🏝️ Columbus Is Getting Another Nonstop Flight To Paradise

Plus: 🍟 This Retro Gahanna Spot Is Headed For A Modern (Boring) Makeover

Author

Chelsea Wiley
June 17, 2026

In partnership with

Sponsored by the Greater Columbus Arts Council 🖼️
Explore Columbus through a new lens by checking out the arts-focused event calendar from Art Makes Columbus. From Columbus Symphony performances and Opera Columbus productions to concerts by nationally touring artists and local musicians playing intimate venues across the city, there’s always something happening. Discover the events that bring our community together through music, live performance, and more. For more info, head over to columbusmakesart.com.

Hello, Wednesday! Chelsea, here.

Columbus weather has been absolutely gorgeous the past few days, which makes it an odd time to start daydreaming about a tropical vacation. But winter has a way of sneaking up on us, and when it does, you'll have one more nonstop option for escaping it. Breeze Airways is adding direct service from Columbus to Punta Cana, putting white-sand beaches and warm Caribbean water just one flight away. Here's what travelers need to know about the new route.

🍟 This Retro Gahanna McDonald's Is About To Get A Modern Makeover
One of Central Ohio's most recognizable McDonald's is getting a major makeover. The retro Gahanna location with its giant golden arch is slated for demolition, bringing an end to what may be one of the last McDonald's Classic restaurants still standing.

⚖️ Gov. DeWine Says Ohio Should Abolish The Death Penalty
Gov. Mike DeWine is calling on Ohio lawmakers to abolish the death penalty, saying he no longer believes capital punishment deters violent crime. The announcement marks a major shift for the longtime Republican, who voted to reinstate the death penalty more than four decades ago.

Headlines 📰 

🍽️ The Refectory in Columbus is marking 50 years, reflecting on its evolution into a nationally recognized French restaurant known for its wine program and long-standing leadership under owner Kamal Boulos. (Columbus Monthly)

🚔 An Ohio man was arrested for allegedly participating in a plot to attack a White House UFC event using drones and firearms, according to federal authorities. (WOSU)

🍎 A Licking County orchard reopened after a fire destroyed its market last year, rebuilding with community support and resuming operations. (WCMH)

☀️ Weather: 83 and sunny with severe weather possible this evening.

Coming Up This Week 📆

Coming Up This Month 📆

Photo by David Heasley, courtesy of Columbus Arts Festival.

😎 The Best Things To Do in Columbus This Month
June is packed with reasons to get out and explore Columbus. From the Columbus Arts Festival and Pride celebrations to Juneteenth, concerts, baseball games, and more, we've rounded up some of the biggest events happening around the city this month.

Today's Photo 🤳

Instagram Post

💦 June is National Rivers Month, highlighting Ohio’s remarkable waterways. Did you know that the Ohio Scenic Rivers Program helps protect 17 designated rivers and over 940 miles of streams across the state?

Want your photo to be featured? Use #columbusnavigator or tag us!

Costco Shoppers Say This Gem Is "All You Need" To Remove Wrinkles

Women over 50 are calling Auvoria's Korean-formulated serum their secret to looking years younger without needles or expensive treatments. Experts say it targets the #1 cause of wrinkles many skincare brands ignore: collagen-signal breakdown deep beneath the skin's surface. Users report smoother lines, firmer-looking skin, and a tighter, more lifted appearance in as little as 4 weeks. It's become one of Costco's most talked-about beauty finds — and now you can try the same formula online without a membership.

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- Chelsea