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Tag: Ohio Cleveland Top Stories

  • Officials warn of ongoing jury scam in Summit County

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Gov. DeWine endorses Vivek Ramaswamy for governor

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    OHIO — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, R-Ohio, has announced his endorsement for the 2026 governor’s race, backing Vivek Ramaswamy. 

    What You Need To Know

    • DeWine endorsed Vivek Ramaswamy and running mate Rob McColley

    • Ramaswamy announced his running mate would be Rob McColley for lieutenant governor

    • “With the election year upon us, I am joining Republicans across Ohio in supporting our dynamic ticket for Governor, led by Vivek Ramaswamy,” DeWine said in a news release. 

    “With the election year upon us, I am joining Republicans across Ohio in supporting our dynamic ticket for Governor, led by Vivek Ramaswamy,” DeWine said in a news release. “Ohio is winning new business projects from the coasts, and Vivek will keep the momentum going. Vivek Ramaswamy knows that Ohio is the best state to build a business, raise a family, and pursue your vision of the American dream.”

    Ramaswamy announced his running mate would be Rob McColley for lieutenant governor earlier this week. 

    “The first important decision any Governor makes is who will be his or her choice for Lieutenant Governor. Vivek Ramaswamy has made a great pick in Senate President Rob McColley to be his running mate,” DeWine said. “Senate President McColley is a strong leader who is well respected by the members of the General Assembly. He knows Ohio and brings geographical balance to the ticket.”

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Cleveland City Council sworn into office after redistricting

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    CLEVELAND —  A new, 15-member Cleveland City Council has officially been sworn into office after redistricting resulted in the loss of two seats this election cycle. 

    What You Need To Know

    • A new, 15-member Cleveland city council has officially been sworn into office after redistricting resulted in the loss of two seats this election cycle

    • Of those sworn in Tuesday night, 12 are returning members and three are newcomers: Ward 7’s Austin Davis, Ward 11’s Nikki Hudson, and Ward 12’s Tanmay Shah

    • Council President Blaine Griffin was chosen by his colleagues to stay in that role over the next four years

    “My commitment to you, and I hope that we would make it to each other as council colleagues, is to not bring a problem without a solution,” Council President Blaine Griffin said after being chosen by his colleagues to keep his leadership role through this term. 

    The body is down to 15 members from 17 in the last term because of population loss in the city over the last decade. 

    “It is the best of times in some parts of Cleveland with thriving neighborhoods, amenities, world class arts, education and entertainment venues, but it’s the worst of times in other locations,” Griffin said, comparing Cleveland’s neighborhoods to Charles Dickens’ A Tale of Two Cities. “There are people under a tremendous amount of pressure. We have an awesome responsibility to relieve the burden and not add to it.”

    Of those sworn in Tuesday night, 12 are returning members and three are newcomers: Ward 7’s Austin Davis, Ward 11’s Nikki Hudson and Ward 12’s Tanmay Shah.

    Shah, a democratic socialist, said he’s looking forward to working with council to tackle challenges coming from outside city hall.

    “Pretty much everyone here is working towards improving the lives of Cleveland, and that’s not something that the ultra wealthy care about,” Shah said. “And, we know right now that they’re funneling so much money into the elections so far at the national stage at in Columbus. So, we have our work cut out, but if we can get together on the same page here, I absolutely believe we can overcome those challenges.”

    Mayor Justin Bibb also marked the official start of his second term with a separate, private swearing in ceremony.

    In a post on X, he said, “A second term is not a victory lap — it is a mandate. I am proud to have the opportunity to serve the city I love. The work continues.”

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    Nora McKeown

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  • Five years after Jan. 6, questions remain

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    OHIO — Tuesday marks five years since the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, a day that left a lasting mark on American democracy.

    As the nation reflects on what happened and where things stand now, questions remain about accountability, security and the impact on our political landscape.

    On Jan. 6, 2021, a mob stormed the U.S. capitol as lawmakers met to certify the presidential election results. What unfolded shocked the nation and world, affecting a cornerstone of American democracy and raising urgent questions about security.

    Around 80 of the rioters were from Ohio, and President Trump either pardoned them or asked for their charges to be dismissed. One of those Ohioans who stormed the capitol five years ago was Caleb Jones. He was arrested in March of 2021 and said he’s reflected and learned a lot the last five years.

    “I learned never plead guilty when you’re not guilty, that was a big one,” said Jones, who was pardoned. “Also, make sure to get a legal defense that’s actually on your side, that’s another big one. I did whatever people said I should do and go with the recommended guy or whatever, but I don’t think it was in my best interest, but now it doesn’t really matter because a lot of people who didn’t commit any violent acts and were just kind of there, like myself, have been pardoned.” 

    In the days that followed Jan. 6, federal investigators launched one of the largest criminal investigations in U.S. history. Hundreds have since been charged, and new security measures were put in place to protect the capitol and those who serve inside it. 

    And now, as the nation reflects on the events of Jan. 6, many are also looking ahead and asking how to prevent something like this from happening again and what it will take to restore trust in the democratic process.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Storage solutions for holiday decorations

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    CLEVELAND — The holidays have come and gone, and you may have already forgotten the stress of unpacking, organizing and putting up all those decorations.

    There are several ways to save time packing those decorations away for next year.

    What You Need To Know

    • Maria Arman is a busy wife and mom to 3 boys under the age of 7

    • Kris Renee is a pro-organizer who shares tips and tricks with her tens of thousands of social media followers

    • A survey by YouGov 91% of those surveyed said it’s at least somewhat important to them that their home is organized

    Maria Arman is a busy mom and wife. However, she said every year she finds the time to decorate her house for Christmas.  

    “I do it for my kids,” she said. “I also do it for other people to come over and enjoy and sit. But more importantly, I do it for my husband.”

    When it’s time to take everything down and pack it away, it’s just as much work.

    “I have three boys under the age of 7,” said Arman. “Every day is chaos. I have a dog, two cats, two snakes, two geckos, and they keep asking for more animals. So, I try to stay organized, but in reality, I don’t always have the time.”

    Arman said, with her lifestyle, it’s not always easy being organized. Kris Renee is a pro-organizer who shares tips and tricks with her tens of thousands of social media followers. She said Arman isn’t alone when it comes to trying to get organized, especially after the holidays.

    “Putting away your decorations at the holidays can be really chaotic, especially when you’re talking about bigger, bulkier items like your wreaths,” said Renee. “If you don’t have the original boxes, you can use household items to store them. Small changes can make a big difference when it comes to organization.”

    According to a survey by YouGov, 91% of those said it’s at least somewhat important to them that their home is organized. Compare that to the 54% who think their home is somewhat organized and the 46% who said they organize when things get out of hand.

    “Being organized was going to be essential to making our house run smoothly,” said Renee.

    Renee is a mom of 8 she said getting organized begins with being realistic with what you have, where it’s going and using stuff around your house to help with packing.

    “When you have busy households like Maria and I both do, we’re often hosting and so we have red solo cups, which are actually a great solution for keeping your breakable ornaments safe when you’re packaging them away for the season,” said Renee.

    When it comes to taking down decorations after the holidays, there is not right or wrong time. Renee said she starts taking things down right after the holiday is over while Arman puts a little bit away at a time.

    “Putting all of your decorations on a table or on the floor really helps you get an idea of what it is that you have, what it is that you want to keep and get rid of, as well as what size storage bins you will need to put these items in,” said Renee.

    Some other ways to organize holiday decorations after the holidays include:

    • Create a Plan: Make a list of each room that has decorations.
    • Declutter: Before putting away those decorations, declutter your storage space. Get rid of decorations or items that are broken, or you no longer need or use. Donate or discard those items.
    • Organize Decorations: Get labels and storage containers to put away holiday decorations in an organized way. Get bins, dividers, and labels to keep everything organized and easily accessible for the next year.
    • Sort and Store like items: Organize items by room, decoration type, color or whichever sorting method works for your items.
    • Use unused spaces: Use spaces like under your bed with specialty storage boxes for those tight spaces.

    As a working mom and wife, Arman said she loves decorating for all of the holidays and the smiles it puts on her family’s faces. She knows organizing can be difficult but whenever she does organize, big or small, she feels a sense of relief.

    “Every holiday, I try to stay as organized as possible for Christmas,” Arman said. “I’m trying to work on it more, but with the chaos coming in the new year, the more organized every little bit helps.”

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    Rose Todd

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  • A tense calm holds on Venezuela a day after Maduro was deposed by U.S.

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    CARACAS, Venezuela  — A tense calm held in Venezuela on Sunday, one day after President Nicolás Maduro was deposed and captured in an American military operation.

    What You Need To Know

    • Convenience stores, gas stations and other businesses were mostly closed after his capture

    • Families with houses damaged in blasts during the operation that captured Maduro and his wife were still cleaning up debris

    • After the seismic shift in Venezuela and promises by President Donald Trump that the United States would “run” Venezuela with the help of Maduro’s Vice President Delcy Rodríguez

    Venezuela’s capital Caracas was unusually quiet Sunday with few vehicles moving around. Convenience stores, gas stations and other businesses were mostly closed.

    A day before, lines wound through stores and outside gas stations as uncertain Venezuelans stocked up on goods in case turmoil broke out. Roads typically filled with runners and cyclists sat largely empty and Venezuela’s presidential palace was guarded by armed civilians and members of the military.

    Outside the capital, in La Guira state, families with houses damaged in blasts during the operation that captured Maduro and his wife were still cleaning up debris. Some buildings were left with walls gaping open.

    After the seismic shift in Venezuela and promises by President Donald Trump that the United States would “run” Venezuela with the help of Maduro’s Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, no one in the country seemed to know where things stood or what lay ahead.

    In a low-income neighborhood in eastern Caracas, construction worker Daniel Medalla sat on the steps outside a Catholic church and told a few parishioners that again there would be no morning Mass.

    Medalla theorized the streets remained mostly empty not because people are worried about another strike but because they are fearful of government repression if they dare celebrate, coming after a fierce government crackdown during last year’s fraught elections.

    “We were longing for it,” Medalla, 66, said of Maduro’s exit.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Protesters rally against ICE, actions in Venezuela

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Activists gathered in Columbus on Saturday to protest recent immigration enforcement actions in Ohio and U.S. foreign policy decisions involving Venezuela, arguing that both contribute to fear and instability in immigrant communities. 

    What You Need To Know

    • According to the Ohio Immigrant Alliance, Operation Buckeye has led to more than 200 arrests in Ohio, approximately 80% Latino and roughly 93% men

    • Protesters said recent ICE activity and U.S. foreign policy decisions are increasing fear in local immigrant communities

    • Organizers are encouraging residents to report ICE activity to immigrant support networks rather than intervene directly

    The protest, organized by the Party of Socialism and Liberation, followed a recent enforcement effort by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement known as Operation Buckeye. The Ohio Immigrant Alliance reported that more than 200 people were arrested during the operation. Approximately 80% were Latino, and roughly 93% were men.

    “What we’re seeing right now is a war on immigrants here at home, and a war on Latin America abroad,” said Shenby G, a staff member with the Columbus Liberation Center. “And we understand the root cause of migration across Latin America has been U.S. imperialism and the looting of countries.”

    Some families said they are avoiding public places out of concern that any interaction could lead to separation of their loved ones.

    “Any country has to take care of the borders to a certain extent,” said Rick Wilhelm, a member of the Veterans For Peace. “But the way this is done is just inhuman. I mean, separating little kids from their parents.”

    Organizers said the effects of immigration enforcement, combined with foreign policy decisions, are fueling fear, but many are ready to stand up.

    “It’s basically the standard playbook of make people afraid. Keep them nervous, keep them unwilling or unconfident, not wanting to go out,” said Carter Mason, a protester at the event.

    Organizers said U.S. actions in Venezuela add another layer to the crisis facing immigrant communities in the United States.

    “We know that the Venezuelan people will continue to resist… just as immigrants here at home will resist the terror that ICE has launched on us and our communities,” said Shenby G.

    ICE has said it is focused on arresting individuals with serious criminal records, referring to them as “the worst of the worst.”

    Organizers said the protest is part of ongoing efforts to connect local immigration concerns with global conflicts they believe are affecting communities in Central Ohio.

    They said community members should only document and report ICE activity — including times, dates and locations — to immigrant support organizations rather than intervene directly.

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    Saima Khan

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  • Doctors walk to promote better health in their communities

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    COLUMBUS — Doctors are stepping out of the office and into the community to promote better health.

    What You Need To Know

    • Walking is one of the simplest and effective forms of exercise 

    • Walk with a Doc is a group that meets up at a park and listens to a medical lesson from a doctor then walks together
    • The group started in Columbus but has spread all over the nation 

    Instead of a waiting room, the doctor visit starts on a walking path walk with a doctor to encourage people of all ages to get moving while learning about their health.

    Walking is one of the simplest things that people can do to improve their overall health, and this gives them the chance to connect outside of the clinic.

    The free program is open to the public and focuses on physical activity, conversation and prevention, helping participants feel comfortable asking questions along the way.

    “It’s called Walk with a Doc. It’s something that was started by a physician at St. Ann’s, Dr. David Sab here several years ago and he started a thing, he’s a cardiologist, he had some patients he met out at a park here, I believe it was High Banks, and the whole thing was just to encourage exercise in a fun way,” said Philip Berger, a medical doctor at St Ann’s. “So he would meet his patients out here and give a short talk about a medical topic and then after that go for a walk and be able to say ‘Hey folks, you are doing what I’ve asked you to do right now.’”

    He said Walk with a Doc has spread to 30 countries. The goal is to build healthier habits and stronger relationships one walk at a time.

    Walk with a Doc is held every Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m. at High Banks Metropark throughout the year, with no registration is required.

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    Cassidy Wilson

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  • Myles Garrett sets NFL single-season sack record with 23rd sack

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    CINCINNATI — Cleveland Browns All-Pro pass rusher Myles Garrett set the NFL’s single-season sack record with 5:09 remaining during the fourth quarter of Sunday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

    What You Need To Know

    • Garrett sacked Joe Burrow for a 6-yard loss on first-and-10 at the Browns 45-yard line

    • Burrow was in the shotgun formation when he saw Garrett coming and went down

    • Garrett suprassed Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt for the records

    Garrett sacked Joe Burrow for a 6-yard loss on first-and-10 at the Browns 45-yard line. Burrow was in the shotgun formation when he saw Garrett coming and went down.

    Garrett came into the game needing one sack to surpass the mark of 22 1/2 shared by Pro Football Hall of Famer Michael Strahan (in 2001 with the New York Giants) and Pittsburgh’s T.J. Watt in 2021.

    The sack in some ways was similar to Strahan’s record-breaking sack of Green Bay’s Brett Favre. Both players didn’t put up much of a challenge when they saw an oncoming pass rusher.

    Garrett’s teammates celebrated his 23rd sack even though Cincinnati tried to go no-huddle on the next play.

    Garrett has sacked 51 players over his nine-year NFL career. Burrow is at the top of the list at 12 in 10 meetings.

    The NFL did not start counting sacks as an official statistic until 1982. Mark Gastineau of the New York Jets had 22 in 1984 until Strahan surpassed that late in the fourth quarter of the New York Giants’ 2001 season finale against Green Bay. Favre went down to the ground as Strahan was approaching to set the mark. Watt tied the record during the final game in 2021 at Baltimore by taking down Ravens QB Tyler Huntley.

    Garrett has recorded at least half a sack in 11 of 12 games including Sunday. That includes a team-record five against the New England Patriots on Oct. 26, four against the Baltimore Ravens on Nov. 14 and three one week later at Las Vegas.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • How to stick with your New Year’s goals

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — As the calendar flips to a new year, millions of people are setting fresh goals from getting healthier to saving more money, but studies show most resolutions don’t make it past the first few weeks.

    What You Need To Know

    • Many people are setting New Year’s goals 

    • Most people don’t stick to their goals after the first few weeks

    • Experts reccommend using the SMART goals anaology 

    So how do you actually stick with them this time around?

    Experts said it’s more about a lifestyle change, like changing your habits.

    Lauren Esposito is a manager at Ohio Health in the neuroscience wellness center and said the most common New Year’s goals they see are around health and fitness.

    “I think sticking to them, really, you have to focus on that consistency is going to beat intensity every single time,” Esposito said. “It’s really important that you’re realistic and you’re thinking about these small, incremental habits or behavior changes versus, ‘I didn’t workout at all last year and I’m going to workout starting five days a week on Jan. 1.’ You don’t overhaul your life on Jan. 1.”

    Her advice for people setting new goals is using the SMART goals analogy. That means the goals you set are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time bound.

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    Cassidy Wilson

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  • Weekend Pass: Events around the state Jan. 3-4

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    There’s always plenty to do in Ohio over the weekend, and Spectrum News 1 gathered some highlights around each major metropolitan area across the state.

    Here’s some of this weekend’s events:

    Cleveland

    Cleveland Home Show

    • When and where: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Jan. 3 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 4 at the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland, located at  300 Lakeside Ave.
    • Cost: Free admission with online registration or $10 at the door
    • Info: This is the place to go for everything home improvement. Whether it’s discounts, advice from experts and more, there’s plenty to see

    50 First Jokes

    • When and where: 7 p.m. Jan. 4 at Hilarities 4th Street Theatre, located at 2035 E 4th St. in Cleveland
    • Cost: $12
    • Info: Local comedians will gather at this event to tell their first jokes of the new year

    Columbus

    Healthy New Albany Farmers Market

    • When and where: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Jan. 3 at the Philip Heit Center for Healthy New Albany, located at 150 W. Main St.
    • Info: This event occurs on the first Saturday of the month during the fall and winter and includes an assortment of local vendors

    Holiday Blooms at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

    • When and where: This exhibition lasts until Jan. 4, so this is your last weekend to check it out at the conservatory and botanical gardens, located at 1777 E. Broad Street Columbus
    • Cost: Included with admission
    • Info: The theme of this exhibition is Hues of the Holidays. The website calls it an “enchanting botanical experience is where color takes center stage.”

    Cincinnati

    Disney & Pixar’s “Toy Story” in concert

    • When and where: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 3 and 2 p.m. Jan. 4 at the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra music hall, located at 1241 Elm St. in Cincinnati
    • Cost: Prices vary, see website for details
    • Info: This concert, conducted by Damon Gupton, will be a live performance that accompanies the playing of the film

    Festival of Ferns

    • When and where: This seasonal event lasts through Jan. 4 Cincinnati Parks’ Krohn Conservatory, located at 1501 Eden Park Drive
    • Cost: $10 for adults, $7 for kids age 5-17, free for kids 5 and younger
    • Info: This event includes a “botanical model of Cincinnati,” trains, landmarks and more. This is your last weekend to check out the event as it ends Jan. 4

    Dayton

    Pyramid Hill Lights

    • When and where: 6 to 10 p.m. Jan. 3 and 6 to 9 p.m. Jan. 4
    • Cost: $25 for a carload of non-members, $15 for a carload of members
    • Info: There’s plenty of holiday lights for the family to drive through

    Deck the Diamond

    • When and where: Runs from 6 to 9 p.m. on select nights (including this Friday and Saturday) until Jan. 3 at Day Air Ballpark, located at 220 N Patterson Blvd. in Dayton
    • Cost: $14 for Friday through Sunday tickets, free for kids 2 and younger
    • Info: This event features light displays and shows, decorations and more “to create unforgettable memories for you and your loved ones!”

    Toledo

    Archery and Fireside S’mores

    • When and where: 1 to 2:30 p.m. Jan. 4 at t Pearson Metropark, Sledding Hill, located at 761 S Lallendorf Road
    • Cost: $10
    • Info: If you’ve been looking for an opportunity to practice your archery and enjoy some s’mores at the same time, this event is surely for you

    Toledo Paint and Sip Party – Snow Globe

    • When and where: 6 to 9 p.m. Jan. 3 at Wine & Canvas Toledo Studio, located at 5248 Monroe St. in Toledo
    • Cost: $40
    • Info: At this event, you’ll have the chance to have some drinks and create your own canvas, with guidance from a local artist

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • From Ebola to world records, here’s a look at historic anniversaries in 2026

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    It’s been a busy century.

    Within the past 100 years, the world has seen World War II, the advent of space travel, the fall and rise of nations and plenty more.

    What You Need To Know

    • A lot has happened over the last 100 years

    • A number of historic events will be seeing anniversaries this year

    • Here’s a look at some, according to History.com

    Here’s a look at some major historic events recognizing 100, 50 or 10-year milestones this year, according to history.com.

    • “Amos ‘n’ Andy” made their debut on a Chicago radio station as “Sam ‘n’ Henry” on Jan. 12, 1926
    • TV is demonstrated publicly for the first time by John Logie Baird on Jan. 26, 1926
    • The first liquid-fueled rocket is launched out of Auburn, Massachusetts, on March 16, 1926
    • The Ford Motor Company adopts the five-day, 40-hour work week on May 1, 1926
    • Marilyn Monroe was born on June 1, 1926, in Los Angeles 
    • Fidel Castro is born in Cuba on Aug. 13.
    • Gertrude Ederle swims across the English Channel on Aug. 6, 1926, the first woman to do so
    • Babe Ruth earns a world record with three home runs against the St. Louis Cardinals on Oct. 6
    • The magician Harry Houdini died on Oct. 31 in Detroit
    • Cambodia was renamed to Kampuchea by the Khmer Rouge leader Pol Pot on Jan. 5, 1976
    • The first Concorde planes with commercial passengers take off from airports in England and France on Jan. 21, 1976
    • Paul Robeson—a singer, athlete and actor—died on Jan. 23, 1976. Sal Mineo, another actor, was killed in a stabbing in California.
    • Frank DeLuca and Patricia Columbo were arrested on May 15, 1976, for the murder of her parents and brother in Illinois
    • The National Basketball Association merges with the American Basketball Association on June 17, 1976
    • The first recorded Ebola virus epidemic occurs in Sudan on June 27, 1976
    • The United States Naval Academy admitted its first women on July 6, 1976, and the first female cadets were enrolled at West Point one day later
    • Romanian Nadia Comăneci is first Olympic gymnast to earn a perfect 10 on July 18, 1976
    • The Viking 1 probe made a successful landing on Mars on July 20, 1976
    • An earthquake destroys the Chinese city of Tangshan on July 28, 1976, killing an estimated 242,000 people
    • Renée Richards,a transgender athlete, was barred from competing as a woman in the U.S. Open on Aug. 27, 1976
    • Mao Zedong died on Sept. 9, 1976
    • The movie “Rocky” released in theaters on Nov. 21, 1976
    • El Chapo is apprehended by authorities in Mexico on Jan. 8, 2016
    • The musician Prince died on April 21, 2016
    • A gunman opens fire inside the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, killing 49 people and injuring dozens of others
    • A man drove a truck through a street filled with people celebrating Bastille Day in Nice, France, killing 86 people and injuring hundreds of others on July 14, 2016
    • Hillary Clinton accepts the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination. She was the first woman to lead a major party in the United States
    • Colin Kaepernick, quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, chose not to stand for the national anthem during a game on Aug. 26, 2016, setting off a firestorm of controversy around the decision
    • Mother Teresa was named Saint Teresa of Calcutta on Sept. 4, 2016
    • The National Museum of African American History and Culture opened on Sept. 24, 2016
    • The Paris Agreement went into effect on Nov. 4, 2016, with the hope to curb carbon emissions and mitigate global warming
    • The nation of Russia is accused of cheating in the Olympics by the World Anti-Doping Agency on Dec. 9, 2016

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Political changes, new laws coming in 2026 to Ohio

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    OHIO — The new year is upon us, and with it come some major political changes for the Buckeye State. 

    Several new laws will take effect in 2026, including new laws targeting drug overdoses in schools, “Keith’s Law” and the finalization of cellphone policies for schools. 

    For more information on the latest state laws, click here.

    House Bill 57: Jan. 19, 2026

    The new law allows a city, local, exempted village or joint vocational school district to obtain and maintain a supply of an overdose reversal drug for an emergency. The district’s board of education will be required to adopt and implement a policy regarding the supply’s maintenance and drug’s use at each school operated by the district. 

    Policies must include: 

    • A requirement that each school conform to the requirements of division (C)(1) of section 3715.50 of the Revised Code
    • The amount of the drug’s supply to be maintained at each school
    • A requirement that each school’s supply be stored in a secure location that is easily accessible to school employees or contractors
    • A description of any training regarding the supply’s maintenance and drug’s use that school employees or contractors may be required to complete

    Under the law, a board of education can accept donations of money from any person or entity to purchase overdose reversal drugs, with the money used only for that purpose. The board must track the spending of the donated funds. 

    District superintendents must also file a report as soon as is practical following the use of an overdose reversal drug. The use must be reported to the board of education and the parent or guardian of the student who received the reversal drug. An annual report must also be made of the district’s use of overdose reversal drugs in emergencies to the Department of Education and Workforce.

    House Bill 144: Jan. 19, 2026

    “Keith’s Law” was passed in October, and aims to enhance first responders’ ability to assist individuals with special needs during emergencies.

    Through the law, a voluntary statewide database is established for those with special needs to share relevant and vital information with first responders. Officials said the information will be shared with each county’s 911 system. The systems will be required to provide the appropriate information to first responders when dispatched to ensure first responders are prepared.

    The database will be administered by Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities in partnership with the Ohio Department of Public Safety

    Minimum wage increase: Jan. 1, 2026

    Minimum wage will increase on New Year’s Day from $10.70 per hour for non-tipped employees and $5.35 per hour for tipped employees to $11 per hour for non-tipped employees and $5.50 for tipped employees. 

    The increase is 30 cents for non-tipped workers and 25 cents for tipped workers.

    The minimum wage will apply to employees of businesses with annual gross receipts totaling more than  $405,000 per year.

    Minimum wage increases each year because of a constitutional amendment passed in Nov. 2006 stating that Ohio’s minimum wage increases Jan. 1 each year by a rate of inflation. Ohio’s minimum wage is tied to the Consumer Price Index for urban wage earners and clerical workers over the 12-month period prior to September.

    At smaller companies with annual gross receipts of $394,000 or less per year after Jan. 1, and for 14- and 15-year-olds, the state’s minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. The state wage is tied to the federal minimum wage, which requires an act of Congress and the president’s signature to change.

    School Cellphone policies: Jan. 1, 2026

    While DeWine signed the bill requiring every Ohio school district to establish an official policy regarding cell phone use during school hours, aiming to minimize student use in K-12 schools, it still takes effect next year.

    The policies must emphasize that student cellphone use be limited during the school day, reduce distractions caused by cellphones in class settings and if a school board determines it appropriate, or if included in a student’s individual education program, allow for students to use cellphones or other electronic communication devices for student learning, to monitor a health concern or to address a health concern.

    While most schools have adopted policies ahead of the 2025-2026 school year, by state law a policy prohibiting cellphone use by students during the instructional day must be set by Jan. 1, 2026.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Snow showers to affect New Year’s plans

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    OHIO — As we wrap up 2025 and head into 2026, winter weather will impact New Year’s holiday plans around Ohio.

    What You Need To Know

    • Snow chances will be widespread across Ohio this evening

    • Along and ahead of another cold front, snow showers could be heavy at times, briefly reducing visibility

    • An Arctic cold front is responsible for another push of cold air moving in, and we’ll see even colder air returning Thursday

    Snow chances will be widespread across Ohio this evening, making for a messy New Year’s Eve forecast. 

    Along and ahead of another cold front, snow showers could be heavy at times, briefly reducing visibility and leading to messy roads. 

    We’ll see widespread snow north of I-70 late this afternoon into the evening, then progressing south as we move into your late night forecast. 

    Snow totals outside the Snowbelt won’t be a lot, but the timing will be important, with 1″ or so  quickly falling with some heavier bursts of snow. 

    An Arctic cold front is responsible for another push of cold air moving in, and we’ll see even colder air returning Thursday, with highs in the teens and 20s.

     

    Don’t forget, the Spectrum News App is a great resource to track Ohio’s wintry weather and stay up to date on the latest breaking news and information.

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    Meteorologist Ashley Batey

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  • Pro Football Hall of Fame unveils Class of 2026 finalists

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    OHIO — Fifteen National Football League standouts have taken one step closer to enshrinement into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. 

    The hall announced the finalists for the Modern-Era Players Category on Tuesday morning for the Class of 2026. Those selected will be enshrined in Canton, Ohio, in August.

    What You Need To Know

    • The hall announced the finalists for the Modern-Era Players Category on Tuesday morning

    • Four players advanced automatically to this stage because of reaching the Final 7 for election with the Class of 2025

    • The Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026 will be announced at “NFL Honors” in San Francisco in February and enshrined in August in Canton

    Four players advanced automatically to this stage because of reaching the final seven for election with the Class of 2025: Willie Anderson, Torry Holt, Luke Kuechly and Adam Vinatieri. They are joined by six other finalists from a year ago, four first-year eligible candidates and one player in his sixth year of eligibility who is a finalist for the first time.

    The Hall of Fame’s Selection Committee meets prior to Super Bowl LX, and the Class of 2026 will be revealed Feb. 5 during the “NFL Honors” show on NBC, NFL Network, Peacock and NFL+.

    Modern-Era Players are: 

    • Willie Anderson, Tackle – 1996-2007 Cincinnati Bengals, 2008 Baltimore Ravens
    • Drew Brees, Quarterback – 2001-05 San Diego Chargers, 2006-2020 New Orleans Saints
    • Jahri Evans, Guard – 2006-2016 New Orleans Saints, 2017 Green Bay Packers
    • Larry Fitzgerald, Wide Receiver – 2004-2020 Arizona Cardinals
    • Frank Gore, Running Back – 2005-2014 San Francisco 49ers, 2015-17 Indianapolis Colts, 2018 Miami Dolphins, 2019 Buffalo Bills, 2020 New York Jets
    • Torry Holt, Wide Receiver – 1999-2008 St. Louis Rams, 2009 Jacksonville Jaguars 
    • Luke Kuechly, Linebacker – 2012-19 Carolina Panthers
    • Eli Manning, Quarterback – 2004-2019 New York Giants
    • Terrell Suggs, Outside Linebacker/Defensive End – 2003-2018 Baltimore Ravens, 2019 Arizona Cardinals, 2019 Kansas City Chiefs
    • Adam Vinatieri, Kicker – 1996-2005 New England Patriots, 2006-2019 Indianapolis Colts
    • Reggie Wayne, Wide Receiver – 2001-2014 Indianapolis Colts
    • Kevin Williams, Defensive Tackle – 2003-2013 Minnesota Vikings, 2014 Seattle Seahawks, 2015 New Orleans Saints
    • Jason Witten, Tight End – 2003-2017, 2019 Dallas Cowboys, 2020 Las Vegas Raiders
    • Darren Woodson, Safety – 1992-2003 Dallas Cowboys
    • Marshal Yanda, Guard/Tackle – 2007-2019 Baltimore Ravens

    Up to five Modern-Era players can be chosen by the Selection Committee, with each receiving a minimum vote of 80% for election.

    Five others — Seniors category finalists Ken Anderson, Roger Craig and L.C. Greenwood; along with coach finalist Bill Belichick and contributor finalist Robert Kraft — are also eligible for the Class of 2026, with voting on these candidates conducted separately. A minimum of one person and a maximum of three from the combined categories may be elected according to the current bylaws.

    There is no set number for any class of enshrinees, but the current selection process bylaws stipulate that between four and eight new members shall be chosen.

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • ODNR offers First Day Hikes as part of winter hike series to break in new year

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    OHIO — It’s common to have plans on New Year’s Eve, but there’s not usually many parties or get-togethers set for New Year’s Day.

    If you’re looking for something to do on your day off, it may be worth considering a hike outside to usher in 2026. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources offers several First Day Hikes at locations around the state.

     

    Here’s a look at the planned events (click the links for more information):

    First Day Hike – Maumee Bay

    3 to 4:15 p.m. at the Boardwalk Trail in Oregon, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Deer Creek

    3 to 4 p.m. at Deer Creek State Park Nature Center in Mt Sterling, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Punderson

    2 to 3:30 p.m. at Punderson State Park Manor House in Newbury Township, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Indian Lake

    1 to 1:45 p.m. at Pew Island trail head in Huntsville, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Salt Fork

    1 to 2:30. P.m. at the Kennedy Stonehouse Nature Trail parking lot in Lore City, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Shawnee

    1 to 3 p.m. at the Shawnee State Park Lodge in West Portsmouth, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Jesse Owens

    1 to 3 p.m. at the shelter house at Sand Hollow Campground in McConnelsville, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Caesar Creek

    1 to 3 p.m. at the Caesar Creek Nature Center in Waynesville, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Pymatuning

    11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Cabin Beach in Andover, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Hueston Woods

    11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Hueston Woods Nature Center, located in College Corner, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Buck Creek

    11 a.m. to 1 p.m. near the Buck Creek Marina restrooms in Springfield, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Wingfoot Lake

    11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Wingfoot Park Office in Mogadore, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Mosquito Lake

    10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Eastlake Metropark Sled Hill parking lot in Cortland, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Marblehead Lighthouse

    9 to 10 a.m. at the lighthouse in Lakeside Marblehead, Ohio

    First Day Hike – Lake Hope

    9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Hope Furnace in New Plymouth, Ohio

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    Cody Thompson

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  • Extreme wind to blow through Ohio

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    OHIO — As a warm front lifts north today, temperatures surge into the 60s and even near 70 for much of the state.

    As a warm front lifts north today, temperatures surge into the 60s and even near 70 for much of the state. Some records may fall today in southern Ohio. 

    While we’re tracking some rain this morning, we’ll be cloudy but mostly dry for the afternoon, allowing an opportunity to enjoy some milder temperatures.

    However, a strong cold front associated with the same area of low pressure moves in tonight, bringing a drastically colder air mass back to Ohio.

    Along the front, showers and even a few strong storms are possible, starting in western Ohio around 9-10 p.m., central Ohio around midnight, then exiting before sunrise. 

    Temperatures drop by nearly 20 degrees within an hour or two, and we’ll remain cold and windy through the day Monday.

     

    Winds along and behind the front could gust as high as 50-60 mph, with the strongest winds likely near Lake Erie. 

    Much of the state will be under a Wind Advisory if not a High Wind Warning tonight into tomorrow.

    Cold air sticks around through the New Year. 

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    Spectrum News Weather Staff

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  • Summit County prosecutor discusses Arrive Alive program

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    OHIO — It’s that time of year when nearly every weekend is filled with parties, many of which can include alcohol.

    Around this time last year, three people were killed in crashes from New Year’s Eve to New Year’s Day.

    One of the three deaths was listed as OVI-related (operating a vehicle under the influence) by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Also, over those two days, troopers made 77 impaired driving arrests.


    Spectrum News 1 spoke with Summit County Prosecutor Elliot Kolkovich about the Arrive Alive program.

    From 4 p.m. on Dec. 31 until 12 p.m. Jan. 2, those in Summit County can use the code SUMMITNYE26 to get a free ride home via the rideshare app Lyft. There’s a limit of 600 codes, and they cover a trip up to $20.

    You can watch the full interview above.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Akron man deported after living in U.S. for 44 years

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    CLEVELAND — Brittani Sisouphanh is spending her first holiday season without her father Sone Rassavong who was recently deported by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to his home country Laos.

    What You Need To Know

    • Brittani Sisouphanh is the daughter of Laotian immigrant Sone Rassavong, who she said was wrongfully arrested and deported by ICE earlier this year

    • The United States is home to an estimated 245,000 Laotian Americans

    • U.S. President Donald Trump is upping restrictions on nationals from more than a dozen countries he’s classified as “high risk,” including Laos

    Sone Rassavong first moved to the United States in 1981 as a refugee and lost permanent resident status after being accused of violating a protection order, Sisouphanh said. He was living in Texas at the time, she said, and lacked access to reliable transportation to check in for parole.

    “He didn’t understand what really comes with probation. So he had missed a day to go check in with his parole officer, and when he missed that appointment, they put a warrant out for his arrest,” Sisouphanh said. “He did not know that you check in once a month, and he just — they put him in jail, for missing that.”

    Sisouphanh said her father was detained by ICE officers that same year after serving several months in jail. 

    Still, she said, her father never received full due process.

    “Under ICE custody, they told my dad, again, no legal representation. They told my dad that if he signs this paper, he can go home. So he signed the paper,” Sisouphanh said. “And my dad has broken English. He doesn’t understand very well, but he didn’t know signing the paper, he was signing his status to be changed from permanent resident to deportation.”

    After signing the deportation order, Sisouphanh said, her father moved back to Ohio and had been living in Akron under a work visa.

    He checked in with Homeland Security and applied to renew his work authorization card each year, Sisouphanh said.

    “We went there just going to check in like normal, not knowing that my dad wasn’t going to come back out with us. I didn’t give any time for him to say bye to family or anything like that. Whatever he had on is what he had to go with,” she said.

    Rassavong is one of tens of thousands of Laotian Americans who became at risk of deportation after U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing full restrictions and an entry ban on all immigrants from Laos and Sierra Leone.

    The White House wrote online last week that the limitations imposed under the proclamation are part of Trump’s promise “to restore travel restrictions on dangerous countries” and secure the nation’s borders.

    Sisouphanh said she and other family members have had limited contact with Rassavong since October.

    “It was so hard to be in communication with him. I had to call lots of places, talk to lots of people. I was able to find him on an app, and we were able to communicate that way. But, he did go to Laos and he did share some experience. Getting there was very traumatizing, inhumane,” she said.

    Rassavong is now being detained in Laos, being transferred to the country from a U.S. detention center last week, Sisouphanh said.

    “It’s going to be a culture shock, for sure,” she said. “He left Laos when he was 15, and he stayed in a camp in Thailand till he was 17, and then came to America when he was 17.”

    The impact of Rassavong’s deportation is being felt by many others in the family, Sisouphanh said. He was the head of their family as the father of seven children and grandfather of 13 grandchildren.

    “It changed my way of living because I was living with him the day to day life. And when the day he went, I had work … I just didn’t know how to deal with it,” said Logan Rossavong, Sone Rassavong’s youngest child.

    Still, Rossaving’s family said they’re holding on to hope.

    “When we were on FaceTime, he lost weight …  but right now he’s doing good,” Logan Rossavong said. “He’s trying to keep it, you know, positive, trying to make the best of it.”

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    Tanya Velazquez

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  • Here are some of Ohio’s top weather events of 2025

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    OHIO — In 2024, Ohio broke its record for most tornadoes in a year, making it the standout weather story.

    While Ohio didn’t have anything quite that big this year, there were still major weather events that affected communities, brought wonder across the skies and turned the Buckeye State into a winter wonderland. 

    January-February

    Starting the year off strong, a snowstorm affected all of Ohio. In early to mid-January, several counties had to go under Level 3 Snow Emergencies because the roads were too hazardous for travel. Many areas received accumulation, with some reaching up to almost 10 inches, especially in southwest Ohio. 

    In February, the far northeast Ohio region got walloped with snow. 

    March

    March 30 was a night parts of central and southwestern Ohio saw multiple tornadoes. 

    Seven tornadoes were confirmed that evening. Five of them were in Ohio and the other two were in Indiana. All tornadoes were also either an EF-0 or an EF-1. 

    Two barns were destroyed — on ein Fayette County and another in Warren Countnty. Additionally, multiple trees were damaged. 

    April

    Spring came roaring in, especially for Cincinnati. 

    The city witnessed historic flooding. The Ohio River crested at 60.79 feet on April 7, more than double its normal height and the highest level in over 28 years. 

    Hamilton County commissioners had to issue an emergency declaration to help mobilize recovery resources. 

    The flooding damaged multiple buildings, affected riverfront parks and closed down several roadways. 

    November

    For two years in a row, the Northern Lights danced across Ohio skies. 

    A burst of strong solar flares helped the Northern Lights be more visible in the U.S. more than ever. Those solar flares are created bursts of energy called coronal mass ejections, and when that energy hits the Earth, it can cause the aurora borealis. 

    December

    Ohio ended the year just as it started: with snow. 

    Just before winter began, a snowstorm blew through the state on the weekend of Dec. 13, dropping large amounts of snow in several cities. 

    With the snow also came Arctic cold. In some areas, wind chills dipped down into the negative double-digits. 

    [ad_2] Lydia Taylor
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