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  • Ohio set to raise minimum wage in 2026

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    OHIO — Come the New Year, Ohioans receiving minimum wage are set to see an increase in their pay, according to the state’s Department of Commerce.

    For non-tipped employees, the increase will be to $11 per hour, and for tipped employees, it will rise to $5.50 per hour. 

    What You Need To Know

    • For non-tipped employees, the increase will be to $11 per hour

    • For tipped employees, it will rise to $5.50 per hour

    • The department said the change represents a 2.8% increase from the current $10.70 for non-tipped employees and $5.35 for tipped employees

    The department said the change represents a 2.8% increase from the current $10.70 for non-tipped employees and $5.35 for tipped employees. The change is a mandate of a constitutional amendment passed by Ohio voters in 2006 that requires the state’s minimum wage to rise on Jan. 1 each year by the rate of inflation. 

    Ohio’s minimum wage will increase on Jan. 1, 2026.

    “We encourage all employers to stay informed and compliant with the updated wage rates and posting requirements,” said Stephen Clegg, Wage & Hour Administration Bureau Chief. “The Department of Commerce offers resources to support employers in meeting those obligations.”

    The Department of Commerce said the minimum wage standard is tied to the Consumer Price Index for urban wage earners and clerical workers for the 12-month period ending in August. The 2.8% increase corresponds to the change from Sept. 1, 2024, to Aug. 31, 2025.

    Effective Jan. 1, 2026, the Ohio minimum wage will apply to businesses with annual gross receipts of more than $405,000, which is an increase from the current $394,000 threshold. 

    “For employees at businesses with annual gross receipts of $405,000 or less per year after Jan. 1, 2026, and for 14- and 15-year-old workers, the state minimum wage remains tied to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour,” the Department of Commerce said in a news release. “Any changes to this rate would require an act of the U.S. Congress and the President’s signature.”

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Statewide human trafficking operation yields 135 arrests

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    OHIO — Attorney General Dave Yost, R-Ohio, announced Monday that a statewide human trafficking operation last week led to the arrest of 135 people.

    What You Need To Know

    • Many of those who were arrested face felony charges

    • More than 100 state, local and federal agencies took part in the operation

    • 67 human trafficking survivors were referred to resources

    “Operation Next Door was named to highlight the proximity and prevalence of human trafficking,” Yost said. “Too often, we are lulled into the false narrative that these crimes happen only in the shadows. This is simply not true – human trafficking occurs in plain sight and, unfortunately, may even be fueled by your co-workers or neighbors.”

    Yost said more than 100 law enforcement agencies took part in the operation. 

    Of the people arrested, 32 face felony charges, including promoting prostitution, compelling prostitution, seeking sex with a minor and drug possession and/or trafficking.

    Additionally, 103 of the people who were seeking to buy sex were arrested and charged with engaging in prostitution or solicitation. Yost said nine search warrants were also initiated, which included raids on massage parlors in Toledo, Cleveland and Akron areas. Over $62,000 was seized during the operation, along with evidence for long-term investigations, Yost said. 

    Yost said 67 human trafficking survivors were referred by law enforcement to health-care and social-services organizations.

    For more information about the arrests, click here.

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    Lydia Taylor

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  • Tee Higgins, Evan Engram look to turn their seasons around

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    CINCINNATI — Both the Cincinnati Bengals and Denver Broncos are trying to tap into a key offensive power source when they square off Monday night in the Mile High City.

    What You Need To Know

    • Wide receiver Tee Higgins is off to a slow start after signing a four-year, $115 million contract extension with the Bengals 
    • So far, Higgins has been targeted 14 times compared to Ja’Marr Chase’s 27

    • Jake Browning has already thrown five interceptions in the seven quarters he has played and the Bengals are averaging only 2.4 yards per carry

    Wide receiver Tee Higgins is off to a slow start after signing a four-year, $115 million contract extension with the Bengals (2-1) last spring with just seven catches for 104 yards in three games.

    “I know it’s going to come my way,” Higgins said. “I’ve always been like that. When the ball comes my way, I’ve just got to make a play on it. I’ve got to take advantage of every opportunity I get.”

    That’s exactly how tight end Evan Engram feels.

    Engram was one of Denver’s big free agent signings last offseason and was billed as the coveted “ joker ” in coach Sean Payton’s offense, the versatile playmaker who can exploit matchups in the middle of the field.

    Yet, Engram had three catches on four targets in the opener and just two targets and one catch in and Week 2, tallying a total of just 33 yards with no touchdowns. He missed last week’s loss to the Chargers with a bad back.

    Engram was a full participant in practice all week and Payton indicated there wasn’t any lingering health issues for Engram: “He’s doing well. He’s full. He’s playing.”

    Engram could be key to the Broncos (1-2) ending a two-game skid in which they’ve lost on walk-off field goals after never trailing in the fourth quarter.

    “Listen, I think there are certainly matchups — third down, red zone come to mind — but with him on the field, we’re a better offense,” Payton said.

    As are the Bengals when Higgins is more involved.

    So far, Higgins has been targeted 14 times compared to Ja’Marr Chase’s 27.

    Last week, Higgins caught just one of two passes thrown his way for 15 yards in a 48-10 drubbing at the hands of the Minnesota Vikings in their first game since franchise quarterback Joe Burrow suffered a toe injury that required surgery.

    “That’s the thing about our guys, there’s not an ego involved in any of this,” Bengals coach Zac Taylor said.

    “There’s been games before where some of our main guys have caught a ball or have been targeted once. They know the next game might be 12 targets and 10 catches.”

    A trip to Denver might just be the elixir for Higgins, who caught 11 passes for 131 yards and three TDs in the Bengals’ 30-24 overtime win over the Broncos in Cincinnati last December.

    Of course, that was cornerback Riley Moss’s first game back from a knee injury. He’s healthy now and playing pretty well opposite reigning AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year Patrick Surtain II, who will spent plenty of time covering Chase on Monday night.

    “When you look at that game on the road, obviously there were some completions, but we competed and played those guys,” Payton said. “We didn’t score enough. He’s doing well. He’s had a great week.”

    A dearth of targets for Higgins is one of just many concerns in Cincy’s offense.

    Jake Browning has already thrown five interceptions in the seven quarters he has played and the Bengals are averaging only 2.4 yards per carry. Lead back Chase Brown is getting hit behind the line of scrimmage on nearly 80% of his carries and is averaging just 2 yards per rush so far.

    The Broncos have their own offensive issues. Second-year quarterback Bo Nix is off to a slow start and his footwork and mechanics haven’t been consistently clean. Last week he overthrew wide-open receivers on deep routes three times in Denver’s 23-20 loss to the Chargers.

    Nix’s slow start had left many wondering if his head coach put too much pressure on him by declaring all summer that Nix was already one of the NFL’s elite QBs and the Broncos were ready for Super Bowl contention.

    “I think it’s better than him talking about how tough of a season it’s going to be,” Nix said.

    While the Bengals tried to put aside their biggest loss in franchise history, the Broncos spent the week trying to fix their penalty problem — 30 flags in three games — and digesting the fact that they dropped back-to-back games despite never trailing in the fourth quarter.

    “I guess you can say we reset,” running back J.K. Dobbins said. “We came together and we’re trying to figure out how to finish games and I think this week we have a good chance of showing that to the whole entire world. And I think we will do that.”

    Engram’s return to the lineup could go a long way in making that happen.

    “I think it’s going to be huge for us,” right tackle Mike McGlinchey said. “I’m ready to see Evan healthy and flying around. He’s such a talented player. He’s been great for us. I’m excited to see what he’s capable of this weekend and I know Sean is, too. I think he’s just about to get going and really help us win.”

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Wheelersburg gets big win in OHSAA Game of the Week

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    OHIO — Host Wheelersburg rallied in the second half for a 24-15 win over Ironton in the Ohio High School Athletic Association Game of the Week on Spectrum News 1.

    The Pirates (6-0) trailed 9-7 at half before outscoring the Fighting Tigers (5-1) 21-6 in the final 24 minutes. It’s Wheelersburg’s first win in the series since the 2021 playoffs, and 2018 regular season. 

    Next week, the Pirates visit Oak Hill, while Ironton travels to Uniontown, Pennsylvania.

    This could be the first of two meetings this year, as these were the top two teams in the Region 19 (Division V) computer rankings. 

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    Rob Kunz

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  • ‘The time for this move is right’: Cincinnati Zoo director shifting to new role

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    CINCINNATI — It’s doubtful you’ve spent as much time at the zoo as Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Director Thane Maynard, who started his career at the zoo back in 1977 and became the executive director in 2007.

    What You Need To Know

    • Long-time Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden Director Thane Maynard is stepping away from the role

    • He will be shifting to the role of executive chair of the board

    • The zoo’s chief operating officer, Dave Jenike, will become the new director

    But now, the zoo announced in a press release that Maynard is shifting to a new role: Executive Chair of the Board, where he will “spearhead the largest fundraising effort in the Zoo’s history.”

    Replacing him as director will be Chief Operating Officer Dave Jenike, a Cincinnati native. The change will be effective Jan. 1 next year.

    Chief Operating Officer Dave Jenike, a Cincinnati native, will be replacing Maynard as director.

    Chief Operating Officer Dave Jenike, a Cincinnati native, will be replacing Maynard as director. (Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden)

    “I’m not leaving. This Zoo is in my blood, and its mission – to inspire everyone with wildlife – is my mission,” Maynard said in the release. “I just won’t be as involved in the day-to-day running of the park. Dave has been in charge of operations for a long time and is more than ready to step into the Director role.”

    Maynard will still most likely be attending events in the area as a zoo ambassador and will continue with his radio show called “The 90-Second Naturalist.” The nationally-syndicated show launched back in 1987.

    “On behalf of the Board, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to Thane for his extraordinary leadership over the past 19 years,” Cincinnati Zoo’s Board Chair George Molinsky said in the release. “His vision, passion, and unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation and to the Cincinnati community have strengthened the Zoo’s reputation as one of the very best in the nation. We are thankful for his dedication and stewardship, and we are excited to see his legacy carried forward as Dave Jenike steps into this new role.”

    (Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden)

    Jenike’s time at the zoo began as an intern, and the release states that he “wore many hats” on his way to Chief Operating Officer, a role he took on in 2007.

    “Thane and I have worked side by side for decades,” Jenike said in the release. “We trust each other and are aligned on what’s important – for the Zoo and for the planet. With his help, I’m confident that we can meet our goal to ensure a bright future for the Zoo and the impact we create.”

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Ohio Investor Recovery Fund returns $2M to several victims

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Commerce is celebrating that its Division of Securities has returned $2 million to 130 victims since its inception.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Department of Commmerce has returned $2 million to victims of investment fraud

    • The fund helps those who have no means to recoup their money

    • Victims tend to have their money stolen due to securities-related crimes, according to the Department of Commerce

    Sept. 25 marked the third anniversary of the Ohio Recovery Fund, which was created in August 2022.

    The fund aims to provide a way to recoup money for those who have no other means to do so.

    “It is unfortunate that there are those who take advantage of innocent Ohioans who have worked hard to save for their dreams and future only to lose it to bad actors,” Ohio Securities Commissioner Andrea Seidt said. “I am pleased how this fund has helped so many Ohioans who otherwise would have lost everything, and I am proud of the people in the Division of Securities who work every day to pursue justice for these victims.”

    Many residents have had money stolen from them because of securities-related crimes, according to the Department of Commerce.

    One investor who was involved in a cryptocurrency scam said the fund helped her pursue legal action.

    “I could have had work done to my house. I could have helped out a family member. I could have had work done to vehicles. There were a lot of ways that money could have been spent and I had to find other resources to help myself out – some of which involved taking on some debt,” the Belmont County resident said. “There is a lot of guilt that you carry when you get taken advantage of from a fraud aspect, and I was never made to feel bad (by the Division’s investigators). Even if there was no resolution, I was still confident that the Division had done everything they could do to recoup the funds.”

    The Federal Trade Commission reported that consumers lost more than $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024, which was a 25% increase from 2023.

    To be receive assistance a victim must:

    • Be an Ohio resident who has suffered a monetary loss as the result of a violation of the Ohio Securities Act or any rules adopted thereunder
    • Be identified in a final administrative order issued by the Division of Securities or a final court order in a civil or criminal proceeding initiated by the Division
    • Meet all additional eligibility requirements set forth by statute and rule

    To file a complaint, visit the Division of Securities’ website.

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    Ryan Johnston

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  • A look at how Ohio colleges and universities stack up in national ranking

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    OHIO — Whether its sports, academic programs or even campus beauty, the competitive spirit is alive and well among college campuses as age-old rivalries play out on and off the field. 

    So how do Ohio’s universities compare to those nationwide? Well, the U.S. News and World Report has now released its 2026 Best Colleges list. The publication stated that they analyzed more than 1,700 institutions that grant bachelor’s degrees. 

    Leading the pack nationally, you have Princeton University in Princeton, New Jersey. That’s followed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and then Harvard University, also in Cambridge. Rounding out the top five are Stanford University at number four and Yale University at number five.

    Ohio makes its first appearance on the list at number 41, with The Ohio State University. Case Western Reserve University just barely misses the top 50, coming in at number 51.

    Several other Ohio universities are also included, including Miami University Oxford at number 143, University of Dayton at number 143, the University of Cincinnati at number 158 and Ohio University at number 198.

    Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 Ohio universities, according to the list, along with their national rank.

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    Cody Thompson

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  • CVS Health subsidiary Omnicare files for Ch. 11 bankruptcy protection

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    CINCINNATI — CVS Health subsidiary Omnicare has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

    It comes just two months after the long-term care business was ordered to pay $949 million when a federal court found it liable for filing fraudulent claims for some prescription drugs.

    What You Need To Know

    • The CVS Health subsidiary Omnicare has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection

    • This comes just two months after the business was ordered to pay $949 million when a federal court found it liable for filing fraudulent claims for some prescription drugs

    • Omnicare, which CVS Health bought for more than $10 billion in cash in 2015, said in its bankruptcy petition that it had up to $10 billion in debt and up to $500 million in assets

    In 2019, the federal government joined the legal fight against CVS Health that accused Omnicare business of routinely filling prescriptions that had expired or run out of refills. The Department of Justice said that Omnicare’s pharmacies sent drugs to people living in residential facilities based on “stale, invalid prescriptions.” It accused the company of fraudulently billing government-funded programs like Medicaid and Medicare for drugs dispensed without a valid prescription from 2010 to 2018.

    CVS Health said at the time that the claims had no merit.

    Omnicare President David Azzolina said in a prepared statement Monday that the lawsuit didn’t include any allegations of harm to any Omnicare patients and that the government didn’t allege that any patient got anything other than the medicine they needed when they needed it.

    “The District Court nevertheless imposed an extreme and, we believe, unconstitutional penalty,” Azzolina said. “Given that ruling and a number of other issues facing our business, we now are taking necessary steps to move forward and ensure the continued delivery of safe and reliable pharmacy service to our customers.”

    Omnicare, which CVS Health acquired for more than $10 billion in 2015, said in its bankruptcy petition that it had up to $10 billion in debt and up to $500 million in assets.

    The Cincinnati company said that the bankruptcy filing would help it resolve issues related to the recent court ruling. Omnicare said that it was also using the process to address other financial challenges facing the broader long-term care pharmacy industry and to evaluate its restructuring options.

    CVS Health has been exploring strategic options for Omnicare as booked write-downs for the struggling business.

    Omnicare, which filed in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas, said that it will still provide pharmacy services to long-term care facilities during the court-supervised process.

    The company said that it entered into an agreement for $110 million in debtor-in-possession financing. Once it receives court approval, Omnicare expects the financing and cash generated from operations will provide sufficient liquidity for it to meet ongoing business obligations during the court-supervised process.

    Shares of CVS Health rose 1% Tuesday.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • $10M Ohio program aims to make child care affordable

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    OHIO — Gov. Mike DeWine, R-Ohio, and Ohio Department of Children and Youth Director Kara Wente announced the Child Care Cred Program on Monday, which is a $10 million program aimed at making child care more affordable for working families while also helping businesses.

    What You Need To Know

    • The program is part of the state’s 2026-27 biennial budget

    • It creates a cost-sharing model between parents, employers and the state of Ohio

    • Employees and employers must submit the application together, and both must be based in Ohio

    “The new Child Care Cred Program is designed to help Ohio’s families get access to child care,” said DeWine. “And, when parents have quality child care, Ohio’s employers have productive employees who are not worried about their kids during work. It is a win for Ohio’s working families and for businesses.”

    The program is part of the state’s 2026-27 biennial budget. It creates a cost-sharing model between parents, employers and the state of Ohio to help provide funds for quality child care, while businesses focus on the needs of their company. 

    To quality for the program, families and their employers must both be Ohio-based. Employers and employees will need to work together to submit an application for funding, and once approved, families can enroll their child in a licensed program. They can also remain with their current provider. 

    Applications are due May 1, 2026, and can be found on the Ohio Department of Children and Youth’s website.

    “Child care isn’t just a family issue, it’s a workforce issue,” said Wente. “The Child Care Cred Program makes care more affordable for parents, while giving Ohio employers a smart, practical way to support their teams. It’s a win for families, businesses and communities across our state.”

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    Lydia Taylor

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  • Ohio businesses, families navigate rising utility bills amid technology boom

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    DUBLIN, Ohio — As technology companies expand across Ohio, rising electricity demand is pushing utility bills higher for families and businesses. Experts and small business owners say it is too soon to know whether the long-term benefits of tech growth will outweigh the immediate costs.

    What You Need To Know

    • Utility transmission costs in parts of Ohio have risen more than 350% in recent years, straining households and small businesses

    • Experts say demand from new data centers and artificial intelligence is adding pressure to the state’s aging power grid

    • It remains uncertain whether long-term job creation and investment in tech will balance out the higher costs

    For Enas Lanham, owner of the Dublin Toy Emporium, higher power bills are just one more challenge on top of inflation and tariffs. She said that her utility costs have been steadily climbing.

    “It’s been a gradual increase, I’d say, since 2022. And then it just continued to increase over that time,” Lanham said.

    To keep her store running, Lanham has relied on creativity, including hosting events and finding new ways to attract customers.

    “Constantly reevaluating ways to either generate more revenue or creative ways to get people in. So I look at it more as just, you know, regular problem solving,” she said.

    Her experience reflects a broader trend across the state. In some areas, transmission costs have risen by more than 350% over the past decade, according to energy leaders. The state’s power grid, which is more than a century old, is struggling to keep up as artificial intelligence and data centers drive up demand.

    “Demand is going up. Supply is going down, which is creating elevated prices. Additionally, in June, we’re seeing a large jump in what we call capacity. And that is a charge that all ratepayers pay,” said Susanne Buckley, partner at Scioto Energy.

    Still, some energy experts remain optimistic.

    “I see it as a positive story. Certainly. We need to be concerned about rising electricity prices and bring those back in control. You can do that with competition and innovation,” said John Seryak, managing partner at Runner Stone.

    At the Ohio Manufacturers’ Energy Conference, experts cautioned that it is still too early to say if new technology investments will create enough jobs or growth to offset higher utility bills. The projects remain in their early phases, and the full impact could take years to measure.

    In the meantime, experts recommend several steps for consumers: shop for competitive energy suppliers, stay on top of energy plans and rates, track usage during peak hours, and use energy-saving measures such as adjusting thermostats or switching to efficient lighting.

    For Lanham, the issue comes down to fairness.

    “But these big businesses, they’re the ones that really have the funds to manage that. So I think a lot of it is just looking at it from a monetary system and a fairness in terms of being able to have the average American be able to support their families, support their business and to succeed,” she said.

    Families and small business owners across Ohio are bracing for what comes next, hoping today’s challenges lead to tomorrow’s opportunities.

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    Saima Khan

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  • Spencer Steer hits 2 of the Reds’ 5 homers in a 7-4 win over the Cubs

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    CINCINNATI — Spencer Steer hit two of Cincinnati’s season-high five homers as the Reds beat the Chicago Cubs 7-4 on Friday night to keep pace in the National League wild-card race.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Reds beat the Chicago Cubs 7-4 Friday night

    • Cincinnati remained two games behind the New York Mets for the final wild-card spot

    • Cubs RHP Javier Assad and Reds RHP Zack Littell will start on Saturday

    The Reds (78-76) remained two games behind the New York Mets, who beat Washington on Friday night, for the final wild-card spot. The Cubs have the top wild-card spot and have already clinched a playoff berth.

    Steer’s two-run homer in the sixth inning off Porter Hodge (2-2) broke a 4-all tie, and Elly De La Cruz took Hodge deep on the next pitch. It was each player’s 20th homer of the season.

    The Reds hit their other three homers off Shota Imanaga. Miguel Andujar went deep in the first inning, Matt McLain in the third and Steer in the fourth.

    Dansby Swanson hit his 23rd homer of the season in the second for the Cubs. Matt Shaw added a two-run shot in the fourth, but the Cubs didn’t score again.

    Connor Phillips (1-0) worked 1 1/3 scoreless innings in relief of Nick Lodolo, who gave up four runs on nine hits in 4 2/3 innings. Emilio Pagan pitched the ninth for his 28th save.

    Key moment

    Seiya Suzuki attempted to score from first on Carson Kelly’s single to the left-center field gap, but was thrown out easily at home on a relay by De La Cruz to end the first inning.

    Key stat

    De La Cruz’s homer was his first since July 31 and snapped his career-long homerless streak at 43 games.

    Up next

    Cubs RHP Javier Assad (3-1, 4.23 ERA) and Reds RHP Zack Littell (9-8, 3.86) will start on Saturday.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • ODNR names Water Conservation Excellence Award recipients

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    OHIO — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is issuing a new award for water conservation to organizations across the Buckeye State.

    What You Need To Know

    •  Four Ohio organizations were recgnized for water conservation efforts

    •  The Ohio Water Conservation Excellence Awards are a new award from ODNR

    • Organizations were named across the state

    ODNR’s Division of Water Resources is rewarding water withdrawal facilities for their conservation practices with the new Ohio Water Conservation Excellence Awards. Recipients were named for their effiency in using water while protecting Ohio’s water resources by promoting sustainability.

    “These award recipients represent Ohio’s innovation and dedication to responsible water use,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “Their efforts help safeguard Ohio’s water resources for future generations while demonstrating that environmental responsibility and operational success can work in tandem.”

    Recipients were named across the state, including: 

    • Blacklick Woods Golf Course, Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks: For its establishment of Zoysia grass on two courses and on other areas of the property. This type of grass thrives during hot summers with little to no watering
    • Turpin Farms, Cincinnati: For the development of 1785 Low Impact Turf, a sustainable turfgrass variety that, once established, requires no watering, fertilization or mowing.
    • PepsiCo Foods U.S., Wooster: ODNR said this location is receiving recognition for installing an advanced water filtration system which enables water reuse
    • Avon Lake Regional Water, Avon Lake: This award is for the installation of a large-scale wash water recycling system at the Avon Lake Water Filtration Plant which has conserved over 1.9 billion gallons of Lake Erie water since 2016, approximately 215 million gallons a year

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Walnut Hills ranks No. 1 in Ohio, among top 100 nationwide

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    CINCINNATI — For the second year in a row, Walnut Hills High School has been named the top public high school in Ohio by U.S. News & World Report, reinforcing its long-standing reputation for academic excellence.

    What You Need To Know

    • Walnut Hills High School has been named the top public high school in Ohio by U.S. News & World Report

    • The selective Cincinnati public school requires students to pass an entrance exam for admission

    • The report evaluated schools based on college readiness, graduation rates, state assessment performance, and other key metrics

    The selective Cincinnati public school, which requires students to pass an entrance exam for admission, draws students from across the city. Many students commute long distances for a chance to attend.

    “It’s really amazing to be in a place like this where I know that I am being prepared to reach those goals and follow my dreams,” said junior Satiana Hackworth, who balances sports, music and her role as a student ambassador.

    According to the rankings, Walnut Hills also placed No. 91 nationally out of nearly 18,000 high schools. The report evaluated schools based on college readiness, graduation rates, state assessment performance, and other key metrics.

    Walnut Hills performance breakdown:

    • Overall Score: 99.49 out of 100
    • Graduation Rate: 95% 
    • AP Participation: 91% 
    • Reading Proficiency: 97%

    “Our motto is ‘rise to the highest,’ and we walk it and talk it every single day,” said Principal John Chambers. “We’ve built a culture here that supports student success at every level.”

    Founded over 125 years ago, Walnut Hills offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum, including 35 Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The school also boasts a robust extracurricular landscape with hundreds of clubs and a dedicated student success center, which provides academic interventions and support.

    Hackworth, who plans to study biomedical engineering or nursing in college, said the school’s high standards and strong support systems help students stay on track.

    “I honestly was not surprised [by the ranking] because I think that we are a very good school,” she said. “We’re very competitive and colleges know about us.”

    Social studies teacher Michael Cabral, now in his fifth year at Walnut Hills, said the school’s culture of excellence keeps both students and faculty motivated.

    “Seeing these kids grow, change and evolve is probably the most rewarding part of the job,” he said. “It’s why my colleagues and I keep coming back here every day.”

    Walnut Hills improved both its national ranking and overall performance score compared to last year.

    Following Walnut Hills in the state rankings are Bexley High School, Ottawa Hills, Solon and Rocky River. Several other southwest Ohio schools also made the top 10, including Wyoming, Indian Hill, Madeira, Oakwood and Mariemont.

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    Javari Burnett

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  • Ohio Representatives look to strengthen penalties for political violence

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    OHIO — Following the deaths of political commentator Charlie Kirk and Minnesota Speaker Melissa Hortman, two Ohio Representatives have introduced legislation targeting political violence. 

    What You Need To Know

    •  Two Ohio Representatives have introduced legislation targeting political violence

    • Representatives Jack Daniels, R- New Franklin, and Josh Williams, R-Sylvania Township, introduced the legislation

    • Provisions included with the legislation include elevating politically motivated murder to aggravated murder, carrying a mandatory sentence of life without parole and making the crime eligible for the death penalty

    Representatives Jack Daniels, R- New Franklin, and Josh Williams, R-Sylvania Township, introduced the legislation, which looks to strengthen Ohio’s hate crime statutes by enhancing penalties for politically motivated violence. 

    “My thoughts and prayers are with the Kirk and Hortman families and any person who has fell victim to political violence. Political violence is unacceptable in all circumstances—whether directed at elected officials, staff, journalists or activists peacefully exercising their First Amendment rights,” said Rep. Daniels. “This bill sends a clear message: Violence has no place in our politics.”

    Provisions included with the legislation include elevating politically motivated murder to aggravated murder, carrying a mandatory sentence of life without parole and making the crime eligible for the death penalty. The legislation also establishes a political motivation specification that can be indicted and added to any violent felony. This will require a mandatory maximum sentence for the underlying offense and a 10-year mandatory sentence on the specification.

    “We must honor Charlie’s memory not with silence, but with action,” said Rep. Williams. “Violence based on political beliefs is a direct threat to our democracy, and this legislation ensures that such violence is punished to the fullest extent of the law.”

    The bill does not yet have a number or committee assignment.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Bengals QB Joe Burrow to have surgery on left toe and miss 3 months

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    CINCINNATI — Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow will undergo surgery on his injured left toe and is expected to be out for three months, a person with knowledge of the situation said Monday.

    What You Need To Know

    • The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the Bengals are not expected to make an announcement until coach Zac Taylor’s news conference later Monday

    • It is Burrow’s third major injury in his six seasons since being the top overall pick in the 2020 draft

    • Burrow was sacked by Jaguars defensive tackle Arik Armstead for a 5-yard loss at the Bengals 35-yard line with 9:02 remaining in the first half

    The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the Bengals are not expected to make an announcement until coach Zac Taylor’s news conference later Monday.

    It is Burrow’s third major injury in his six seasons since being the top overall pick in the 2020 draft and a major blow to Cincinnati, which is off to its first 2-0 start since 2018 and has postseason aspirations after missing the playoffs the past two seasons.

    Burrow left the Bengals’ locker room on crutches and wearing a boot on his left foot after injuring his toe during the second quarter of Cincinnati’s 31-27 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday.

    Burrow was sacked by Jaguars defensive tackle Arik Armstead for a 5-yard loss at the Bengals 35-yard line with 9:02 remaining in the first half. It was the second time Burrow had been sacked in the game.

    Burrow went into the sideline medical tent. He came out and walked briefly with a limp before heading to the locker room.

    “It’s tough right now. We’re going to be OK. He’s a strong guy,” wide receiver Tee Higgins said. “We look forward to seeing what the results are.”

    Burrow’s injury comes at an inopportune time for the Bengals, who play at Minnesota next week to begin a stretch of five straight opponents that made the playoffs last year.

    Jake Browning will be the starter in Burrow’s absence. He completed 21 of 32 passes for 241 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions.

    Browning also scored the go-ahead touchdown with 18 seconds remaining on a 1-yard leap.

    “He said, ‘Good job.’ He was dealing with the injury, so it was brief,” Browning said about his postgame conversation with Burrow.

    Browning has played 13 games for Cincinnati and went 4-3 as the starter two years ago when Burrow was sidelined.

    “I know it wasn’t my best game, but we won, so Sundays are happy,” Browning said. “But come Monday, we’ll come in and get better.”

    Burrow led the league last season with 4,918 passing yards and 43 TD passes last season. A knee injury in his rookie season in 2020 cost him six games, and a wrist injury in 2023 kept him out for the final seven games.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Ohio School Report Cards: Fewer students missing school

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    OHIO — The Ohio Department of Education has released its 2024-25 report card, which highlights progress and downfalls in schools across the state. 

    A few notable improvements this year compared to previous years were the decrease in chronic absenteeism, as well as the improvement of workforce readiness. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Chronic absenteeism is on a downward trend across the state

    • Students with disabilities are most affected by absenteeism

    • This year marked the first year the Ohio School Report Cards included a rating for College, Career, Workforce and Military Readiness component

    Absenteeism

    According to the report, chronic absenteeism is on a downward trend across the state. This year marked the lowest percentage of absences across the state since the COVID-19 pandemic. 

    For the 2024-25 school year, officials reported 25.1% absenteeism — a stark decline from the 30.2% reported for the 2022-23 school year. The department attributed the decline to targeted interventions and increased engagement. Efforts have included a multi-organization partnership with Stay in the Game! Network, which promotes the importance of students showing up and staying engaged. 

    As part of keeping students healthy and encouraging them to come to school, Gov. Mike DeWine, R-Ohio, and Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel, R-Ohio, have worked to expand school-based health centers. According to the Ohio Department of Health, the school-based health centers save students an average of three hours of classroom seat time. 

    There are currently 138 centers in operation, 43% of which have opened in the past five years, and they have served more than 70,000 patients statewide. 

    Other recent efforts include the newly launched Team Tressel Fitness Challenge for grades 4-8, which encourages students to set and achieve wellness goals, implement health habits in and out of the classroom, and focus on overall nutrition and exercise. To reduce distractions in schools, DeWine signed legislation this year that required all schools to adopt a cellphone policy by Jan. 1, 2026. 

    “In schools that have already banned cellphones, feedback from students, teachers, administrators and parents indicates that students are more engaged in their learning, performing better academically, and building stronger connections with one another,” the Ohio Department of Health stated in the report. 

    However, despite the decline, the Ohio Department of Education noted that about one in four students still miss more than 10% of the school year. The Ohio Department of Education added that students with disabilities experience a higher absenteeism rate than their peers.

    Workforce readiness

    This year marked the first year the Ohio School Report Cards included a rating for College, Career, Workforce and Military Readiness component. 

    According to the report, 61.4% of students who graduated in 2024 met at least one of Ohio’s 11 postsecondary readiness measures, which is a jump from 56.3% in 2023. In 2024, more students had a head start on college — 16% of them earned at least 12 college credits, which is an increase from 13.8% in 2023. 

    “These gains reflect a strong focus on career readiness, driven by strategic investments in career-technical education that prepare students with the skills and credentials needed for success beyond high school,” the Ohio Department of Health noted in the report. 

    To view your school or school district’s grades, click here.

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    Lydia Taylor

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  • Food and music take center stage during Hispanic Heritage Month

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    PAINESVILLE, Ohio — National Hispanic Heritage Month is an anomaly when it comes to heritage celebrations. 

    What You Need To Know

    • National Hispanic Heritage Month begins in the middle of September to honor countries’ independence days

    • Central American countries celebrate freedom from Spain on Sept. 15

    • The month celebrates contributions of Hispanic culture in the United States

    It starts on Sept. 15 each year instead of Sept. 1.

    History helped determine that date.

    Central American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua, all celebrate their independence from Spain on Sept. 15. Mexico celebrates on Sept. 16.

    Over the next month, festivals across the country will showcase some of the influence and contribution the Hispanic culture has had on the United States. But it’s also a month to celebrate freedom.

    “History is very complex of these countries. You had indigenous peoples who were basically colonized, conquered by Spain,” said Veronica Isabel Dahlberg, founder of Hola, Ohio — an organization that advocates for farm workers, immigrants and Latino families.

    She said the countries share a common thread, including culture, history and the language.

    Despite colonization, the culture endured for thousands of years, according to Dahlberg.

    “I would start with the corn tortilla. Corn, which was domesticated in Mexico from some grasses. By creating this corn, that then was harvested and used for a tortilla starting 10,000 years ago,” said Dahlberg. 

    Cities across the country will ring in the month with traditional music, dance and food.

    “We’re celebrating a taco festival in Ohio. I mean, that’s proof right there of the enduring and the resilient part of our culture,” Dahlberg said.

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    Kimberly Perez

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  • Bengals seeking opinions on Joe Burrow’s toe after injury

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    CINCINNATI — Joe Burrow left the Bengals’ locker room on crutches with a boot on his left foot after injuring his toe during the second quarter of Cincinnati’s 31-27 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Bengals are seeking second opinions on the injury

    • Burrow had an MRI on his toe

    • Burrow, who led the league last season with 4,918 passing yards and 43 TD passes, has had some serious injuries in his six-year career.

    How long the franchise quarterback could be out due to turf toe is something that will be weighed over the next couple days.

    The Bengals are seeking second opinions on the injury, a person with knowledge of the situation said Sunday night.

    The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because a final determination on Burrow’s treatment has not been made.

    Burrow had an MRI on his toe. Depending on the grade of the injury, surgery might be the only option, which would keep him out at least three months. The most optimistic outlook at the moment for Burrow is not having surgery, going on injured reserve and missing a minimum of four games.

    Burrow wasn’t made available for interviews after the game, and coach Zac Taylor also didn’t have an update on Burrow’s condition — little reassurance for Bengals fans worried about their star quarterback.

    “We had such a tight game, I don’t have all of the information right now,” Taylor said.

    Burrow was sacked by Jaguars defensive tackle Arik Armstead for a 5-yard loss at the Bengals 35-yard line with 9:02 remaining in the first half. It was the second time Burrow had been sacked in the game.

    Burrow went into the sideline medical tent. He came out and walked briefly with a limp before heading to the locker room.

    “It’s tough right now. We’re going to be OK. He’s a strong guy,” wide receiver Tee Higgins said. “We look forward to seeing what the results are.”

    Jake Browning came in for Burrow and rallied the Bengals to their first 2-0 start since 2018. Browning completed 21 of 32 passes for 241 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions.

    Browning scored the go-ahead touchdown with 18 seconds remaining on a 1-yard leap.

    “He said, ‘Good job.’ He was dealing with the injury, so it was brief,” Browning said about his postgame conversation with Burrow.

    Burrow, who led the league last season with 4,918 passing yards and 43 TD passes, has had some serious injuries in his six-year career. A knee injury in his rookie season in 2020 cost him six games, and a wrist injury in 2023 kept him out for the final seven games.

    Burrow was 7 of 13 for 76 yards and a 4-yard TD pass to Ja’Marr Chase against the Jaguars.

    Burrow’s injury comes at an inopportune time for the Bengals, who play at Minnesota next week to begin a stretch of five straight opponents that made the playoffs last year.

    Browning has played 13 games for Cincinnati and went 4-3 as the starter two years ago when Burrow was sidelined.

    “I know it wasn’t my best game, but we won, so Sundays are happy,” Browning said. “But come Monday, we’ll come in and get better.”

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Guide dog helps owner have first solo travel trip

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    CLEVELAND — Guide dogs are more than pets; for many, they’re a safety net, a navigation system and a source of independence.

    September is National Service Dog Month, celebrating the service dogs around the country, including northeast Ohio.

    What You Need To Know

    • September is National Service Dog Month
    • Achromatopsia is a rare genetic eye disorder that causes complete or partial loss of color vision
    • Dogs Inc. is an organization that provides guide and service dogs

    Jaclyn Schiemann is legally blind, and it wasn’t until she was 30-years-old that she was diagnosed with achromatopsia.

    “Everything to me is just blurry,” said Schiemann.

    Achromatopsia is a rare genetic eye disorder that causes complete or partial loss of color vision. Fewer than 50,000 people in the U.S. have this disorder.

    “I was born with it. I was originally diagnosed with rod cone dystrophy, and they thought I would be completely blind by the age of 16,” said Schiemann. “There wasn’t genetic testing when I was young.” 

    Schiemann said she sees a lot of shadows and she can’t see colors. In 2021, Schiemann applied for a guide dog. In June 2023, she was introduced to Tyrus.

    “The happiest day of my life.” Said Schiemann.

    A four-year-old purebred yellow American Lab who was trained by Dogs Inc. An organization that provides guide and service dogs. They currently have more than 700 active service and guide dog teams. Tyrus is trained to find curbs, steps, Schiemann’s mom, and to stop and avoid hazards.

    “I took my first trip solo.” Said Schiemann. “So, he has given me independence, courage, confidence to actually do something like that. This past February, we went to Disney World.”

    Schiemann said she never traveled alone when she was using a cane because she was afraid of tripping or running into something.

    “It’s nice to be on my own because I’ve always been so dependent on everybody,” said Schiemann. “To do anything, to go anywhere but with him I’m not scared to do that. I have a constant companion.”

    Schiemann said her goal is to go to as many national parks as she and Tyrus can. Their most recent was to Yellowstone and Grand Teton.

    “We’ve been to six national parks in two years.” Said Schiemann.

    Since getting Tyrus, Schiemann said she is able to experience a part of life she once thought was out of reach.

    “It’s life-changing, and it’s freeing, and it’s liberating, and it’s encouraging that I can go out and do stuff that I never thought I would do alone,” said Schiemann.

    If you know someone who could use a guide or service dog, Dogs Inc. provides them at no cost to the recipient once they are approved and matched with a dog.

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    Rose Todd

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  • Coach Ryan Day, wife Nina highlight mental health with students

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    HEBRON, Ohio — Ohio State football coach Ryan Day and his wife, Nina, spoke to students at Arts Impact Middle School on Friday about mental health as part of the “Day Time Break” program with Nationwide Children’s Hospital.

    What You Need To Know

    • Ryan and Nina Day shared the “Day Time Break” program at Arts Impact Middle School in partnership with Nationwide Children’s Hospital

    • The program aims to teach students facts about mental health and practical ways to care for themselves
    • The Days and hospital leaders emphasized the importance of early conversations to reduce stigma and prevent crises

    The couple joined hospital leaders at the assembly to share personal experiences and encourage students to recognize mental health challenges early, stressing that no one has to struggle in silence.

    Ryan Day said young people today face many challenges and he wants to ensure they have the resources to manage them. His wife, Nina, echoed that message, stressing the importance of letting students know they are not alone.

    “It’s so important to remind these kids that, you know, they’re not alone, that a lot of people are feeling what they’re feeling,” Nina Day said. “I remember being their age and feeling anxiety and not knowing what it was and having no one to really talk about it.”

    Nina Day also told students she lived with anxiety for two decades without speaking up. 

    “I suffered for 20 years in silence. And this is to show you that you don’t have to suffer alone,” she said.

    Nationwide Children’s Hospital Executive Clinical Director Ariana Hoet said parents should pay attention if a child seems persistently sad, anxious or irritable for weeks at a time, noting those changes in behavior may signal a deeper problem. She urged families to start conversations early rather than waiting until a crisis develops.

    Eighth grader Julius Scott said the assembly felt personal, sharing that he had lost someone close to suicide.

    “Mental health is actually very important to me because a few years back, one of my close friends, a family friend of my brother’s, yeah, killed himself because he was going through mental stuff,” Scott said.

    Coach Day left the group with a message of hope.

    “Every problem that you guys have, there is a solution,” he told students. “I don’t want anyone to ever think there’s such a big problem that we can’t solve it. But in order to do that, you have to communicate.”

    The Days said sleep, diet and building strong relationships are other ways youth can improve their mental health.

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    Saima Khan

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