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Tag: Madison MacArthur

  • Central Ohio Drug Task Force seizes $800,000 of fentanyl

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Central Ohio Major Drug Interdiction Task Force had one of its largest fentanyl busts this week in Madison County. 

    The task force seized 44 pounds of the synthetic opioid, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced.

    “This is 44 pounds of agony and devastation that will never reach our communities,” Yost said. “Our task forces are hard at work every day, thwarting traffickers and choking off the supply of these lethal drugs.”

    The fentanyl was valued at $800,000 on Wednesday through an ongoing investigation by the task force, operating under the Ohio Organized Crime Investigations Commission. The investigation also resulted in charges against two people. 

    Throughout 2025, the commission’s major drug task forces seized 86 pounds of fentanyl statewide. 

    The Central Ohio Major Drug Interdiction Task Force includes the Columbus Division of Police, Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Gahanna Police Department, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, FBI, U.S. Postal Inspector, IRS, Ohio State Highway Patrol and Homeland Security Investigations

    Those charged in the case are being prosecuted by the Madison County Prosecutor’s Office.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Shelter opens in Delaware as winter returns

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    DELAWARE, Ohio — While warmer temperatures made a brief appearance last week, winter has returned to Ohio with cold and snow. 

    In Delaware, A Place of Warmth at Zion is opening its shelter Monday night amid freezing temperatures.

    A Place of Warmth at Zion runs a warming center for single men experiencing homelessness and is located at the Zion Church, 51 W. Central Avenue in Delaware at the corner of Franklin Street and Central Avenue.

    The center is activated when temperatures are predicted to drop to 20 degrees or below. Guests will be accepted from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. and may stay until 8 a.m. the following morning.  

    Others seeking sheltering options, or in need of additional information or assistance, can contact  HelpLine of Delaware and Morrow Counties, Inc. by dialing 211.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • U.S. 23 Major Crimes Task Force executes drug search warrants in Ross County

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    CINCINNATI — The U.S. 23 Major Crimes Task Force recently served three drug-related search warrants throughout Ross County, resulting in the seizure of narcotics, illegal firearms and thousands of dollars. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The search warrants were served this past week 

    • Through the warrants, 12 firearms, approximately 180 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 28 grams of fentanyl, and $5,500 were seized

    • Three individuals with active warrants were also taken into custody

    The search warrants were served this past week as part of ongoing efforts to stop narcotics trafficking and seize illegal firearms.

    Through the warrants, 12 firearms, approximately 180 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 28 grams of fentanyl, and $5,500 were seized. The narcotics are valued between $15,000 and $22,000.

    (U.S. 23 Major Crimes Task Force)

    “These investigations demonstrate the continued commitment of our task force to remove dangerous drugs and illegal firearms from our communities,” said representatives of the U.S. 23 Major Crimes Task Force. “Through strong partnerships and coordinated enforcement, we are working to disrupt drug trafficking networks and improve safety for the citizens we serve.”

    Three individuals with active warrants were also taken into custody and incarcerated at the Ross County Jail. 

    The task force comprises local, state and federal partners operating throughout Ross, Highland, Hocking, Fayette and Gallia counties to combat violent crime and narcotics activity in southern Ohio.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Inaugural uniforms revealed for Columbus Aviators

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — While football may seem far away, the UFL is gearing up for its season with Columbus’ inaugural team unveiling its new uniforms.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Columbus Aviators are preparing for the 2026 UFL season with uniforms that reflect “the Aviators’ spirit to ‘challenge, innovate and conquer the unimaginable’”

    • The uniforms are navy to reflect Ohio’s air and space trailblazers with white accents

    • The uniforms will debut with the team March 29 as the Aviators take on the Orlando Storm at 8 p.m.

    The Columbus Aviators are preparing for the 2026 season with uniforms that reflect “the Aviators’ spirit to ‘challenge, innovate and conquer the unimaginable.’”

    These uniforms are navy to reflect Ohio’s air and space trailblazers with white accents. The team’s helmets are blue to reflect open skies, and side pant striping symbolizes the constant forward motion. 

    (UFL)

    NOBULL, a footwear and apparel company, is the Exclusive Training Footwear Partner of the UFL and will be the official jersey patch partner for all eight teams. New Era, an international sports and lifestyle brand, will be the official jersey and headwear partner. Adidas, a multinational athletic apparel and footwear manufacturer, will serve as the footwear partner, providing game-day shoes and gloves.

    The uniforms will debut with the team March 29 as the Aviators take on the Orlando Storm at 8 p.m. Columbus’ home opener is set for April 3 at 11 a.m. at Crew Stadium against the DC Defenders. 

    (UFL)

    The UFL’s season kicks off March 27. The league consists of eight teams, including the Birmingham Stallions, Columbus Aviators, Dallas Renegades, DC Defenders, Houston Gamblers, Louisville Kings, Orlando Storm and St. Louis Battlehawks.

    For more information or to purchase tickets to a UFL game, click here.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Summit Metro Parks unveils restored 1928 Model AA truck

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    SUMMIT COUNTY, Ohio — Summit Metro Parks is embracing history this year as its 1928 Model AA truck hits the road again. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The park’s truck faced a variety of mechanical problems, leading to it being undrivable and in need of professional work

    • Summit Metro Parks said its Model AA was purchased in 2001 by Friends of the Metro Parks and gifted

    • Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum in Cleveland stepped up to help repair the truck

    The park’s truck faced a variety of mechanical problems, leading to it be undrivable and in need of professional work. Through a grant from the Summit Metro Parks Foundation and working with Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum volunteers, the piece of history is ready to hit the road once more.

    Summit Metro Parks said its Model AA was gifted in 2001 and purchased by Friends of the Metro Parks. It has been featured in parades and on display at events such as the annual Touch-a-Truck. 

    “The truck symbolizes the more than 100-year history of the park district and is used in community parades and historical events county-wide,” the park said in a news release. “Even with good upkeep, the vintage vehicle needed some more involved repairs. However, finding a 100-year-old mechanic who had a shop full of specific parts was a no-go.”

    Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum in Cleveland stepped in, starting the work almost immediately while other shops had quoted a three-year wait. Summit Metro Parks said it offered to donate its time and labor, so long as the parts were prepaid.

    “After a full inspection, the incredibly knowledgeable museum volunteers got to work,” Summit Metro Parks said in a release. “There was a lot to be done, and they collaborated with other vintage car experts on the finer details.”

    Work completed included: 

    • Building a replacement engine
    • Rebuilding the transmission
    • Rebuilding carburetor
    • Replaced radiator
    • Swapped out the generator for alternator
    • Steering box, steering column and steering wheel were all replaced and rebuilt
    • Braking system was fixed
    • New muffler installed
    • The seat bottom received padding and replacement springs
    • Various parts were cleaned and repainted
    • Tires and inner tubes were replaced
    • New lights with an original-looking LED bulb assembles
    • The horn was rebuilt and installed

    “The 1928 Model AA is now back in action,” Summit Metro Parks said in a release. “Watch for it in local parades or at car shows and community events.”

    The truck will also be on display at the park’s annual Touch-a-Truck in August.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Cincinnati Zoo welcomes new serval kitten to Cat Ambassador Program

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    CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is welcoming a new furry face to its Cat Ambassador Program.

    What You Need To Know

    • The zoo announced the arrival of a serval kitten from the Nashville Zoo named Theodore Roosevelt, or Teddy

    • Servals are known for their keen hearing and are great jumpers, able to leap five times the length of their body straight up into the air

    • The Cincinnati Zoo said eventually he will have a role in the Cheetah Encounters

    The zoo announced the arrival of a serval kitten from the Nashville Zoo named Theodore Roosevelt, or Teddy. His parents, Cleopatra and Winston Churchill, welcomed both Teddy and his brother Alexander Hamilton, who remains with the Nashville Zoo’s ambassador team, on Oct. 26, 2025.

    “Teddy is getting used to the sights and sounds of the CAP building. He has lots of room to climb and various places to curl up and sleep in his new house, but his favorite thing to do so far has been to go in his outdoor area and stare into the other yards,” the zoo said in a news release. “He also enjoys exploring the keeper area of our main building and playing with all his toys.”

    Servals are known for their keen hearing and are great jumpers, able to leap five times the length of their body straight up into the air to catch birds. 

    Teddy is still acclimating to his new home and keepers, but after his quarantine period he will train to get used to new indoor spaces around the zoo. 

    The Cincinnati Zoo said eventually he will have a role in the Cheetah Encounters just like the other servals.

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  • University of Toledo sees 3 Rockets invited to NFL Scouting Combine

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    TOLEDO, Ohio — Three former Toledo football players are heading to the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, the most of any Group of Six school and more than the other 12 Mid-American schools combined according to the university. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Defensive backs Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Avery Smith and Andre Fuller will head to Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana for the combine

    • The university said the three invites are tied for the most Rockets ever selected to participate in the annual combine

    •  Since 2017, there have been 11 Toledo Rockets drafted

    Defensive backs Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Avery Smith and Andre Fuller will head to Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana for the combine. Defensive backs will participate in media interviews on Feb. 26 and on-field workouts on Feb. 27. 

    The university said the three invites are tied for the most Rockets ever selected to participate in the annual combine. In 2017, Kareem Hunt, Treyvon Hester and Michael Roberts particpated and last year Toledo had two invites for defensive lineman Darius Alexander and safety Maxen Hook.

    Safety McNeil-Warren was named to three All-America teams last year: Second Team All-America by the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) and Sporting News and Third Team All-America by the Associated Press. He’s the fourth Rocket in Toledo’s 109-year history to be named to at least three major All-America teams and just the second in the past 54 years.

    He was also named the “Group of 6” Defensive Player of the Year by Pro Football Focus and to the PFF All-America Team. McNeil-Warren had 77 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions and five pass breakups in 2025. He also had three forced fumbles and two fumbles recovered.

    Cornerback Smith is a two-time Second-Team All-MAC selection with 100 tackles, three interceptions and 25 pass breakups over the past two seasons. He was the second in the MAC in passes defended in 2024 at 16 and third last season at 12. Smith saw his draft stock rise with his performance at the East-West Shrine Bowl on Jan. 27.

    Cornerback Fuller was a First-Team All-MAC honoree in 2025 had 49 tackles, one interception and 11 breakups. He missed the 2024 season because of an injury, but originally joined the Rockets in 2022 after starting off at Arkansas-Pine Bluff. The university said Fuller also had a strong performance at the East-West Shrine Bowl.

    The three are hoping to be the latest selected for the NFL Draft. Since 2017, there have been 11 Toledo Rockets drafted.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Cincinnati Parks begins habitat restoration project in French Park

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    CINCINNATI — While the worst of the cold seems to have passed, Cincinnati Parks is preparing for warmer weather as it kicks off a habitat restoration project in French Park. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The project will cover a 22-acre section of forested area

    • There are a number of invasive shrubs, vines and trees within the park including Amur honeysuckle, Buckthorn, Callery pear, Multiflora rose and English ivy

    • Specialized contractors will use two primary methods depending on conditions including equipment in heavily infested areas and utilizing hand-removal in areas will valuable native plants

    The project will cover a 22-acre section of forested area, removing invasive plant species through a donation from the Cincinnati Parks Foundation. Park officials said the project is set to be completed this May. 

    The 22-acre area where the restoration will take place. (Cincinnati Parks)

    There are a number of invasive shrubs, vines and trees within the park, including Amur honeysuckle, Buckthorn, Callery pear, Multiflora rose and English ivy, which crowd out native plants, reduce biodiversity and make it harder for native wildlife to thrive, according to the parks.

    By removing these plants, the habitat is improved for birds and wildlife while restoring healthy forest ecosystems

    Specialized contractors will use two primary methods depending on conditions including equipment in heavily infested areas and utilizing hand-removal in areas will valuable native plants. Cincinnati Parks said invasive shrubs and small trees will be mulched and native trees will be flagged for protection.

    Cut stumps will be treated to stop regrowth and crews will mark treated areas to protect soil, trails, water bodies and infrastructure. 

    Crews will work from Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with some possible weekend work. 

    Visitors should not be affected by the work, but may see crews, workers or temporary access limitations in some areas. Trails will remain open, but may have short-term closures if necessary for safety. There will be markers and signage for crews and their vehicles.

    The project will be monitored by Cincinnati Parks.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Celina Police warn of AI voice cloning scam

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    CELINA, Ohio — Artificial intelligence has many perks, including for scammers who continue to push AI into schemes. 

    In a newer scheme, criminals are using AI to clone to the voice of loved ones.

    What You Need To Know

    • Scammers use audio clips, gathered from social media, voicemail greetings or videos to create a convincing voice replica

    • The scams are designed to create panic and sound very real, with calls sounding like they are from a child, grandchild or other family member 

    • Police are urging Ohioans to protect themselves

    Scammers use audio clips, gathered from social media, voicemail greetings or videos to create a convincing voice replica.

    The scams are designed to create panic and sound very real, with calls sounding like they are from a child, grandchild or other family member who is in trouble and needs money immediately.

    Examples of scenarios include:

    • “I’ve been in an accident and need bail money.”
    • “I’m stuck somewhere and need you to send money right away.”
    • “I was arrested and can’t talk long – please don’t tell mom/dad.”

    The caller may beg the victim to stay on the phone and not to tell other family members.

    Police are urging Ohioans to protect themselves.

    Steps to take include:

    • Pause and verify. Hang up and call your loved one directly using a number you already have
    • Ask a personal question only they would know the answer to
    • Create a family “safe word” to use in real emergencies

    Law enforcement is also asking for caution when sharing voice recordings online and for users to check social media privacy settings. 

    Money, gift cards or wire transfers should never be sent based solely on a phone call.

    If you receive a suspicious call:

    • Do not provide personal or financial information
    • Report the incident to local law enforcement
    • Report scams to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov

    “These scams rely on fear and urgency,” Celine police said. “Taking a moment to slow down and verify can prevent financial loss and emotional distress.”

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  • Tax donations help support Ohio’s outdoors

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    OHIO — As tax season approaches, Ohioans have an opportunity to help protect their state’s endangered animals, healthy streams and unique ecosystems. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Donations are administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and can be made by checking the Wildlife Diversity or Nature Preserves and Scenic Rivers funds

    • In the past, funds went toward restoring freshwater mussel, eastern hellbender, monarch butterfly and lake sturgeon populations

    • Meanwhile, donations to the Nature Preserves and Scenic Rivers Fund have helped support conservation work to protect habitats ranging from forests, prairies, wetlands and streamside habitats

    Donations are administered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and can be made by checking the Wildlife Diversity or Nature Preserves and Scenic Rivers funds on their state income tax form. Funds go into the Wildlife Diversity Fund, which primarily relies on these donations to support Ohio’s wildlife. 

    In the past, funds went toward restoring freshwater mussel, eastern hellbender, monarch butterfly and lake sturgeon populations. 

    Funds also help benefit the bald eagle, which was restored through partnerships with zoos, universities and other conservation organizations to bring the eagle back from just four nesting pairs in 1979 to 964 active nests in 2025.

    Meanwhile, donations to the Nature Preserves and Scenic Rivers Fund have helped support conservation work to protect habitats ranging from forests, prairies, wetlands and streamside habitats. 

    Through donations, the Division of Natural Areas and Preserves added seven new state nature preserves in 2025. The new areas protect a range of rare habitats such as sand dunes, wetlands, sandstone cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. 

    The division also uses donations to enhance public facilities, such as a new pedestrian bridge at Eagle Creek State Nature Preserve in northeast Ohio which helped open an area of the preserve that was closed for nearly 10 years and a new staircase in southern Ohio top open access to Shoemaker State Nature Preserve.

    A new trail project recently broke ground at Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve in west-central Ohio to make a portion of the Rim Trail fully accessible, which is supported by funds. 

    Those looking to make an impact can donate all or part of their state income tax refund by putting a dollar amount for Nature Preserves/Scenic Rivers on line 25a or Wildlife species on 25d of the 2025 IT-1049 tax form. Contributions on the 2025 tax form filed in 2026 are deductible donations made in 2026.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Ohio Turnpike, OSHP partner to promote safe driving habits

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    OHIO — Ohio officials are teaming up to remind motorists of their “personal responsibility” to practice safe driving habits along the state’s major roadways. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission are teaming up to encourage safe behaviors

    • For the fourth year, Ohio has seen a decrease in fatal crashes across the state, including 37 fewer lives lost in 2025 when compared to 2024

    • OSHP will conduct high-visibility patrols on the turnpike throughout 2026, focusing on violations that put drivers at risk, such as distracted driving, speeding, and not wearing a seatbelt

    The Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission are teaming up to encourage safe behaviors when behind the wheel.

    “Our troopers, our partners at the turnpike and first responders regularly encounter the aftermath of a poor choice that is made while behind the wheel,” said Staff Lt. Rick Reeder, Ohio State Highway Patrol. “These poor choices leave lasting impacts on families and communities, and many of them could have been avoided.”

    For the fourth year, Ohio has seen a decrease in fatal crashes across the state, including 37 fewer lives lost in 2025 when compared to 2024. The Ohio Turnpike had its lowest number of lives lost in the last 5 years at 10.

    From 2021 through 2025 on the Ohio Turnpike, there were:

    • 4,061 speed-related crashes, resulting in 21 fatalities and 1,637 injuries
    • 304 crashes where a distraction played a role, causing one death and injuring 143 others
    • 32 fatalities where a safety belt was available but not used

    “As you can see, in too many instances, these senseless tragedies resulted from something that was preventable,” Staff Lt. Reeder said.

    OSHP will conduct high-visibility patrols on the turnpike throughout 2026, focusing on violations that put drivers at risk, such as distracted driving, speeding, and not wearing a seatbelt.

    “Innovations like forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control and blind spot warnings are impressive and helpful, yet they’re not a substitute for safe driving behaviors and letting your guard down,” said Ohio Turnpike Chief Engineer Chris Matta, who also serves as deputy executive director for the turnpike commission. “Improving safety isn’t a switch we flip overnight. It’s ongoing work — through education, enforcement, outreach and most importantly, personal responsibility,” added Matta.

    Over the past five years, more than 6,000 people have died on Ohio’s roadways, and data shows the top crash factors remain the same for both passenger vehicles and commercial trucks. 

    These factors include:

    • Unsafe speed
    • Improper lane changes
    • Following too closely
    • Failure to yield

    Last year, more than 56 million cars and trucks traveled 3 billion miles on the Ohio Turnpike, with commercial vehicles accounting for about 25% of traffic on the turnpike. 

    Buses and trucks have larger blind spots, less maneuverability, and need more distance to stop. 

    The American Trucking Associations’ Share the Road campaign gave tips for drivers on ensuring safety:

    • Never cut in front of a truck
    • Don’t linger alongside a truck
    • Pass safely and promptly
    • Stay clear of blind spots;
    • Remember: if you can’t see the driver’s face in the side mirror, they can’t see you
    • Give trucks room to maneuver

    “This has already been a challenging winter,” said Matta. “Snowplow trucks are not obstacles. They’re making our roadway safer. Please give them plenty of room to work.”

    Drivers can report reckless or impaired driving and drug activity by calling #677.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Canton consolidates warming shelters

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    CANTON, Ohio — Canton is consolidating its warming center operations this week to one location rather than two.

    What You Need To Know

    • The city is closing its St. Paul AME warming center and moving all shelter operations to Dueber Elementary

    • The shelter will operate from Jan. 29 to Feb. 28

    • Transportation will be provided to the warming center by SARTA

    The city is closing its St. Paul AME warming center and moving all shelter operations to Dueber Elementary at 815 Dueber Ave SW, 44706.

    “We are grateful to Pastor McCants and the congregation of St Paul AME for opening their doors to those in need,” said Canton Mayor William V. Sherer II. “We are simply seeing a need greater than the church can currently hold, and it best to move operations to where we can best accommodate what we’re facing.”

    The shelter will operate from Jan. 29 to Feb. 28. Hours will be from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. Guests should use the north entrance and food and water will be available.

    Transportation will be provided to the warming center by SARTA. Route #113 will take guests to the school; in order for bus fares to be waived, guests must tell drivers they are going to the warming shelter. 

    If transportation is needed when SARTA is not available, call 330-649-5800.

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  • Akron announces trash pick-up delay

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    AKRON, Ohio — As Ohio continues to deal with winter weather, Akron is delaying its trash/recycling pick up for the week. 

    The one-day delay starts Monday, Jan. 26, where there will be no curb service. Service will resume on Tuesday, Jan. 27 and continue through Saturday, Jan. 31.

    The city also is reminding residents of the parking ban taking effect at 7 a.m. on Monday. Throughout the ban, no vehicles should be parked on any city street. Violations of the parking ban could result in fines and removal of the vehicle.

     

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  • Man’s body recovered from VOA MetroPark lake

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    BUTLER COUNTY, Ohio — The Butler County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Response Services and the Task Force 1 Dive Team responded to VOA MetroPark to help West Chester Police and Fire regarding a missing person on Monday, Jan. 19.

    What You Need To Know

    • Officials said the search ended with the recovery of an adult male from the lake

    • The operation involved 360-sonar technology, which helped teams locate the man near the docks

    • Officials said the investigation is being handled by the West Chester Police Department alongside the Butler County Coroner’s Office

    Officials said the search ended with the recovery of an adult male from the lake. 

    The operation involved 360-sonar technology, which helped teams locate the man near the docks. The Butler County Sheriff’s Office said a Task Force 1 diver entered the water and successfully recovered the individual with guidance from ERS sonar operators. 

    Butler County Sheriff’s Office said several mutual aid partners helped with the scene, including:

    • West Chester Police and Fire
    • Liberty Township Fire
    • ​Fairfield Township Fire
    • ​Butler County MetroParks

    Officials said the investigation is being handled by the West Chester Police Department alongside the Butler County Coroner’s Office.

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  • ScottsMiracle-Gro Field to host 2026 NWSL Challenge Cup

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Women’s soccer is taking the spotlight in Columbus this summer when the Columbus Crew and ScottsMiracle-Gro Field host the 2026 NWSL Challenge Cup. 

    What You Need To Know

    • The matchup, presented by E.L.F., puts the Kansas City Current against Gotham FC 

    • The NWSL Challenge Cup is an annual super cup competition and showcase of league title winners from the previous year

    • Details about the match, including ticket information, will be announced at a later date

    The matchup, presented by E.L.F., puts the Kansas City Current against Gotham FC on Friday, June 26, at 8 p.m. It is the league’s first game in Columbus since it launched in 2013.

    The NWSL Challenge Cup is an annual super cup competition and showcase of league title winners from the previous year. Gotham FC lifted its second NWSL Championship trophy in the past three seasons last year and the Current claimed this first NWSL Shield with a league-best 21-3-2 record.

    “We’re excited to welcome the NWSL to Columbus for the first time by hosting the NWSL Challenge Cup in June. This event provides another exceptional opportunity for the Crew to celebrate our sport and top athletes across the men’s and women’s game during a truly special year for soccer in our region and country,” said Crew President of Business Operations Mary Shepro. “Thanks to great collaboration with local partners, our world-class facilities and the passion of our fan base, we continue to strengthen Columbus’ reputation as an ideal destination for soccer and major events that have a lasting impact on our sport and community.”

    Details about the match, including ticket information, will be announced at a later date. 

    Fans won’t have to wait until June for some action though as ScottsMiracle-Gro Field will also host the 2026 SheBelieves Cup on March 4. 

    This is the second time in the past three years the cup has come to Columbus, with CONMEBOL’s Argentina and Colombia at 3:30 p.m. and USA facing Canada at 6:45 p.m. 

     

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  • Cleveland Museum of Natural History makes USA Today top 5 list

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    CLEVELAND — While it may not be brand new, visitors thought the Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s $150 million renovation made it feel like new, according to USA Today Readers Choice awards.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Cleveland Museum of Natural History was voted No. 4 on the list

    • “The Cleveland Museum of Natural History now tells Earth’s story through a visitor-centered lens,” USA Today said 

    • For more details, click here

    These museums were nominated by a panel of experts and voted by readers as the best new or newly transformed venues on the scene, representing the top openings of the past two years. 

    The Cleveland Museum of Natural History was voted No. 4 on the list for its renovation and expansion. 

    “The Cleveland Museum of Natural History now tells Earth’s story through a visitor-centered lens,” USA Today said in its rankings. “The reimagined galleries place you inside prehistoric Ohio, where you can handle real fossils and gape at ‘Happy,’ the 72-foot-long Haplocanthosaurus, in a setting that matches the gentle giant’s magnitude.”

    The full list of museums includes:

    1. National Medal of Honor Museum: Arlington, Texas
    2. Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University: Mantua, New Jersey
    3. National Public Housing Museum: Chicago, Illinois
    4. Cleveland Museum of Natural History: Cleveland, Ohio
    5. Museum of Art + Light: Manhattan, Kansas
    6. Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream: Washington D.C.
    7. The Charles J. Muth Museum of Hinchliffe Stadium: Paterson, New Jersey
    8. Door County Granary: Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
    9. The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art at Florida Southern College: Lakeland, Florida
    10. Museum of BBQ: Kansas City, Missouri

    For more details, click here.

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  • Cavaliers close out another ‘Season of Giving’ to surrounding community

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    CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Cavaliers announced another successful Season of Giving throughout November and December. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Throughout the two months, the Cavs hosted 23 events to uplift the community

    • This past season, more than 54,000 community members were served, over 60,500 meals were provided and 470 hours of volunteer service was done

    • For more information on initiatives, click here

    Throughout the two months, the Cavs hosted 23 events to uplift the community through volunteering or providing meals. 

    “The Cavaliers Season of Giving, championed by Cleveland-Cliffs, is a tradition that reflects our shared commitment to support and uplift our neighbors across Northeast Ohio,” said Pam Frasco, Cleveland Cavaliers Senior Vice President of Social Impact and Executive Director of the Cavaliers Community Foundation. “As one organization, from the players to front office team members and community partners, we are able to make a meaningful impact during the holiday season and beyond. The joint collaboration that drives this yearly effort highlights the power that can come from our exceptional community.”

    This past season, more than 54,000 community members were served, over 60,500 meals were provided and 470 hours of volunteer service was done by team members.

    Some highlights included:

    • Thankful For ALL Holiday Dinner: Where the Cavs served 150 students and families from Cleveland Metropolitan School District’s Project ACT at Rocket Arena
    • Cavaliers Annual Holiday Hospital Visit: Team members brought gifts to patients throughut Cleveland in hospitals
    • Holiday Pajama Party: The Cavaliers visited 100 women and children at Laura’s Home with a celebration that included pajamas for all, milk and cookies, holiday story time and additional holiday festivities
    • Holiday Meal Packing: More than 52,000 meals were prepped for distribution by the Children’s Hunger Alliance through the Cavs, Cleveland-Cliffs and Greater Cleveland Food Bank

    For more information on initiatives, click here.

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  • Firearm confiscated from Riverside School student

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    CLEVELAND — Cleveland Metropolitan School District families were alerted Monday that a firearm was found and confiscated from a student at one of CMSD’s schools.

    What You Need To Know

    • Riverside School Principal Heather Kama-Star sent a notice to parents about the situation Monday

    • Riverside School serves pre-K through eighth grade

    • The school is located in Cleveland’s West Park neighborhood

    Riverside School Principal Heather Kama-Star sent a notice to parents about the situation after a staff member found the firearm on a student entering the building. The weapon was confiscated, and teachers, administrators and safety and security members immediately responded. 

    “Our school district is now taking proactive steps to prevent this from happening again,” Kama-Star said. “As the building principal, it is my responsibility to ensure that our scholars are provided with a safe place that is conducive to learning and that their social-emotional learning is protected and uninterrupted.”

    Riverside School serves Pre-K through eighth grade in Cleveland’s West Park neighborhood.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Meta lines up massive supply of nuclear power to energize AI data centers

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    OHIO — Meta has cut a trio of deals to power its artificial intelligence data centers, securing enough energy to light up the equivalent of about 5 million homes.

    The parent company of Facebook on Friday announced agreements with TerraPower, Oklo and Vistra for nuclear power for its Prometheus AI data center that is being built in New Albany, Ohio. Meta announced Prometheus, which will be a 1-gigawatt cluster spanning across multiple data center buildings, in July. It’s anticipated to come online this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • Financial terms of the deals with TerraPower, Oklo and Vistra were not disclosed

    • Vistra’s 20-year PPAs to provide more than 2,600 megawatts of zero-carbon energy from three nuclear plants to support Meta operations

    • The purchases under the Vistra agreements will begin in late 2026, with additional capacity added to the grid through 2034, which is when the full 2,609 MW of power will be online

    Financial terms of the deals with TerraPower, Oklo and Vistra were not disclosed.

    Meta said its agreement with TerraPower will provide funding that supports the development of two new Natrium units capable of generating up to 690 megawatts of firm power with delivery as early as 2032. The deal also provides Meta with rights for energy from up to six other Natrium units capable of producing 2.1 gigawatts and targeted for delivery by 2035.

    Vistra’s 20-year PPAs to provide more than 2,600 megawatts of zero-carbon energy from three nuclear plants to support Meta operations. 

    These agreements include 2,176 MW of operating generation and an additional 433 MW of combine power output increases. Vistra said the agreements will also grow the local tax base, foster economic development and protect existing jobs while creating new ones. 

    Vistra will now begin planning for subsequent license extensions at all three plants, extending operations of the carbon-free assets for another 20 years. 

    “This is a unique and exciting collaboration, and Vistra is proud to partner with Meta on these long-term power purchase agreements, which ensure the continued safe and reliable operation of Vistra’s Beaver Valley, Davis-Besse, and Perry nuclear power plants for decades to come while providing a competitive solution for our customer to support its sustainable operations,” said Jim Burke, president and CEO of Vistra. “Importantly, this commitment from Meta provides Vistra the certainty needed to invest in these plants and communities and bring new nuclear generation online for the grid – through uprates at our existing plants.”

    Vistra’s nuclear plants involved in the agreements include:

    • Perry: A single-unit power plant located on Lake Erie, about 40 miles north of Cleveland, has a capacity of 1,268 MW and provides more than 600 full-time jobs
    • David-Besse: A single-unit power plant in Oak Harbor, about 35 miles east of Toledo, has a capacity of 908 MW and provides more than 600 full-time jobs
    • Beaver Valley: A two-unit power plant in western Pennslyvania, about 30 miles northwest of Pittsburgh, has a capacity of 1,872 MW and provides more than 750 full-time jobs

    “At Meta, we are investing in nuclear energy because it provides clean, reliable power that is essential for advancing our AI ambitions and strengthening American leadership in energy innovation. By supporting nuclear power, we ensure that our operations – and the communities we serve – benefit from energy solutions that drive both technological progress and economic growth,” said Urvi Parekh, Head of Global Energy at Meta.

    Through the agreements Meta is purchasing: 

    • 2,176 MW of nuclear energy and capacity from the operating Perry and Davis-Besse plants
    • 433 MW of incremental nuclear energy and capacity from equipment upgrades to increase generation output (called uprates) at the Perry (Ohio), Davis-Besse (Ohio), and Beaver Valley (Pennsylvania) plants

    Electricity generated at the plants will continue to go to the grid for all electricity users.

    “As recently as 2020, before Vistra owned Perry, Davis-Besse, and Beaver Valley, these plants were on a path to retirement,” said Stacey Doré, Chief Strategy & Sustainability Officer of Vistra. “When we signed a deal to acquire these plants in 2023, Vistra saw their tremendous contribution – to the reliability of the grid, to the stability of the region, to their local communities, and to the people who work there. Fast-forward to today and we’re investing in expanding these same plants, and thanks to our dedicated employees and a committed partner like Meta, this fleet will continue to provide reliable, carbon-free energy to power the grid of the future.”

    The purchases under the agreements will begin in late 2026, with additional capacity added to the grid through 2034, which is when the full 2,609 MW of power will be online. 

    “Bringing new nuclear generation online is key to Ohio and our nation’s growth and security, and Vistra’s significant investment is a huge win for Ohio,” said U.S. Sen. Bernie Moreno, R-Ohio. “Thanks to this announcement, essential plants will remain on the grid for the long-term, supporting jobs and local revenues.”

    Each plant has received initial license renewal from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Through the agreements, Vistra can pursue subsequent license renewal for each of the reactors, extending each license an additional 20 years. Currently, Beaver Valley Unit 1 is licensed through 2036; Davis-Besse is licensed through 2037; Perry is licensed through 2046; and Beaver Valley Unit 2 is licensed through 2047.

    “This agreement reinforces Pennsylvania’s leadership in clean, reliable nuclear power and will support Pennsylvania’s workers, unlock new capacity to meet rising electricity demand, and help power economic growth and development across Beaver County and our Commonwealth,” said U.S. Sen. Dave McCormick, R-Pennsylvania.

    The deal with Oklo, which counts OpenAI’s Sam Altman as one of its largest investors, will help to develop a 1.2 gigawatt power campus in Pike County, Ohio, to support Meta’s data centers in the region.

    The nuclear power agreements come after Meta announced in June that it reached a 20-year deal with Constellation Energy.

    “This partnership between Vistra and Meta taps into Pennsylvania’s strengths as a national energy leader and will create and protect good-paying jobs, grow our economy, and ultimately add more power to the grid,” said Gov. Josh Shapiro, D-Pennsylvania. “My administration is working to generate even more power in the Commonwealth to keep up with rising demand — with more power comes more national security, more independence, and more economic freedom. Projects like this — bringing new clean energy to our grid to power next generation technology — are exactly the types of projects we want to welcome to the Commonwealth.”

    The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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    Madison MacArthur, Associated Press

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  • Officials warn of ongoing jury scam in Summit County

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    SUMMIT COUNTY, Ohio — Officials are warning Summit County residents of an uptick in reports involving a jury call scam.

    What You Need To Know

    • Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro said the scam involves “spoofing” so it appears that the scammer is calling from a law enforcement or government agency

    • Officials said for those who receive a call sounding similar to this, the most important step to take is to stop and hang up

    • Officials said the next step is to call a trusted source and alert the authorities

    Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro said the scam involves “spoofing” so it appears that the scammer is calling from a law enforcement or government agency. 

    Scammers claim the call recipient has a warrant out for their arrest because they missed serving jury duty and that they must immediately pay a large fine to avoid jail time. 

    Officials said for those who receive a call sounding similar to this, the most important step to take is to stop and hang up the phone.

    “We know it feels counterintuitive because so many people want to take care of business and not be in trouble, especially when the scammer is so forceful in their urgency,” Shapiro said in a Facebook post. “But scammers exploit the good intentions of regular people who just want to do the right thing, and taking a pause & hanging up is the simplest, best way to thwart these scams.”

    Officials said the next step is to call a trusted source, alert the authorities and to pass on the tips to friends and families. 

    “Summit County government offices do not accept payment in gift cards, prepaid credit cards or cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin,” Shapiro’s post read. “Summit County will not call you about an outstanding warrant, and we do not issue summons for missed jury duty.”

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    Madison MacArthur

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