Columbus is facing growing pressure to keep its communities safe as police and fire departments struggle with staffing shortages and millions of dollars in overtime expenses. We're breaking down what city leaders are doing to address the problem, including a new police substation at Easton. Plus, a major injury shakes up the Ohio State Buckeyes, a local doctor explains what Pope Leo's lung cancer diagnosis means for nonsmokers, and a new international nonstop flight to Germany. We're also taking you inside the massive protests sweeping France, with Collin Dorsey sharing his firsthand perspective from Paris.
Columbus police and fire overtime crisis
0:01-07:25
Both Columbus Police and Fire are reportedly nearly $8 million over their respective overtime budgets. City Council is considering legislation to review spending ahead of the 2027 budget. Police say they're short about 200 officers, while firefighters report 120 vacancies. Both unions warn that cutting overtime without hiring more first responders could threaten public safety.
Heath City Council is considering a grant to hire six additional firefighters as emergency calls increase.
Columbus leaders are breaking ground on a new police substation at Easton at 10:30 a.m. Mayor Andrew Ginther and Police Chief Elaine Bryant will attend. The project comes amid ongoing concerns about safety in the shopping district, including large teen gatherings, as the busy holiday shopping season approaches.
Sports with Tyvis Powell
11:46-19:51
The Buckeyes are coming off a win, but quarterback Julian Sayin's reported injury raises questions about who will lead the offense next. Tyvis also breaks down the latest with the Guardians and Cleveland Browns.
Lung cancer awareness, Dr. Peter Kneuertz, OSU
20:06-28:26
Pope Leo's reported lung cancer diagnosis is bringing attention to a disease that can also affect people who have never smoked. OSU thoracic surgeon Dr. Peter Kneuertz joins us to explain lung adenocarcinoma, the importance of early detection, and other risk factors, including radon exposure and family history.
We also discuss OSU's Breathe of Hope awareness campaign and an upcoming October 31 event ahead of Lung Cancer Awareness Month in November.
Violent protests in France
33:30- 37:09
Massive demonstrations over education standards and the cost of living have escalated into clashes with police across France. Officials report approximately 550,000 protesters and 1,200 arrests. Buildings have been damaged, and fires have broken out as President Emmanuel Macron condemns the violence.
Collin Dorsey shares his firsthand perspective from Paris and what the growing unrest reveals about frustrations across the country.
Columbus's growing global connections
41:20- 58:04
A new nonstop flight connecting Columbus and Germany is being announced today. It comes as German pharmaceutical giant Bayer announces plans for a $2.2 billion manufacturing facility in New Albany, expected to create 600 permanent jobs.
One Columbus President Jonas Peterson says the region's strong job growth is being driven by affordability, talent, and its increasingly diverse economy.