Local
In a bold yet peaceful demonstration of civic engagement, a group of determined Ohioans gathered Tuesday in the Rotunda of the Ohio Statehouse to take action against the proposed amendment to H.B. 315. This amendment, which incorporates the controversial IHRA definition of antisemitism, has sparked widespread concern over its potential impact on free speech and the First Amendment.
The sit-in was carefully planned as a way to both garner media attention and directly address legislators. Sitting in a circle beneath the grand dome of the Statehouse, participants passed out call scripts and worked together to make phone calls and write emails to their representatives. This unique form of advocacy transformed the Rotunda into a hub of collective action, with citizens uniting their voices in the very space where decisions are made.
As representatives walked by, participants continued to make calls and send emails, ensuring their presence and concerns were impossible to ignore. This wasn’t just a call for attention—it was a clear message to lawmakers: “We’re here, we’re engaged, and we demand to be heard.”
Today, the RISE Together Innovation Institute expressed deep concern over Governor Mike DeWine’s proposal to reintroduce work requirements for Medicaid recipients in Ohio. This policy threatens to undermine the health and economic stability of thousands of Franklin County residents who are already struggling to make ends meet.
“All of us should have the healthcare we need when we get sick,” said Danielle Sydnor, CEO of RISE Together Innovation Institute. “Governor DeWine’s proposal will take away healthcare from thousands of people who are already struggling to make ends meet. Instead of expanding opportunity and making sure people are healthy, this policy will make it harder for people to get the healthcare they need.”
Potential Harms to Franklin County Residents
Residents will lose healthcare coverage: In 2019, the Commonwealth Fund estimated between 121,000 and 163,000 adults in Ohio could lose Medicaid coverage in Ohio due to Medicaid work requirements.1 That number is likely higher today since more adults without dependents are participating in Medicaid.
What: From the Darkness to the Light – A Solstice Concert
When: Saturday, December 21, 7:00 PM
Where: First Unitarian Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Road, Columbus, OH
Cost: Free (donations welcomed; proceeds support Food Rescue of Columbus)
On Saturday, December 21st, as the winter solstice brings us the darkest day of the year, a special event will light up hearts and minds with music, reflection, and community spirit. Hosted at the First Unitarian Church (93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus) at 7:00 PM, From the Darkness to the Light is an uplifting concert in the spirit of Simply Living’s values of connection, peace, and sustainability.
This is a press release from Smart Elections, published on Substack and elsewhere- editor.
This is a press release from Smart Elections, published on Substack and elsewhere- editor.
This is a press release from Smart Elections, published on Substack and elsewhere- editor.
This is a press release from Smart Elections, published on Substack and elsewhere- editor.
This is a press release from Smart Elections, published on Substack and elsewhere- editor.
Thursday, December 19, 6-9pm
Dick's Den, 2417 N. High Street
We will celebrate the 84th birthday of the the great singer/songwriter and activist Phil Ochs with an evening of his music performed by acts from the Columbus Ohio area. Phil once lived in Columbus, where he attended The Ohio State University and began his topical musical journey here. Please join us for this special night honoring this brilliant, unsung performer.
Hear songs by Phil and original music by:
Eric Nassau
Joanie Calem
Ed Forman
Barry Chern
Dan Dougan
Brian Clash
Join the "Small Circle of Friends" and hear music that is as relevant today as it was 60 years ago!
After nearly one year to the day when a signed agreement was made between City Attorney Zach Klein and the Whitehall City Attorney’s office for Whitehall to investigate Mayor Ginther’s exparte communication with Judge Stephanie Mingo, Whitehall City Attorney Brad Nicodemus finally disclosed his investigation report.
Mr. Nicodemus, in what many will view as a predictable biased decision, found that “with insufficient probable cause for obstruction of official business and interference with civil rights, neither charge will be filed with the court.”
The logic of his decision is not sound. Ginther obstructed justice and violated the constitutional rights of the parties by contacting the judge. In my opinion, the decision appears to be politically biased in favor of Mayor Ginther. This means the Mayor is free to interfere with any pending case.