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Early voting — both in-person and by mail — starts today, so you can now vote in the Nov. 2 general election whenever is convenient.

Details: The Franklin County Board of Elections at 1700 Morse Road is open 8am-5pm on weekdays through Oct. 22.

• Hours vary the week before Election Day.

We've seen little public progress in redrawing Ohio's congressional districts despite officials having already missed a recent deadline.

Why it matters: The results of this redistricting process will shape Ohioans' political representation in Washington, D.C. for the next decade.

• This is the first redistricting attempt since Ohio voters reformed the process via constitutional amendments in 2015 and 2018.

The new Hilltop branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library was abuzz with activity yesterday, just a few days removed from its grand opening at 511 S. Hague St.

• The library is now much larger and features an interactive children's area, a School Help Center for students and copious meeting spaces for adults.

Why it matters: Hilltop is the 12th Columbus Metropolitan Library branch to get a makeover since 2014, with more renovation projects on the way.

👋 Tyler here. I'm too far behind on my reading list as it is, so instead I checked out a couple of DVDs:

• "Tell Them We Are Rising: The Story of Black Colleges & Universities."
• "Mamma Mia!" for two reasons: It stars Meryl Streep and I don't need another reason.

Columbus woman Sacoya Cooper disappeared over a month ago, and her loved ones are canvassing the community and asking others to aid their search.

Why it matters: After the disappearance of Gabby Petito attracted international attention, many are putting a spotlight on other missing people — and pointing out that cases involving people of color and LGBTQ people are often overlooked.

Let's be honest: We don't need an excuse to enjoy a nice burger and a cold one.

• Burger & Beer Week, which kicks off today and benefits a local charity, at least gives us another one.

What's happening: Over 50 restaurant locations are participating this year, per the organizers at 614 Media Group.

Bus transportation in the Columbus area is about to get a bit cheaper and simpler for riders with changes coming later this fall.

Driving the news: The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) will institute price caps on bus fares and altering transfer rules to be more flexible for those traveling to multiple destinations.

It's that time again to look up and peep the changing fall colors.

Driving the news: This year's combination of good rainfall, sunny days and cool nights should result in a fabulous display of reds, oranges and yellows, Beth Christopher, a forester with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), tells Axios.

Construction will begin next year on a large-scale solar park located on the site of a former landfill in southern Columbus.

Why it matters: Local leaders are touting the project as part of a recent citywide emphasis on sustainable energy projects.