TOP HEADLINES: What you should know on Wednesday, Feb. 4

As you grab that first or second cup of coffee this morning, here are three things you should know as you start your Wednesday:

🪪 Latest on Haitians and TPS: We are hearing from local folks about thousands of Haitians in the area keeping their status to stay in the country, and the mayor of Springfield and the governor of Ohio are adding their own comments.

🏛️ Lawsuit alleges ignored sexual abuse warnings: Two women who were sexually abused as minors by a former church music director have brought a lawsuit against the United Methodist Church in Ohio, alleging the church leaders did not do enough to protect them from the abuse, which began in 2012 and continued for years afterward.

⛹🏽‍♂️ Flyers end losing streak: Jordan Derkack made two free throws with 2.3 seconds to play to lift UD to a 72-70 win against St. Bonaventure last night at UD Arena, ending a four-game losing streak. You can read more in David Jablonski’s recap story, watch highlights and watch coach Anthony Grant’s press conference.

We have a lot more news for you today found below! If you have thoughts or feedback on this newsletter or other news tips, please let me know at jeremy.ratliff@coxinc.com.

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LOCAL NEWS

• Homeland Security agents visit Ponitz high school investigating alleged voter fraud

• Pothole season: What should drivers know and how can they file a claim in Ohio

LIFE

• Cedarville alumni couple captures moments from Olympic stadiums to wedding aisles

• Heart of the House: Inside Broadway Barrel House, a restaurant built on care, consistency and community

• Kings Island season passes revamped for 2026 season

CRIME & PUBLIC SAFETY

• Man accused of shooting mother multiple times in Harrison Twp. indicted

• Dayton man accused of breaking 13-year-old’s jaw pleads guilty

SPORTS

• Boys basketball: Centerville beats Springfield, earns share of eighth straight GWOC championship

• Men’s college basketball: Skaljac’s 19 points leads No. 23 Miami past Buffalo

• McCoy: Suarez can be productive in Reds lineup, but is he enough?

NATION & WORLD

• The Latest: Trump signs budget bill bringing an end to partial government shutdown

• Israel strikes Gaza, killing 19, mostly women and children, after saying Hamas violated deal

• Penny the Doberman pinscher wins the 150th Westminster dog show

HAPPENING TODAY

The 2026 Olympics take place this month, and preliminary events start today. If you plan to watch, we have an easy to follow schedule for you here.

In Other News

Vandalia man accused of filming juveniles in bathroom, downloading more...

Pothole season: What should drivers know and how can they file a claim...

OPINION: School levies becoming a substitute for reform in Ohio

OPINION: Elliot Forhan must drop out of Ohio Attorney General race

Man pleads guilty in false bomb threat in Huber Heights

About the Author

Jeremy Ratliff