/?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=sendto_localnewslettertest&amp;stream=top&amp;lctg=63883f95eb76627b3989208f" data-vars-content-id="5d497672-5947-41d5-8b0a-bf177ed00296" data-vars-headline="Ohio ranks third nationally in school book bans" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://pen.org/report/book-bans-spotlight-2026/?utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=sendto_localnewslettertest&amp;stream=top&amp;lctg=63883f95eb76627b3989208f" target="_blank">&quot;Index of School Book Bans.&quot;</a>Why it matters: The ranking comes amid continued disputes over what students should be allowed to read, as Ohio lawmakers, school boards and parents debate whether certain books contain inappropriate material.

When is your community's trick-or-treat night?

Not every beggar's night is held on Oct. 31 here in Central Ohio.

It&#x27;s a split calendar for trick-or-treating this year, with some Central Ohio communities holding &quot;beggar&#x27;s night&quot; on the Thursday before Halloween and some holding it on Oct. 31 itself.Between the lines: Why isn&#x27;t everyone on Halloween?

Meet Tater, Grandview's newly elected dog mayor

Central Ohio's most important pre-Election Day race has been decided.

We&#x27;re still a month from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Election Day" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/08/11/ballot-issues-2026-bexley-upper-arlington-south-western-levy" data-vars-content-id="ac7370cb-9e32-45d1-8ba4-a4811f3fa157" data-vars-headline="Meet Tater, Grandview&#x27;s newly elected dog mayor" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/08/11/ballot-issues-2026-bexley-upper-arlington-south-western-levy" target="_self">Election Day</a>, but one community has already chosen its new leader. 🗳️ State of play: Grandview pups have been <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="campaigning" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/09/24/grandview-dog-mayor-election-vote" data-vars-content-id="ac7370cb-9e32-45d1-8ba4-a4811f3fa157" data-vars-headline="Meet Tater, Grandview&#x27;s newly elected dog mayor" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/09/24/grandview-dog-mayor-election-vote" target="_self">campaigning</a> for the title of the city&#x27;s first-ever Dog Mayor.

Ohio blogger on trial over explicit Shrek image

D.J. Byrnes faces a criminal charge in a case testing the boundaries of political speech.

Ohio political blogger D.J. Byrnes is on trial for texting a state senator an explicit image of the cartoon character Shrek.Why it matters: The case has <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="attracted national attention" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fire.org/news/ohio-man-jailed-texting-shreks-penis-state-senator-your-questions-about-shrexting-answered" data-vars-content-id="edfbe4c2-475a-43d7-9b82-1dc0a426dd27" data-vars-headline="Ohio blogger on trial over explicit Shrek image" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fire.org/news/ohio-man-jailed-texting-shreks-penis-state-senator-your-questions-about-shrexting-answered" target="_blank">attracted national attention</a> from free speech advocates who argue that even vulgar criticism of elected officials is protected by the First Amendment.

Columbus volunteers sought for '28 Olympic soccer matches

Columbus is set to host men's and women's soccer matches at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field.

Sports

It&#x27;s probably too late to start training for the 2028 Olympic Games, but the event sure could use you as a volunteer.State of play: Columbus is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="set to host" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/02/03/columbus-ohio-host-2028-summer-olympics-soccer" data-vars-content-id="ac95c9e7-63ff-42e0-9609-f4353cba466f" data-vars-headline="Columbus volunteers sought for &#x27;28 Olympic soccer matches" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/02/03/columbus-ohio-host-2028-summer-olympics-soccer" target="_self">set to host</a> men&#x27;s and women&#x27;s soccer matches at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field.

Monday is Ohio's voter registration deadline

It's the deadline in order to vote in the 2026 general election on Nov. 3.

Monday is the last day to register to vote in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election.How to register: You can <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="do so online" data-vars-click-url="https://olvr.ohiosos.gov/" data-vars-content-id="16d18e4d-6261-438f-917f-1b1c6ddf2877" data-vars-headline="Monday is Ohio&#x27;s voter registration deadline" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://olvr.ohiosos.gov/" target="_blank">do so online</a> or at your <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="county board of elections office" data-vars-click-url="https://www.ohiosos.gov/directories/county-boards-of-elections" data-vars-content-id="16d18e4d-6261-438f-917f-1b1c6ddf2877" data-vars-headline="Monday is Ohio&#x27;s voter registration deadline" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.ohiosos.gov/directories/county-boards-of-elections" target="_blank">county board of elections office</a>.

New-look Blue Jackets hope for a winning culture shift

After the blockbuster trade of the preseason, can a younger, hungrier team compete for the playoffs?

The puck drops on the Blue Jackets&#x27; 2026-2027 campaign Thursday night at Nationwide Arena. What can fans expect from the often-floundering franchise?Why it matters: After narrowly missing the playoffs last season, preseason talk has been all about <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="changing" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nhl.com/news/topic/season-previews/columbus-blue-jackets-season-preview-2026-27" data-vars-content-id="37d343be-db5c-40cd-b6ab-0da4c1fa941e" data-vars-headline="New-look Blue Jackets hope for a winning culture shift" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nhl.com/news/topic/season-previews/columbus-blue-jackets-season-preview-2026-27" target="_blank">changing</a> the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="culture" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7624800/2026/09/24/blue-jackets-dressing-room-leaders/" data-vars-content-id="37d343be-db5c-40cd-b6ab-0da4c1fa941e" data-vars-headline="New-look Blue Jackets hope for a winning culture shift" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7624800/2026/09/24/blue-jackets-dressing-room-leaders/" target="_blank">culture</a> of a team that hasn&#x27;t made the playoffs since 2020.

Columbus weekend picks: Meatballs, music and a toddler rave

The Italian Festival returns, plus Ohio State football and an apple butter festival.

Things to Do

The leaves are turning, the air is crisp — it&#x27;s the perfect time to eat a meatball outdoors.🇮🇹 Our pick: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="The Columbus Italian Festival" data-vars-click-url="https://www.columbusitalianfestival.com/" data-vars-content-id="cc2f9218-14b7-4bcb-be30-a3560ee85520" data-vars-headline="Columbus weekend picks: Meatballs, music and a toddler rave" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.columbusitalianfestival.com/" target="_blank">The Columbus Italian Festival</a>.

One of Columbus' best pumpkin displays is back

Franklin Park Conservatory embraces spooky season with Pumpkins Aglow.

Franklin Park Conservatory gets spooky starting Wednesday with the return of <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pumpkins Aglow" data-vars-click-url="https://www.fpconservatory.org/exhibitions/pumpkins-aglow/" data-vars-content-id="0d586e20-68e3-4b84-bad2-c7bab639215f" data-vars-headline="One of Columbus&#x27; best pumpkin displays is back" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.fpconservatory.org/exhibitions/pumpkins-aglow/" target="_blank">Pumpkins Aglow</a>, its annual after-dark Halloween display. What&#x27;s inside: The conservatory reopens in the evenings to show off its grounds filled with &quot;pirates, spooky pumpkins, under-the-sea mermaids, and performing skeletons.&quot;

Cincinnati

Ohio fall events worth a road trip

From BLINK to giant pumpkins and medieval hell, these Ohio events are worth the drive.

Fall in Ohio doesn&#x27;t mess around. For the next two months, the state&#x27;s calendar is packed with giant pumpkins, glowing city streets, horse shows, haunted attractions and even a trip through the underworld.

What to expect when viral vegan chain Slutty Vegan comes to Ohio

Cincinnati is getting the viral vegan chain, so we taste-tested it in Atlanta.

Slutty Vegan, the viral and vulgar plant-based restaurant chain, will soon turn heads with new locations across Ohio.

One of the world's largest horse events returns to Columbus

The All American Quarter Horse Congress is expected to draw 650,000 people to Columbus over the next month.

In the big picture of sports and hobbies, horse riding remains a relatively niche activity — but the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="All American Quarter Horse Congress" data-vars-click-url="https://www.quarterhorsecongress.com/" data-vars-content-id="eeea771f-3e1f-4844-beed-f970ef24d924" data-vars-headline="One of the world&#x27;s largest horse events returns to Columbus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.quarterhorsecongress.com/" target="_blank">All American Quarter Horse Congress</a> returns to Columbus this week to buck that perception.Why it matters: The event will draw hundreds of thousands of people to the Ohio Expo Center for what organizers call the world&#x27;s largest horse show.

Hot Takes: Two transplants debate Ohio vs. Georgia

An Axios reporter and managing editor defend their adopted homes on food, traffic, weather and more.

Culture

I grew up in Georgia and moved to Ohio. Axios Managing Editor Delano Massey grew up in Ohio and moved to Georgia.The great debate: With our worlds colliding in Atlanta for a company retreat this week, we&#x27;re settling the question: Which state is better?

Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to Columbus

Meet fellow locals over dinner at a restaurant we hand-picked.

<a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Axios Social Club" data-vars-click-url="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" data-vars-content-id="bad22329-c901-486b-b26c-835903dc0853" data-vars-headline="Axios Social Club brings mystery dinners to Columbus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://axiossocialclub.dnnr.io/" target="_blank">Axios Social Club</a> is bringing readers together for dinner in Columbus&#x27; Short North Arts District on Tuesday, Oct. 6.Why it matters: Your city is full of interesting people you haven&#x27;t met yet. We&#x27;re making it easier to change that.

It's a hard time to be an Ohio craft brewer

Three recent Central Ohio closures highlight an increasingly difficult brewery landscape.

It&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Oktoberfest" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/09/10/weekend-picks-oktoberfest-film-festival" data-vars-content-id="0b9cd396-c8f0-43a4-88d6-9c2c3ae4ebb8" data-vars-headline="It&#x27;s a hard time to be an Ohio craft brewer" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/09/10/weekend-picks-oktoberfest-film-festival" target="_self">Oktoberfest</a> season, though Ohio brewers have reason for concern alongside celebration.Why it matters: Central Ohio&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="massive craft beer boom" data-vars-click-url="https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2019/12/20/the-decade-in-review-how-the-columbus-craft-beer.html" data-vars-content-id="0b9cd396-c8f0-43a4-88d6-9c2c3ae4ebb8" data-vars-headline="It&#x27;s a hard time to be an Ohio craft brewer" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2019/12/20/the-decade-in-review-how-the-columbus-craft-beer.html" target="_blank">massive craft beer boom</a> in the 2010s became part of Columbus&#x27; image and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tourism industry" data-vars-click-url="https://www.experiencecolumbus.com/meetings-blog/post/ale-trail-launches-in-columbus/" data-vars-content-id="0b9cd396-c8f0-43a4-88d6-9c2c3ae4ebb8" data-vars-headline="It&#x27;s a hard time to be an Ohio craft brewer" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.experiencecolumbus.com/meetings-blog/post/ale-trail-launches-in-columbus/" target="_blank">tourism industry</a>, but breweries are now struggling amid a post-pandemic decline in alcohol consumption.

Solo dining recommendations in Columbus

Tables for one are trendy, for quiet time or a chance to meet new people.

Food and Drink

We recently told you that tables for one <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="are trendy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/17/solo-dining-reservations-jump-opentable" data-vars-content-id="4bdf15e4-b3cd-46c0-bbf1-2369fc08a777" data-vars-headline="Solo dining recommendations in Columbus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/07/17/solo-dining-reservations-jump-opentable" target="_self">are trendy</a>. But what makes a restaurant solo-friendly depends on why you&#x27;re going in the first place.Dining the news: Eating alone is increasingly a choice, not a stigma to avoid, especially among <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="younger diners" data-vars-click-url="https://www.opentable.com/restaurant-solutions/resources/solo-dining-trends-and-tips/" data-vars-content-id="4bdf15e4-b3cd-46c0-bbf1-2369fc08a777" data-vars-headline="Solo dining recommendations in Columbus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.opentable.com/restaurant-solutions/resources/solo-dining-trends-and-tips/" target="_blank">younger diners</a>.

Weekend picks: Labor Day weekend is full of festivals

Obetz Zucchinifest, Columbus Greek Festival, GospelFest and more.

We hope you&#x27;re in a festive mood, Columbus — this long weekend is packed with an almost absurd number of local festivals.🥳 Our pick: Why choose just one?

Our favorite restaurant patios in Columbus

This list is perfect for National Eat Outside Day or any day.

It&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="National Eat Outside Day" data-vars-click-url="https://nationaldaycalendar.com/celebrations/national-eat-outside-day-august-31" data-vars-content-id="2e3b3c00-991e-41cb-a8e8-5931ffcb2a20" data-vars-headline="Our favorite restaurant patios in Columbus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://nationaldaycalendar.com/celebrations/national-eat-outside-day-august-31" target="_blank">National Eat Outside Day</a>, and our <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="recent trip to Amara" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/08/24/amara-restaurant-review-downtown-riverfront-menu" data-vars-content-id="2e3b3c00-991e-41cb-a8e8-5931ffcb2a20" data-vars-headline="Our favorite restaurant patios in Columbus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/08/24/amara-restaurant-review-downtown-riverfront-menu" target="_self">recent trip to Amara</a> has us feeling inspired with its perfect patio vibes.Dig in: We&#x27;ve got a few recommendations if you&#x27;re looking to celebrate.

Ohio political blogger found guilty for sending naked Shrek image

D.J. Byrnes committed telecommunications harassment when he sent image to state senator, a jury ruled.

A jury in Willoughby found Ohio Statehouse political blogger D.J. Byrnes guilty of telecommunications harassment Friday for sending a sexually explicit image of Shrek to state Sen. Jerry Cirino (R-Kirtland).Why it matters: The defense failed to persuade the jury that Byrnes&#x27; texts, which mocked Cirino for failing to secure the Ohio Senate presidency, are protected under the First Amendment.

Failed Tennessee execution puts Ohio death penalty back in focus

More than 100 people remain on Ohio's death row.

Tennessee&#x27;s failed attempt to execute Christa Pike is <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="renewing scrutiny" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/01/christa-pike-lethal-injections-drugs-pentobarbital" data-vars-content-id="fe43fc4f-99e5-496a-a057-6c0314c59e2d" data-vars-headline="Failed Tennessee execution puts Ohio death penalty back in focus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/10/01/christa-pike-lethal-injections-drugs-pentobarbital" target="_self">renewing scrutiny</a> of lethal injection — an issue with a troubled history in Ohio.Why it matters: Ohio still has the death penalty, but hasn&#x27;t carried out an execution in more than eight years.<ul><li>Gov. Mike DeWine <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="has cited" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/cleveland/2026/06/16/governor-mike-dewine-ohio-abolish-death-penalty" data-vars-content-id="fe43fc4f-99e5-496a-a057-6c0314c59e2d" data-vars-headline="Failed Tennessee execution puts Ohio death penalty back in focus" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/cleveland/2026/06/16/governor-mike-dewine-ohio-abolish-death-penalty" target="_self">has cited</a> Ohio&#x27;s persistent problems obtaining lethal injection drugs, and now says the death penalty should be abolished.</li></ul>

Ohio suspends gas tax for 90 days

Drivers should expect savings to start this weekend.

Gov. Mike DeWine on Thursday approved a three-month suspension of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="state gas tax" data-vars-click-url="https://tax.ohio.gov/business/motor-fuel-tax" data-vars-content-id="39c4ef05-9db6-4428-8918-4e739583e6f3" data-vars-headline="Ohio suspends gas tax for 90 days" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://tax.ohio.gov/business/motor-fuel-tax" target="_blank">state gas tax</a>.Why it matters: Ohio gas prices <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="remain high" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/08/04/columbus-gas-prices-are-climbing-again" data-vars-content-id="39c4ef05-9db6-4428-8918-4e739583e6f3" data-vars-headline="Ohio suspends gas tax for 90 days" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/08/04/columbus-gas-prices-are-climbing-again" target="_self">remain high</a>, but the tax holiday gives relief of 38.5 cents per gallon of gas and 47 cents for diesel.

Why some Ohio voters are seeing double at the mailbox

Election officials are looking to reduce confusion ahead of the Nov. 3 election.

Election

It&#x27;s &quot;Groundhog Day&quot; in some Ohio mailboxes. Voters are getting absentee ballot applications — then sometimes getting them again and again.Why it matters: Elections officials are looking to reduce confusion over the duplicate forms as the Trump administration seeks to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="restrict mail-in voting" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/24/trump-usps-federal-power-state-elections-mail-voting" data-vars-content-id="d304692b-1ab9-4d8c-b64a-92803b3339fe" data-vars-headline="Why some Ohio voters are seeing double at the mailbox" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/24/trump-usps-federal-power-state-elections-mail-voting" target="_self">restrict mail-in voting</a>.

Why Ginther wants to increase Columbus' rainy day fund

The mayor aims for $140 million in the fund by 2032. Here's what the fund is for.

Amid broad <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="economic uncertainty" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/16/diesel-export-ban-problem-gas-prices" data-vars-content-id="209d8461-900f-45db-875f-d8bd55eb15e1" data-vars-headline="Why Ginther wants to increase Columbus&#x27; rainy day fund" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/09/16/diesel-export-ban-problem-gas-prices" target="_self">economic uncertainty</a>, Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther wants to save tens of millions more for the city&#x27;s rainy day fund.Why it matters: In good times, a rainy day fund may seem like a large pool of unused funds — but without it, city services and essential operations are at risk and Columbus has less financial leverage.

Hardin, Wyche propose new Columbus data center guardrails

Proposed changes affect environmental protection, water use and decommissioning plans.

Columbus leaders are proposing a set of new guardrails on future data center projects.Why it matters: Data centers are critical to AI infrastructure — they&#x27;re also facing major public backlash <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="locally" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/09/02/data-center-fight-could-change-the-future-of-grove-city" data-vars-content-id="0f2add0c-f215-47bd-8a77-293c19528225" data-vars-headline="Hardin, Wyche propose new Columbus data center guardrails" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/09/02/data-center-fight-could-change-the-future-of-grove-city" target="_self">locally</a>, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="statewide" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/06/02/data-center-opposition-ohio-dewine-tax-breaks" data-vars-content-id="0f2add0c-f215-47bd-8a77-293c19528225" data-vars-headline="Hardin, Wyche propose new Columbus data center guardrails" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/columbus/2026/06/02/data-center-opposition-ohio-dewine-tax-breaks" target="_self">statewide</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="nationally" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/19/gop-data-center-memo-ai-election" data-vars-content-id="0f2add0c-f215-47bd-8a77-293c19528225" data-vars-headline="Hardin, Wyche propose new Columbus data center guardrails" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/08/19/gop-data-center-memo-ai-election" target="_self">nationally</a>.

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