Good morning, this is Columbus Local Pulse for Friday, September 19th, 2025.
We wake up today to cool, clear skies, the first real hint that fall is right around the corner. Expect our high to reach the upper 70s with abundant sunshine across the region, and just a gentle afternoon breeze. It looks like a near-perfect Friday for those heading outdoors or attending after-school events, so let’s make the most of our late summer warmth before the chill of autumn really sets in.
Our top story this morning is one that’s shaken the east Columbus community. Yesterday, police responded to a shooting on Kelton Avenue. One woman, 22-year-old Janaysia Lewis, was killed and two others were injured. Officers have charged Zandra Wignal in connection with the incident. Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward, and the area remains under heightened patrols today as police continue their investigation. City officials remind everyone that addressing gun violence remains a top priority for Columbus leadership.
A quick note from crime and public safety: after last weekend’s Ohio State football game at the Shoe, law enforcement is highlighting the work of K-9 Cedric, from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Cedric and his handler were on duty at Ohio Stadium, working with the Columbus Division of Fire to sweep for explosives, a critical security step for events that welcome tens of thousands of us to campus. Cedric brings not only safety but a little joy, visiting Wolf Creek Local Schools as a resource officer when he’s not on stadium patrol.
There’s also disruption in our cultural calendar today, as fans of country music are still buzzing about the late-breaking announcement. Country star Cody Johnson has cancelled his Columbus shows at Nationwide Arena this weekend because he has lost his voice, with doctors advising immediate rest. Johnson promises to work with the venue to reschedule, so ticket holders are encouraged to hold onto those passes for new dates in 2026.
If you’re planning your weekend, there’s no shortage of things to enjoy. Scioto Fest runs today and tomorrow at Audubon Metro Park, offering Yappy Hour, camping, and live music all set beside the river. Over in Hocking Hills, families are gearing up for the Jack Pine Glass Pumpkin Festival, just an hour’s drive and the perfect spot to see local artists in action, with plenty of outdoor fun for kids and adults alike. Back in the Short North, bring your appetite, as the Ampersand Supper Club is closing its original spot after Sunday, with food lovers making the most of a final weekend slurping ramen at one of our city’s hot spots.
On the business front, job market indicators remain steady, with local employment hovering near last month’s numbers, and a few small retail shops opening their doors along High Street, especially near Clintonville and Old North. Real estate agents report a stable market, with most homes listed under two weeks before selling—good news if you’re thinking about making a move this fall.
Our students and athletes bring plenty for us to cheer as well. Columbus City Schools’ girls volleyball teams posted strong wins this week, and Worthington Kilbourne’s debate team just took top prize at a statewide meet last night. Congratulations to our young scholars and athletes making waves.
Let’s close with a feel-good story. Our city’s annual Safety Festival drew hundreds of families to the Milo-Grogan Community Center earlier this week, where first responders invited kids to climb into fire trucks, learn about safety, and even meet therapy dogs. It’s little moments like this that remind us how much community matters in Columbus.
Thanks for tuning in, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a beat from the heart of Ohio. This has been Columbus Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates. This has been a Quiet Please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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