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  • Cuyahoga and British national parks bond over similarities

    Cuyahoga and British national parks bond over similarities

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    CLEVELAND — National parks in the U.S. share some characteristics with parks in the UK.

    What You Need To Know

    • Dartmoor National Park in Devon, England and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park became sister parks 

    • CVNP developed a farming program in 1999 to preserve the valley’s pastoral landscape

    • DNP and CVNP are both within urban communities

    Dartmoor National Park in Devon, England and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park recently became sister parks because of their similarities.

    “It’s really a way for parks to share information, share best practices and become more connected globally,” said Lisa Petit, superintendent of Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

    She said Dartmoor reached out to CVNP to form the relationship because of their commonalities, including the fact that both parks have farmland within their boundaries.

    CVNP developed a farming program in 1999 to preserve the valley’s pastoral landscape and protect both natural and cultural resources.

    “Dartmoor looks very different from Cuyahoga Valley National Park. They are wide open land and have ancient bronze age archaeology on their site. To look at us, it looks very diff but we share similar issues of protection and restoration of natural resources,” Petit said.

    “Cuyahoga is restoring a landscape rather than managing a landscape because a lot of your huge national parks are really just managing what they’ve got there rather than trying to restore an ecosystem and a national park,” said Peter Harper, board member of Dartmoor National Park.

    In addition to both parks have farming land, the parks are both situated near urban communities and one of the main reasons Dartmoor reached out.

    “One of things we really noticed there was no rubbish anywhere. We didn’t see any litter anywhere. People really respect their national parks and we want to try to build on that in Dartmoor, so that people realize this is something very special for them and they need to look after it,” Harper said.

    The sister park agreement was signed in June and will last five years with the goal of exchanging ideas.

    “They learn a lot from our model, but we can also learn a lot from them. They do thing very differently than we do and, in some cases, do things better,” Petit.

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    Kimberly Perez

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  • Cuyahoga County offering oxygen tank refill stations

    Cuyahoga County offering oxygen tank refill stations

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    CUYAHOGA COUNTY, Ohio — Power outages can cause a number of problems, some of them more serious than others.

    That’s why the Cuyahoga County Office of Emergency Management — in a partnership with the Ohio Department of Health and Ohio Emergency Management Agency — is offering oxygen tank refill stations to those who need them as a result of the outages caused by Tuesday’s storms.

    “Patients and community members can bring up to three small (D & E cylinder) oxygen tanks for filling, free of charge,” reads a county press release. “The refill stations are for emergency usage; once the tanks are refilled, patients should call the phone number on their tank for follow-up supplies.”

    The filling station will be at the Brookpark Recreation Center Parking Lot, at 17400 Holland Road in Brookpark, Ohio, from 2 to 8 p.m. on Aug. 10 and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Aug. 11.

    They will announce more dates and locations once they are scheduled.

    Officials remind those in need that this is for refills only and that either the patient or their family can bring the tank to be filled.

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Updates: Northeast Ohioans remain without power after storms

    Updates: Northeast Ohioans remain without power after storms

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    CLEVELAND — Hundreds of thousands of northeast Ohioans are still without power Wednesday morning after strong storms blew through the region.

    From on the west side near Rocky River all the way to the east side in Euclid, fallen trees, downed power lines and debris lined the streets. 

    Here’s the latest from across NE Ohio:

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Rep. Dave Joyce appointed to task force investigating Trump shooting

    Rep. Dave Joyce appointed to task force investigating Trump shooting

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    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Dave Joyce, R-Ohio, was among the 13 lawmakers appointed to the bipartisan House task force investigating the July 13 attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump.

    What You Need To Know

    • The bipartisan House task force investigating the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump includes seven Republicans and six Democrats

    • The task force will investigate security failures and recommend changes

    • A final report is expected by Dec. 13

    In a rare sign of unity, House members voted unanimously, 416-0, to create the task force, which includes six Democrats and seven Republicans.

    Joyce was chosen as one of the Republicans. The former prosecutor has a deep background of handling official investigations. As a member of the House Ethics Committee, Joyce led the investigation that resulted in the expulsion of then-Rep. George Santos from the House.

    “I was honored that Speaker Johnson, put me on that task force,” Joyce said. “I appreciate the fact that he had confidence in my ability to do a long-term investigation like this and to make sure it’s something that the American people are going to be proud.”

    Several officials have already testified about  the security lapses that allowed a gunman to take a clear shot at Trump, including former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle. Her failure to answer basic questions about those security failures at an Oversight Committee hearing prompted both Republicans and Democrats to demand that she resign, which she did the next day.

     “I don’t think Director Cheadle’s, testimony before our committee was very worthwhile. So you’d probably have been better off staying home than coming in and doing what she did, because that seemed to infuriate a lot of folks,” Joyce said.

    The task force will draw on additional testimony given by officials in the weeks following the assassination attempt. The panel also has the power to subpoena other officials.

    Joyce said protecting presidential candidates was especially important heading into the November election.

    “Presidential protection details have to be not-fail missions. They can’t afford to panic,” he said. “And so it’s important to make sure that if there’s an issue with training, if there’s an issue with scope of duties, whatever it is, we get to the bottom of it and fix that and make sure it never happens again.”

    The task force’s final report is expected to detail what went wrong in the minutes and hours before the shooting, as well as lay out recommendations to prevent such a security failure from happening again.

    The findings will be released Dec. 13.

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    Harri Leigh

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  • Sen. Sherrod Brown announces millions for three northwest Ohio airports

    Sen. Sherrod Brown announces millions for three northwest Ohio airports

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    OHIO — Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-OH, announced more than $6 million for improvements at three northwest Ohio airports, according to a press release from his office.

    The $6,725,171 in investments was awarded via the Airport Improvement Program by the Department of Transportation’s Federation Aviation Administration.

    “Ohio airports are vital infrastructure supporting travel and commerce in our state,” Brown said in the release. “These investments will enhance safety and operations at Northwest Ohio airports and improve travel for Ohio families and businesses.”

    Of that money, $4,790,774 will go to the Wood County Regional Airport for work on runways and taxiways, $1,782,322 to the Eugene F. Kranz Toledo Express Airport for snow removal equipment and $152,075 to the Fostoria Metropolitan Airport for a terminal reconstruction.

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Seven players crowned hall of famers

    Seven players crowned hall of famers

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    CANTON, Ohio — Seven retired players were inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame Saturday afternoon. Randy Gradishar, Devin Hester, Julius Peppers, Andre Johnson, Steve McMichael, Dwight Freeney and Patrick Willis are the legends who get to experience the honor. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Seven retired players were inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday

    • Many of them thanking their friends, family, former coaches and teammates 

    • The seven inductees now have a permanent place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame where their legacy will live on 

    Many of them thanked their family and friends and all those who helped them along their journey to the Hall of Fame. Andre Johnson gave a lot of credit to his teammates as the reason why he’s able to put on the famous gold jacket.

    “What we miss about the game is not playing, it’s the locker room. You don’t understand, the bus rides, the plane rides, just going out to eat, things of that nature. People don’t understand that. That you spend more time with your teammates more than you do your family,” Johnson said.

    Julius Peppers shared in the sentiment by expressing his thankfulness for the people who played alongside him.

    “You guys are the reason that I worked so hard and a big part of the reason that I’m standing up here today. You motivated me, you inspired me and we held each other accountable,” Peppers said.

    Randy Gradishar thanked his wife, his church, and former coaches. He also took the time to thank those who helped put the entire Hall of Fame week together. 

    “I want to thank you, the prep team, for your tireless work, which you gave me and everyone a fantastic week this week,” Gradishar said.

    Football legends, fans, family and friends came together in the birthplace of the NFL to celebrate the new hall of famers. 

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    Katie Priefer

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  • Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael enters the Pro Football HOF in ceremony at his home

    Steve ‘Mongo’ McMichael enters the Pro Football HOF in ceremony at his home

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    Steve McMichael couldn’t make it to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, so the ceremony came to him.

    Battling ALS and bedridden in the advanced stages of the neurological disease, the 66-year-old two-time All-Pro defensive tackle was the second player enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame among seven members of the Class of 2024 on Saturday.

    What You Need To Know

    • Steve McMichael couldn’t make it to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, so the ceremony came to him

    • Battling ALS and bedridden in the advanced stages of the neurological disease, the 66-year-old two-time All-Pro defensive tackle was the second player enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame among seven members of the Class of 2024 on Saturday
    • McMichael was surrounded by several of his Chicago Bears teammates and his wife, Misty, at his home in Homer Glen, Illinois
    • Dwight Freeney, Randy Gradishar, Devin Hester, Andre Johnson, Julius Peppers and Patrick Willis also were going into the Hall

    Surrounded by several of his Chicago Bears teammates and his wife, Misty, at his home in Homer Glen, Illinois, McMichael wore his gold jacket, and his bronze bust was unveiled live in a touching tribute.

    “You are on a team that you can never be cut from and never be released from. When you die, you’ll always be on this team. Welcome home, Steve. You’re in football heaven forever,” Hall of Famer Richard Dent said, patting McMichael on the head.

    Misty McMichael wiped tears as she turned her husband’s head toward the bronze bust.

    “That’s you, baby, forever,” she said.

    Jim McMahon, quarterback of the 1985 Bears Super Bowl championship team, watched the scene unfold on a video screen from the in-person event at Tom Benson Stadium in Canton, Ohio. Many Bears supporters shed tears watching McMichael.

    Nicknamed “Mongo” and known for his brash and boisterous personality, McMichael was the most feared player on one of the greatest defenses in NFL history. He became the fourth defensive player from the 1985 team to enter the Hall, joining Dent, Mike Singletary and Dan Hampton.

    Former NFL player Dwight Freeney, second from right, and his presenter Jim Irsay, lower left, unveil Freeney’s bust during an induction ceremony at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, in Canton, Ohio, Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024. (AP Photo/David Dermer)

    McMichael’s sister, Kathy, read a speech that she began working on with her brother before he lost his ability to move and speak.

    “I want to thank the Chicago Bears and the fans, the best city to play football in,” Kathy McMichael said. “I played 15 years in the NFL and loved every minute of every down. I played with the greatest players and the greatest defense to this day.”

    Jarret Payton, son of Bears Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton, presented McMichael, who called Payton a “pseudo-son” in the speech read by his sister.

    “The only thing bigger than his personality is his heart,” Payton said.

    McMichael played in a franchise-record 191 consecutive games from 1981 to 1993 and ranks second to Dent on the Bears’ all-time sacks list with 92 1/2. His final NFL season was with Green Bay in 1994 and McMichael went on to become a media fixture, discussing the Bears on talk radio. He also became a wrestling star, joining Ric Flair’s “Four Horseman” group.

    The ceremony was delayed nearly two hours because of heavy rain and lightning. Similar weather on Thursday night forced the preseason opener between the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans to be stopped with 18 minutes remaining.

    Dwight Freeney, a three-time All-Pro defensive end with the Indianapolis Colts, was the first player enshrined.

    Freeney was playing soccer in high school when the football coach took him off the field. It was a life-changing move.

    “My parents are both Jamaican, so soccer was in my blood,” Freeney said. “If it wasn’t for my high school coach, Jack Cochran, pulling me off that soccer field and convincing me to play this great game, I wouldn’t be on this stage today. Your invaluable lessons in work ethic have stayed with me for my entire life. You also taught me what it takes to become a champion.”

    Randy Gradishar, Devin Hester, Andre Johnson, Julius Peppers and Patrick Willis also were set to be enshrined.

    Colts owner Jim Irsay, who is recovering from a fall, introduced Freeney in a video message. Irsay then was brought on stage in a wheelchair to help unveil Freeney’s bronze bust.

    “He arguably was the best Colt defensive player in our 60-plus year history,” Irsay said.

    Considered too small by some analysts and a reach when the Colts selected him No. 11 overall in the 2002 draft, Freeney quickly proved doubters wrong and thrived in coach Tony Dungy’s Tampa-2 defensive scheme.

    He lasted 11 seasons in Indianapolis and played 16 total, registering 125 1/2 sacks, many using his signature swing move. He forced 47 fumbles, made seven Pro Bowls and earned one Super Bowl ring.

    In his speech, Freeney apologized to his mother for scaring her when he jumped out of a babysitter’s second-story window at age 2.

    “Maybe that daredevil helped me create my spin move,” he joked.

    Dungy, former Colts assistant Bruce Arians and Hall of Fame Colts quarterback Peyton Manning were among those who came out to celebrate Freeney’s induction. Basketball Hall of Famer Michael Jordan also was part of Freeney’s party. Freeney plays golf with Jordan.

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    Associated Press

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  • Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Enshrinement delayed due to heavy rain

    Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Enshrinement delayed due to heavy rain

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    CANTON, Ohio — The Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Enshrinement of the Class of 2024 start time has been delayed due to heavy rain. 

    In a post on social media, the Hall of Fame said they would provide more details as they become available. Their website says it will be inside the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton about an hour after lightning has cleared.

    In a follow-up post Saturday afternoon, the Hall of Fame posted an update that the gates are now open.

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    Cody Thompson

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  • MLB-leading Guardians beat Orioles 8-4 for 5th straight win

    MLB-leading Guardians beat Orioles 8-4 for 5th straight win

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    CLEVELAND (AP) — Josh Naylor had three hits and drove in two runs, Austin Hedges had two RBIs and the MLB-leading Cleveland Guardians scored eight consecutive runs in beating the Baltimore Orioles 8-4 on Friday night for their fifth straight win.

    What You Need To Know

    • Josh Naylor had three hits and drove in two runs, Austin Hedges had two RBIs and the MLB-leading Cleveland Guardians scored eight consecutive runs in beating the Baltimore Orioles 8-4

    • The Guardians, winners of five straight, own the best record in baseball at 67-42 and lead the American League Central by six games over Kansas City

    • They have won the first two games of the series by an 18-7 margin over the Orioles, who fell behind the Yankees in the AL East

    • The Guardians also have the best home record in the majors at 35-15

    The Guardians own the best record in baseball at 67-42 and lead the American League Central by six games over the Kansas City Royals. They have won the first two games of the series by an 18-7 margin over the Orioles, who fell behind the Yankees in the AL East.

    “It seemed like we just kept the line moving and kept tacking on (runs),” Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt said. “Guys weren’t trying to do too much and they ran the bases really well. It seems like we’re running with our heads up and doing a great job.”

    No one moreso than Hedges, who scored from second base on José Ramírez’s sacrifice fly in the sixth inning when Steven Kwan was caught in a rundown, but made his way back to first. Brayan Rocchio initially came home on the play that put Cleveland up 8-1.

    “I know I’m not necessarily the guy that’s bringing us wins from baserunning, so anytime I’m doing something like that, it’s pretty exciting for the boys,” said Hedges, a 31-year-old catcher. “When you get back in the dugout, it’s pretty cool.”

    Cade Smith (6-1) retired all five batters he faced for the victory. Carlos Carrasco started, going 4 1/3 innings and allowing one run on one hit for the Guardians, who also have the best home record in the majors at 35-15.

    “The fans’ support, it has been unbelievable, man,” Carrasco said. “Even here and the road, everywhere.”

    Colton Cowser and Jackson Holliday each had RBI singles in a three-run seventh for Baltimore. Cowser extended his hitting streak to 15 games and fellow rookie Holliday had his first two-hit performance.

    Orioles third baseman Coby Mayo, one of the top prospects in baseball, went 0 for 2 with two walks and a run in his debut. The 22-year-old was recalled from Triple-A Norfolk earlier Friday to fill in for the injured Jordan Westburg.

    “Just an unreal experience,” Mayo said. “I’m glad it’s over, getting the first one out of the way, so tomorrow will be a normal day.”

    Dean Kremer (4-8) gave up four runs in five innings. Gregory Soto followed and allowed four runs while recording one out in his first appearance since being acquired from Philadelphia.

    Rocchio drew a bases-loaded walk off Kremer and Kwan did the same against Soto. Lane Thomas walked in the eighth to reach base for the 28th consecutive game, the longest active streak in the majors.

    Mayo batted .301 with 20 homers and 61 RBIs in 77 games with the Tides, leading the International League with a .586 slugging percentage. He was a fourth-round selection in the 2020 draft.

    Trainer’s Room

    Guardians: RHP Tanner Bibee (right shoulder tightness) will not make his scheduled start Saturday and Vogt said he won’t have his status updated until later in the weekend.

    Up Next

    Orioles RHP Zach Eflin (6-7, 4.11 ERA) takes on Guardians LHP Joey Cantillo (0-0, 8.10 ERA) in the third game of the series. Eflin was acquired from Tampa Bay on July 26 and won his initial start with Baltimore over the Blue Jays.

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    Associated Press

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  • Cleveland Metroparks issues top 10 hikes for hot days

    Cleveland Metroparks issues top 10 hikes for hot days

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    CLEVELAND — Sometimes the hardest part about a hike can be finding the right trail.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Cleveland Metroparks may be able to help with their August “Ten Hikes for Hot Days” list

    • If you are hiking in the heat, be sure to do so with cation

    • The National Park Service has several tips for hikers trekking through the warm weather

    As the warm weather continues throughout this month, the Cleveland Metroparks may be able to help with their August “Ten Hikes for Hot Days” list.

    In this list, they provide a list of 10 locations for hikes, featuring shaded areas that will let you spend time outside away from the harsh rays of the sun.

    Here’s where they recommend:

    • Hemlock Trail at the Brecksville Reservation     
    • Mount Pleasant Loop Trail at the Rocky River Reservation
    • Waterfall to Overlook Hike at the Bedford Reservation
    • Cahoon Creek Loop at the Bradley Woods Reservation
    • Hickory Fox Loop at the North Chagrin Reservation
    • Worden’s Ledges Trail at the Hinckley Reservation
    • Ridgetop Trail at the Garfield Park Reservation
    • Sulphur Springs Loop at the South Chagrin Reservation
    • Skinner’s Run Trail at the West Creek Reservation
    • Snow Road Trail at the Big Creek Reservation

    If you are hiking in the heat, be sure to do so with cation. The National Park Service has several tips for hikers trekking through the warm weather.

    If the weather is hot, they recommend:

    • Starting before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
    • Wear sunscreen as well as a hat and sunglasses to avoid the sun’s harsh rays
    • Wear light colored clothes that don’t weigh a lot and that are loose-fitting
    • Pack water and drink plenty of it
    • Pack salty snacks to replace the electrolytes you lose as you sweat
    • If needed, use a wet towel or shirt to cool yourself
    • Be careful if going into water to cool down, watching for currents and cold temperatures (follow park swimming rules)
    • If you get too hot, stop hiking and turn around

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Ohio State Highway Patrol offers school bus safety reminders

    Ohio State Highway Patrol offers school bus safety reminders

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Now that it’s August, kids will be returning to school in the coming weeks.

    That means buses will be back on the road, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol is offering some safety reminders to drivers as well as some sobering statistics.

    What You Need To Know

    • As kids head back to school soon, that means buses will be back on the road

    • The Ohio State Highway Patrol is offering some safety reminders to drivers as well as some sobering statistics

    • They say in a press release that school buses have been involved in 6,145 crashes since 2019

    They say in a press release that school buses have been involved in 6,145 crashes since 2019, eight of which resulted in fatalities, and one student was killed on a bus.

    “It’s crucial that everyone commits to helping school bus riders get to and from their destinations safely each day,” said Gov. Mike DeWine in the release. “Bus safety isn’t just the responsibility of the bus driver – other drivers, parents, and students  all have a role to play.”

    The OSHP reminds drivers of the following:

    • You must stop a minimum of 10 feet in front of or behind a bus if it’s lights are flashing and the extended arm is out
    • You cannot proceed driving until the bus starts moving
    • Be aware that buses on the road can cause delays to your commute

    The OSHP said it has done 200,000 inspections on buses since 2019, a process that should occur to every bus twice a year.

    “I am incredibly proud of the dedication our personnel puts into inspecting school buses across Ohio,” said Col. Charles Jones, Patrol superintendent, in the release. “Their commitment and attention to detail in every inspection helps prevent potential hazards and plays a crucial role in protecting the lives of students every day.”

    The Patrol also noted that in October of 2022, all Ohio school buses were equipped with “highly-reflective STOP decals” on the back for better visibility.

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    Cody Thompson

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  • BGSU receives grant to recruit, train student poll workers

    BGSU receives grant to recruit, train student poll workers

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    BOWLING GREEN, Ohio — Bowling Green State University was one of 21 universities across the country—and the only one in Ohio—that received a grant from the Help America Vote College Program to recruit/train students to be poll workers come election day.

    What You Need To Know

    • Bowling Green State University was one of 21 universities across the country—and the only one in Ohio—that received a grant from the Help America Vote College Program to recruit/train students to be poll workers come election day

    • This federal grant was made available to contend with the nationwide poll worker shortage
    • There are a few requirements for interested students

    • The compensation, in addition to the experience, is up to $200 as well as paid training

    A press release from the university said this federal grant was made available to contend with the nationwide poll worker shortage. The university cites the Election Assistance Commission in stating that a presidential election requires 1 million poll workers.

    “The C. Raymond Marvin Center for Student Leadership and Civic Engagement will use the two-year, $77,000 grant to establish a Poll Worker Program to recruit and train about 300 eligible BGSU students to work at polling locations in Wood, Lucas, Hancock, Sandusky and Huron counties,” the release reads.

    The associate director of the Marvin Center, Kendra Lutes, stressed that this does more than fill an immediate need.

    “Working at the polls is such a unique way of giving back to the community,” Lutes said in the release. “One day, our students may run for office, attend town hall meetings or advocate for issues to local representatives. Being a poll worker affords students an additional method to serve their communities in a valuable capacity.”

    There are a few requirements for interested students. They must be 17 years old, and they must be registered to vote in one of the five counties this grant covers. They’ll also be required to attend the required training at a county board of elections.

    The university will also offer other training and workshops to these students, according to the release. The compensation, in addition to the experience, is up to $200 as well as paid training. The release notes that those who need to travel will have their mileage reimbursed.

    The university also highlights its BGSU Votes, an initiative focused on “voter and political engagement to increase the knowledge and develop the skills of students to engage in democracy, politics, policymaking, and social action.”

    The release says students will also be connected to university alumni who went through the poll worker program and remain poll workers to this day.  

    “We want students to leave BGSU feeling connected to their democracy and feeling like they have agency over what happens in their community, state and our country,” Lutes said in the release. “Becoming a poll worker deepens the relationship our students have with the community and affords them another opportunity to engage civically.”

    Recruitment begins at the start of the fall semester.

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Andre Johnson dedicating Hall of Fame honor to Houston

    Andre Johnson dedicating Hall of Fame honor to Houston

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    HOUSTON (AP) — Andre Johnson knows his induction to the Pro Football Hall of Fame isn’t simply about him.

    What You Need To Know

    • Andre Johnson knows his induction to the Pro Football Hall of Fame isn’t simply about him

    • As the first Houston Texan to become a member of the esteemed group, the receiver is representing so much more

    • Johnson didn’t join the expansion team until its second year, when he was taken with the third overall pick in the 2003 draft

    • But he quickly became a star and the face of the fledging franchise

    As the first Houston Texan to become a member of the esteemed group, the receiver is representing so much more.

    “This was for the whole city of Houston. It’s for the whole organization,” Johnson said. “Just hearing … grown men telling me that they were crying. Having people tell you that God gave us a superhero here in Houston. Those are things that you don’t even realize how people look up to you or (how) you playing that game can affect a city.”

    Johnson didn’t join the expansion team until its second year, when he was taken with the third overall pick in the 2003 draft. But he quickly became the star — and face of the fledging franchise.

    “I can’t think of anyone more deserving to be the Texans’ first Hall of Fame inductee than Andre Johnson,” Texans owner Cal McNair said. “Every time he took the field, we knew he was bringing an incomparable passion and intensity that was a joy to watch. His impact across our community is immeasurable and we are thrilled he has secured his rightful place in NFL history forever.”

    He spent 12 seasons in Houston, where he remains atop the team’s receiving records. He had 1,012 receptions for 13,597 yards and 64 touchdowns and notched 51 100-yard games while with the Texans.

    Johnson finished his career with a season each in Indianapolis and Tennessee to reach 14,185 yards receiving, which is the 11th most yards receiving in NFL history.

    He had seven 1,000-yard receiving seasons and surpassed 1,500 yards three times, including in 2012 when he piled up a career-high 1,598 yards.

    Johnson spent his first three seasons playing for coach Dom Capers, but believes things started to change for him when Gary Kubiak took over in the 2006 season.

    Kubiak, Johnson said, told him after his first season in Houston that things were going to be a bit different moving forward.

    “He was like: ‘Hey, I’m going to have to move you around. You’re going to have to learn everything that goes on in the offense,’” Johnson said. “And I learned every position. If you look at some games, there was some games I even lined up at fullback and he would motion me out of the backfield.”

    Johnson missed seven games with injuries in 2007 before posting some of his best seasons in the next two years. He led the NFL with 1,575 yards receiving in 2008 and topped the league again in 2009 with 1,569 yards.

    “I give coach Kubiak a lot of credit because I guess there was just something that he saw in me as a player, and it helped elevate my game,” Johnson said. “It helped take my game to another level.”

    For that, he selected Kubiak to present him at the ceremony Saturday.

    Johnson led the Texans to their first winning record with his spectacular 2009 season and helped the team to its first playoff berth in 2011 followed by another playoff appearance in 2012.

    In those playoff years, Johnson starred on offense and J.J. Watt became the team’s defensive star. The defensive end, who is almost sure to soon join Johnson in the Hall of Fame, beamed as he congratulated his former teammate on the honor in a video released by the Texans.

    “Congratulations, you have earned it. You deserve it,” Watt said. “You have a gold jacket and you will now and forever be remembered as one of the greatest players to ever play this game and damn is that rightfully so.”

    Johnson, who stills lives in Houston, has been bombarded by fans around town since he was elected to the Hall of Fame. The soft-spoken star normally shies away from attention but has embraced the hubbub during this special time.

    And he expects the love that he’s gotten in Houston to continue during his trip to Ohio for the ceremony.

    “I already told people in Canton that they better get ready, because Houston’s going to show up and show out,” Johnson said. “But just the love I’ve received from this city and the fans, it’s truly been great. It’s been a fun time.”

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    Associated Press

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  • Ohio bill would require all pro teams to play on natural surfaces

    Ohio bill would require all pro teams to play on natural surfaces

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — When it comes to defending his bill to require all of Ohio’s professional sports stadiums to use natural grass, second-term state Rep. Rodney Creech says he has one motivation: “Player safety, player safety, player safety.”

    What You Need To Know

    • The western Ohio Republican, who majored in agronomy and runs a turfgrass business, announced the measure Tuesday alongside co-sponsoring Rep. Terrence Upchurch, a Cleveland Democrat, and a representative from the NFL Players Association

    • The Bengals are among teams choosing improved soft plastic grass surfaces that look and feel increasingly like the real thing over natural grass

    • The Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Guardians already play on natural turf, as do most of the state’s professional baseball and soccer teams

    The western Ohio Republican, who majored in agronomy and runs a turfgrass business, announced the measure Tuesday alongside co-sponsoring Rep. Terrence Upchurch, a Cleveland Democrat, and a representative from the NFL Players Association.

    Creech pledged before reporters that he would never bid on any of the jobs that his legislation might create, but he said he is wading into the sports world’s grass vs. turf debate exactly because he has expertise in the field. His bill would require that playing surfaces at professional stadiums across the state be comprised of not less than 90% natural gas. The measure contains no penalties or deadlines.

    The legislation, House Bill 605, comes in the wake of the Cincinnati Bengals’ decision this winter to install synthetic turf at Paycor Stadium, at a cost of nearly $1 million, as part of a major upgrade of the stadium. A message was left with the team spokesperson seeking comment.

    The Bengals are among teams choosing improved soft plastic grass surfaces that look and feel increasingly like the real thing over natural grass, which is costly to keep up and maintain.

    The Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Guardians already play on natural turf, as do most of the state’s professional baseball and soccer teams, Upchurch said.

    “Although we go to the games mainly to enjoy them, get out of the house and have some fun with family, the safety of the players should be a top priority,” he said. “It was found that at games, whether it was baseball, football or soccer, that occur on natural grass surfaces, result in fewer non-contact injuries.”

    Creech said he looks forward to the bill having a hearing when lawmakers return to Columbus after the election. He said he would entertain extending the requirement to high school athletics, once he sees how this bill goes.

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    Associated Press

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  • Young athletes in Cleveland to compete at the 2024 AAU Junior Olympics

    Young athletes in Cleveland to compete at the 2024 AAU Junior Olympics

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    CLEVELAND — Six-year-old Naomi Maxwell is one of a dozen young athletes preparing for the Amateur Athletic Union’s Junior Olympics in Greensboro, North Carolina, this year.

    What You Need To Know

    • Twelve young atheltes from a track team in Cleveland will be comepting in the 2024 AAU Junior Olympics in Greensborough, North Carolina

    • These athletes are part of Good2Great, a youth development program in Cleveland that has its own track team of children from ages 5 to 18

    • The Junior Olympics track and field competition will begin July 28 and go throguh Aug. 3 at the Triust Stadium at North Carolina A&T State University


    “We have practice Monday, Wednesday and Friday,” Maxwell said. 

    Naomi and her peers are part of Good2Great, a youth development program based in Cleveland that formed a track team in 2018. 

    Cordale Scott, former Glenville High School and University of Toledo Football Star, said the group has one mission.

    “To use track to tap into the kid’s character or, you know, mentorship, things like that,” Scott said. “So we use sports to tap into the kids’ mindset.”

    Athletes from ages 5 to 18 can join. Nia Sims began track at 12 years old, and now after three years, is competing in the Junior Olympics for the first time.

    “I’m very excited,” Sims said. “I have a lot of support from friends, family, but also kind of nervous because it’s going against kids all over the nation, not just from Ohio.” 

    Sims qualified for the competition last year, but she lacked the financial means to go. This year, her loved ones made sure that didn’t happen.

    “My mom did like a GoFundMe, for, like, the expenses to go. So we raised over $400, I mean, $4000,” Sims said.

    Like Sims, young athlete Alexander Ellison won’t let any obstacle get in his way.

    “Alex had an injury during indoor, and then he was able to come back and really compete at a high level and make it to nationals,” Scott said. “ So very excited for Alex to be able to experience this year.”

    Now less than three months away, these athletes say they’re ready to hit the track and take home the gold.

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    Tanya Velazquez

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  • Ohioans can bet on Olympics for the first time

    Ohioans can bet on Olympics for the first time

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    The Summer Olympics are underway in Paris, and while many will be rooting for Ohioans or other U.S. athletes, it will also be the first time in Ohio that fans at home can bet on the games.

    Spectrum News 1 spoke with Derek Longmeier with Problem Gambling Network of Ohio about this subject.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Pedaling across Ohio raises money for cancer society

    Pedaling across Ohio raises money for cancer society

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    CLEVELAND — Janet and Chris Winston love all the outdoor opportunities that Ohio has to offer.

    They’ll get to see a whole lot of it when they bike ride 328 miles from Cleveland to Cincinnati.

    What You Need To Know

    • Nearly 300 riders took part in Pan Ohio Hope Ride across Ohio

    • The ride raises funds for the Hope Lodge

    • Cyclists will ride for four days and stay the night in college dorm rooms

    The Winstons are riding in the 18th annual Pan Ohio Hope Ride.

    The ride is hosted by the American Cancer Society. Its goal is to raise $1 million for the Cleveland Hope Lodge which provides free, temporary housing for people receiving cancer treatment in Cleveland.

    “We all have people that have been touched by cancer. My bro passed away a couple years ago. My wife, both her mother and father passed away from cancer,” Chris said.

    The Winstons will be the only ones doing the ride on a tandem bicycle and there’s no taking it easy for the one in the back seat.

    “I can tell when she’s cheating,” Chris said with a laugh.

    “When he pedals, I pedal,” said Janet.

    Riding tandem is a true team effort.

    “I’m a foot shorter, so I can’t see if there’s a stop sign coming up, so he has to let me know,” Janet said.

    Participants will take off from John Carrol University. They’ll make stops at College of Wooster, Otterbein University and Wright State University. They’ll spend the night in dorm rooms that go unused during the summer months.

    Chris said people join for the ride but stay for the cause.

    “It’s like bicycle summer day camp. All you do for four days: wake up, ride, drink, sleep, repeat for four days,” Chris said.

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    Kimberly Perez

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  • ‘The Old Farmer’s Almanac’ predicts cooler fall

    ‘The Old Farmer’s Almanac’ predicts cooler fall

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    OHIO — Enjoy the heat while we have it.

    The “Old Farmer’s Almanac” has released its fall forecast for 2024 and predicts that much of the Midwest, including Ohio, will experience below-average temperatures this fall. That pocket of predicted colder weather extends east, stretching from Rhode Island all the way down to Florida.

    If you’re looking for warmer weather, the almanac predicts you’ll just need to cross a few state lines. Just to our west, the almanac is predicting above-average tempuratures for much of the western portion of the U.S. This includes states like Iowa, Missouri, Texas and others.

    The very northeast of the country, including part of New York, Vermont and Maine; the south, including Louisiana and Alabama; and a couple states in the Midwest including Minnesota and Wisconsin are predicted to experience near-average temperatures

    The “Old Farmer’s Almanac” was started in 1792 and is known for making long-term weather predictions, though there is some doubt as to the accuracy and reliability of its predictions.

    The prediction by the almanac is in contrast to the prediction from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Their Climate Prediction Center is predicting above-average temps for September through November this year.

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Ohio among top 20 states for at-risk youth, report says

    Ohio among top 20 states for at-risk youth, report says

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    OHIO — A new report from the personal financial website WalletHub shows Ohio is among the states with the most at-risk youth. 

    The ranking was based on employment and education, as well as overall health. These categories included youth poverty rates, rates of teen pregnancy, homeless youth, young people who are overweight, those without a high school diploma and much more. 

    Ohio ranked 15th out of the 50 states and District of Columbia.

    “A high share of youth who are not working, not getting education and generally stagnating in life can spell trouble for the future,” wrote Cassandra Happe, a WalletHub analyst, in the report. “States that are most impacted by this problem, as well as related issues like high youth poverty rates, widespread drug use and low test scores, need a wake-up call to invest more into improving conditions for young residents. Otherwise, the future economic and social progress of the state is in danger.”

    Additionally, Ohio was also ranked third for having the highest percentage of overweight and obese youth. 

    The top 10 states with the most at-risk youth are as follows:

    1. Louisiana
    2. New Mexico
    3. West Virginia
    4. Alaska
    5. Arkansas
    6. Oklahoma
    7. Mississippi
    8. Montana
    9. Wyoming
    10. Oregon

    View the full report here.

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    Lydia Taylor

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  • Fun for everyone: Ohio State Fair announces more accessibility resources

    Fun for everyone: Ohio State Fair announces more accessibility resources

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio State Fair is meant to entertain people, and the fair and Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) are working to make sure that entertainment can be shared by as many people as possible.

     

    There will be charging stations for wheelchairs/mobility devices, remote agents to help people who are blind or have low vision navigate, ASL interpreters and more. And if you need more information, you can visit OOD’s mobile unit by the Lausche Youth Exploration Space.

     

    “Ohio is the heart of it all, and we want people of all abilities to be able to enjoy everything our great State Fair has to offer,” said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said in an OOD press release. “The Ohio State Fair provides a wealth of supports for individuals with disabilities, and this year our goal is to make it the most enjoyable yet for every person who comes through the gates.”

     

    The mobility device charging stations can be found in various places at the fair:

     

    Bricker MarketPlace Building

    Kasich Hall

    The Lausche Youth Exploration Space

    Natural Resources Park pavilion

    Voinovich Livestock and Trade Center

    WCOL Celeste Center

     

    “The Ohio State Fair offers a rejuvenating break from work and our daily routine,” OOD Director Kevin Miller said in the release. “Since fairgoers usually spend the entire day on the grounds, it’s important that charging stations are available to sustain wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility devices.”

     

    OOD also worked with the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio, according to the release, to provide those are blind or have low vision with Aira. That’s an app that describes itself as able to connect “people who are blind or low vision to professional visual interpreters for secure access to visual information, anytime, anywhere.”

     

    It works via GPS, and these remote agents can help these fairgoers get to where they’re going.

     

    American Sign Language interpreters will be present at the following events, according to OOD:

     

    Ohio State Fair opening ceremony on July 24

    Sale of Champions Livestock Auction on August 4

    Natural Resources Park Great Lakes Timber (lumberjack) shows

    Marvelous Mutts shows at The Dog House

    Ticketed concerts in the WCOL Celeste Center

     

    There will be other, daily scheduled events with ASL interpretation as well, according to the release.

     

    From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 25, the fair will also have a “sensory-friendly morning.” That means rides with no flashing lights or music as well as educational activities and more.

     

    “On sensory-friendly morning, the sights, sounds, and stimuli are reduced to enable individuals to experience our incredible State Fair in a way that helps them feel more comfortable and engaged,” said Shawn Henry, OCALI Executive Director, in the release.

     

    There will also be two “adjustable-height universal changing tables” at the fair, one at the First Aid Center and the other at the Ag Pro Taft Coliseum family restroom.

     

    “At the Ohio State Fair, we believe that accessibility is not just a checkbox; it’s a continuous journey of improvement and inclusivity,” said Adam Heffron, Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds executive director, in the release. “We’re dedicated to building upon our existing accessibility efforts, working diligently to create an environment that is welcoming and accessible to all.”

     

    Finally, OOD also includes a list of other accessibility efforts being made at the fair this year:

     

    Ample accessible parking spaces

    Accessible buildings and restrooms

    Motorized scooter and non-motorized wheelchair rentals

    A Quiet Room situated just east of Central Park, equipped to provide sensory relief

    Communication boards for fairgoers who are nonverbal, available at all guest information services booths and on the Ohio State Fair accessibility webpage, featuring Fair-specific symbols to facilitate navigation and encourage exploration of Fair offerings

    Accessible seats for concerts in the WCOL Celeste Center can be purchased at the same cost directly from Ticketmaster (to view accessible seats, click the “filters” button, then toggle on the “accessibility” button to see)

    Free assisted listening devices for use at the WCOL Celeste Center, Main Street Stage presented by Ohio Lottery, and Wellcare Gazebo Stage

    Audio descriptions for select exhibits and attractions, available within the Ohio State Fair app

    Art Possible Ohio exhibit in Kasich Hall C, featuring artwork by Ohio artists with disabilities

    Service animal relief areas with pick-up bags and waste receptacles at the Rhodes Center Lawn, Central Park, and Natural Resources Park

    Designated accessible seating at additional stages

    Accessible play area at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Park

    Accessible picnic tables throughout the Fair

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    Cody Thompson

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