New Columbus Zoo president and CEO Tom Schmid spent years helping zoos earn accreditation through inspections and staff mentoring.

• But now the man the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) named accreditation inspector of the year in 2011 finds himself in an ironic role reversal.

What's happening: A week after Schmid's Dec. 6 start date, the association stripped the Columbus Zoo of its accreditation for the first time in 41 years following a tumultuous 2021 marred by two scandals.

Why it matters: Schmid's arrival is a reset in leadership and culture. He says he'll work to not only restore the zoo's accreditation, but its reputation.

What he's saying: "Fundamentally I don't agree with it, but I do accept it," Schmid, who comes from the Texas State Aquarium, tells Axios regarding the AZA decision. "But we're moving forward. I've got much bigger fish to fry."

• "Our community and stakeholders trusted the former leadership and they let everyone down … I've got to build that trust back up. That starts with trust in me."

Meanwhile, the zoo is participating in the AZA's "pathway to accreditation" program and can reapply in fall 2022.

• It is also now applying to be a "sustainability partner" so it can still breed animals.

Between the lines: Since the zoo is currently working toward becoming accredited again, it isn't in violation of Ohio law and its animals can stay, the Ohio Department of Agriculture tells Axios.

The bottom line: At least for now, a visit won't change much for zoo-goers.

Schmid's other goals for 2022:

• Develop a strategic plan for the next three to five years.
• Plan an overhaul of the North America region's exhibits, with proposals coming in the next few months.
• Make the zoo more accessible to all central Ohioans.

What we're watching: The zoo is in talks with the Zoological Association of America (ZAA), a newer organization, as another accreditation option, Schmid tells Axios.

Yes, but: Some animal advocates say ZAA requirements aren't strict enough. Traditionally, the AZA is considered the "gold standard" for animal care.

Earlier this week, we asked readers about their tipping habits during the holiday season.

• We're happy to learn there aren't too many Scrooges out there.

What we found: Half of you say you'll tip your mail carrier this month, and most say they'll tip either their hairdresser or salon worker.

🍎 A few of you even plan to tip your kids' teachers. Hey, it couldn't hurt.

🥪 A Delaware sandwich shop named after President Rutherford B. Hayes will open next year just a stone's throw from where the Ohioan was born. (614 Magazine)

🏛️ Ohio lawmakers passed "permitless carry" legislation this week to allow anyone to carry a concealed weapon without needing a permit or training. (Ohio Capital Journal)

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) says alleged spying by its former Ohio chapter executive director dates back to 2008, among other new details shared Thursday. (The Columbus Dispatch)

🏈 Ohio State picked up a number of top recruits during National Signing Day Wednesday. (The Columbus Dispatch)

🎤 A Ohio singing group from rural Pettisville won this season of "The Voice." (WCMH)

The Franklin County Dog Shelter will again host its popular "holiday sleepover" next week, allowing folks to foster dogs in their homes from Tuesday through the Christmas weekend.

• Adoption fees are also reduced through Dec. 23 from $123 to $75.

Why it matters: The sleepover gives dogs a break from being in a shelter and gives staff insight into how they act in a home setting.

• And if you're paired with your perfect pooch, a "foster failure" is an option, with a significantly reduced adoption fee of just $18.

Yes, but: Adding a furry family member isn't a decision to take lightly. The shelter offers tips on the factors to consider.

Urban Meyer's disastrous tenure as head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars ended with a 2-11 record and a late-night firing that elicited jokes and scorn across the league.

• The former OSU coach's dismissal came hours after a former Jags kicker reported having been kicked by Meyer during a preseason practice.

Avert your eyes, Buckeye fans. It ain't pretty.

⛪ Watch Sister Act, a musical adaptation of the 1992 film, at the Short North Stage.

• Various dates through Jan. 2, 1187 N. High St., Columbus. $44-54.

🎁 Check out a Holiday Market with local vendors and a visit from Santa Claus at The Peak at Edison.

• Saturday and Sunday, noon-6pm, 781 Science Boulevard, Gahanna. Free!

🎅 See Santa & the Symphony, a sensory-friendly performance for young families, listeners on the autism spectrum or those with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

• 4pm Sunday. McCoy Center for the Arts, 100 West E. Dublin Granville Road, New Albany. $9.

💡 Check out our list of holiday events and light displays, as well as our favorite homes decked out with Christmas decorations.