Dublin • September 17, 2025
Good morning, Dublin. Downtown Columbus is getting a major upgrade with a $280 million courthouse project that will transform the corner of East Mound and South High streets. The eight-story, 340,000-square-foot building replaces the fenced-off Dorrian Commons Park and Karnes building, combining $130 million from voter-approved bonds with an additional $150 million from the city's capital budgetโbringing new life to a key downtown intersection after years of delays.
In the spirit of inclusion, Columbus City Council has unanimously established a new LGBTQ+ Affairs Commission to advise city leaders on relevant policies, with applications open through October 14. Meanwhile, food enthusiasts have a delicious reason to visit the Short North as Mecha Noodle Bar brings authentic ramen and pho with scratch-made broths to the area. Owner Tony Pham's cultural tribute offers both budget-friendly options (including $10 Tuesday specials) and a kid-friendly menu that makes this culinary addition accessible to all.
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๐๏ธ Downtown Columbus gets a new courthouse after years of delays. The eight-story, 340,000-square-foot building will be located at East Mound and South High streets, replacing the fenced-off Dorrian Commons Park and Karnes building. With a price tag of approximately $280 million, the project combines $130 million from a voter-approved bond package and an additional $150 million from the city's capital budget. The Downtown Commission will review the design at its September 23 meeting, while the current municipal court building from 1979 may be renovated for another use.
๐ณ๏ธโ๐ Columbus creates LGBTQ+ Affairs Commission to advise city leaders. The City Council voted unanimously to establish the 13-member volunteer commission that will recommend policies affecting the LGBTQ+ community. Council President Shannon Hardin, who sponsored the ordinance, acknowledged both supportive testimony and opposition to the inclusive initiative. Applications for commission positions opened September 15 and will close October 14, with appointments expected by year's end. Columbus follows Cincinnati, which became Ohio's first city to establish such a commission in June.
๐ Mecha Noodle Bar brings steaming comfort to Columbus' Short North. This chic eatery serves up authentic ramen and pho with scratch-made broths that simmer all day, alongside hand-rolled dumplings and pillowy bao. Owner Tony Pham created the restaurant as a love letter to his childhood spent in his parents' restaurant, infusing each dish with cultural heritage. Budget-conscious diners can enjoy happy hour specials under $20 and $10 signature bowls on Tuesdays, while families appreciate the kid-friendly menu with smaller portions and high chairs available.

Where: Columbus Zoo & Aquarium
When: $22.99-25.99
๐ฎ Experience the magic of the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival, a dazzling celebration of Asian culture returning in 2025! From July 31 through October 5, the Zoo will transform Thursday through Sunday evenings with over 70 stunning LED lantern displays featuring brilliantly lit animal scenes throughout the grounds. Visitors can enjoy custom performances, interactive photo opportunities, character meet-and-greets, and access to select Zoo rides including Adventure Cove and the historic Grand Carousel. While the Zoo's real animals rest for the evening, this separate ticketed event ($22.99-25.99) creates an unforgettable 7:30-10:30pm experience perfect for families and friends looking for a magical night out.
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