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Tag: Ohio ROH Top Stories

  • José Ramírez will get final payment from Guardians in 2051

    CLEVELAND — José Ramírez will receive his final payment in 2051 under the third baseman’s $175 million, seven-year contract with the Cleveland Guardians.

    What You Need To Know

    • He gets a full no-trade provision and a hotel suite on road trips

    • Ramírez’s deferred money from each season will be payable in 10 equal installments each Dec. 15 starting in the 10th year after it was earned

    • The 33-year-old native of the Dominican Republic has played his entire 13-year big league career in Cleveland

    His deal, announced Friday, includes annual salaries of $25 million, of which $10 million annually will be deferred.

    Ramírez’s deferred money from each season will be payable in 10 equal installments each Dec. 15 starting in the 10th year after it was earned. His 2026 money will be paid from 2036-45 and his 2032 money from 2042-51.

    He gets a full no-trade provision and a hotel suite on road trips.

    Ramírez earned $72 million from 2022-25 under a $141 million, seven-year deal that had $69 million remaining: $21 million this year, $23 million in 2027 and $25 million in 2028.

    The 33-year-old native of the Dominican Republic has played his entire 13-year big league career in Cleveland.

    A seven-time All-Star, Ramírez had a career-high 44 stolen bases last season and became the fourth player with multiple seasons of at least 30 home runs and 40 steals. He had a .283 batting average.

    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Expert shares tips to keep our furry friends safe

    CINCINNATI — Freezing temperatures can quickly become deadly for pets.

    What You Need To Know

    • Severe temperatures can harm everyone in a household, including your pet

    • Queen City Veterinary Clinic shares tips to keep animals safe in the winter

    • One suggestion is to outfit your dogs with boots and sweaters

    Knowing how to help our four-legged friends can be the difference between life and death. 

     “One really big key is if it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them,” Owner of Queen City Veterinary Clinic, Larry Keller, said.

    Keller shared tips on ways you can keep your pet safe and signs you need to worry about.

    “The biggest things you worry about hypothermia, if they’re shaking, if they’re looking for a place to hide and get warm, that’s a sign you need to go ahead and bring them inside,” Keller explained.

    Similar to people, pets’ tolerance to the cold can vary based on their size, age and coat.

    The American Veterinary Medical Association said it’s important to look out for signs like whining, shivering, if your pet seems weak or starts seeking warm places to burrow.

    “If you have a dog that’s been inside the entire winter and you decide I want to take them for a walk, I wouldn’t stay more than five or ten minutes outside,” Keller warned.

    Another way to protect a pet during the winter is to outfit them with small boots, a sweater or a dog coat.

    If they’ve been outside, wipe them down. That’s not only to keep them dry but to remove any de-icing products they may collect.

    Keller said if travelling with a pet, make sure you don’t leave them in a car for a long period.

    “Leaving your dog in the car, people think about it during the summer because your car gets real hot, but think about it you drive to Kroger for 15 minutes, then you come outside and get in your car it’s cold, the same thing happens to your dog,” Keller continued.

    And lastly, be prepared by talking to a veterinarian about anything your pet may need during the cold weather.

    Travis Hicks

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  • Ohio politicians propose increase in penalty for disrupting religious services

    OHIO — Some Ohio lawmakers are looking to increase the punishment for interfering with religious services or lawful meetings, raising the penalty from a first-degree misdemeanor to a fifth-degree felony.

    What You Need To Know

    • Ohio politicians are looking to increase the penalty for disrupting religious services

    • Two Republican representatives introduced a bill that would make it a fifth-degree felony

    • This is in response to a recent anti-immigration enforcement protest that disrupted a service at a Minnesota church

    House Bill 662 was introduced into the Ohio House by Reps. Tex Fischer, R-Boardman, and Johnathan Newman, R-Troy, on Jan. 29.

    A press release from Fischer’s office states the bill is in response to a recent anti-immigration enforcement protest that disrupted a service at a Minnesota church. The situation gained national attention.

    One of the church’s pastors, David Easterwood, leads the local field office for Immigration and Customs Enforcement. One of the leaders of the protest and prominent local activist Nekima Levy Armstrong said she’s also an ordained reverend.

    Journalist Don Lemon was recently released from custody after he was arrested and hit with federal civil rights charges over his coverage of the protest.

    “While every American has the right to peacefully protest ICE or any other government entity, they do not have a right to storm into a place of worship and disrupt another American’s right to freely practice their religion,” Fischer said in the release. “We cannot allow our country to be a place where families fear they may face harassment or see their religious services disrupted by activists attempting to score political points while attending church on a Sunday morning. Our state should not tolerate this behavior and must stand strong in protecting the rights of Ohioans of all faiths to freely practice their religion.”

    The release states this bill will not restrict the ability of Ohioans to peacefully protest.

    “I will do everything possible to ensure Ohioans’ God-given First Amendment right to free exercise of religion is protected along with houses of worship and worshippers,” Newman said in the release. “I am glad to join Rep. Fischer sponsoring this important legislation.”

    You can see the full bill here:

    The Associated Press contributed to this report.

    Cody Thompson

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  • Updates: Snow, frigid cold impact Ohio

    BY

    Spectrum News Staff

    Ohio

    UPDATED 9:20 AM ET Jan. 26, 2026
    PUBLISHED 5:37 AM ET Jan. 25, 2026
    PUBLISHED 5:37 AM EST Jan. 25, 2026

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Check local emergency snow levels before hitting the road this weekend

    OHIO — We’re getting closer to the start of the impending winter storm and, while officials have urged Ohioans to stay home if at all possible, some people will need to brave the roads even in unsafe conditions.

    If you do so, you’ll want to be sure you have the most relevant details on conditions for your area. Make sure you’re checking in with your local sheriff’s office to determine what snow emergency level your county is under before hitting the roads.

    What You Need To Know

    • Local sheriff’s issue snow emergency levels during winter weather events

    • Be sure to check your local level before hitting the roads this weekend

    • This winter storm is expected to bring a lot of snow to the Buckeye State

    Here’s a look at how some counties in the state differentiate between the three levels.

    Cuyahoga County

    The City of Cleveland describes the snow emergency levels as follows:

    • Level one — “Use caution”
    • Level two — “Hazardous roads – necessary travel only”
    • Level three — “Emergency vehicles only – travel advisory strictly enforced”

    They recommend people working in the city know their workplace’s snow emergency policies.

    Hamilton County

    The County Sheriff describes their snow emergency levels as follows:

    • Level one — “Roadways are hazardous with blowing snow. Roads may also be icy. Motorists are urged to drive very cautiously. Unnecessary travel is discouraged.”
    • Level two — “Roadways are hazardous and may be very icy. Only drive if it is necessary to do so. Employees should contact their employer to see if they should report to work.”
    • Level three — “Extremely hazardous road conditions. All of certain County roads are closed. No one should be on the roadways unless absolutely necessary. Employees should contact their employer to see if they should report to work.”

    Montgomery County

    The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office describes their snow emergency levels as follows:

    • Level one — “Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads are also icy. Drive very cautiously.”
    • Level two — “Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roadways. Contact your employer to see if you should report to work.”
    • Level three — “All roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. No one should be out during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel. All employees should contact their employer to see if they should report to work. However, those traveling on the roadways may subject themselves to prosecution.”

    Lucas County

    The Lucas County Sheriff’s Office describes their snow emergency levels as follows:

    • Level one — “A Level I Snow Advisory is due to conditions caused by ice, blowing and drifting snow, which can make county roadways hazardous. Residents should drive cautiously. This advisory can be upgraded or discontinued.”
    • Level two — “In addition to elements detailed in a Level 1 Advisory. A Level II Snow Advisory includes ice, blowing and drifting snow causing low visibility on county roadways.  Only persons with a real and important need to be out on roads and streets should do so. This advisory can be upgraded, downgraded, or discontinued.”
    • Level three — “A Level III Emergency is for all roads and streets in Lucas County. This declaration does not apply to traffic on the Ohio Turnpike but does apply to all other roads and streets in Lucas County. Travel on these roadways is limited to emergency and essential personnel only. No one should be on these roadways during the duration of this Snow Emergency unless absolutely necessary. All employees should contact their employer to determine if they should report for work.  All non-emergency and nonessential personnel traveling the roadways during this Snow Emergency may be subject to arrest and prosecution under section 2917.13 of the Ohio Revised Code for ‘misconduct at an emergency.’ The Lucas County Sheriff’s Office is without authority to arbitrarily determine what occupations, job descriptions or duties constitute essential or nonessential employees.”

    Before traveling on the roads during this winter storm, be sure to check the emergency snow level issued by your county sheriff. You can find their contact information and website here.

    Cody Thompson

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  • Major winter storm moves into Ohio tonight

    OHIO — Arctic air has settled in across the Buckeye State but now our attention turns to a major winter storm that is approaching and will bring heavy snow to much of the state starting later today.

    What You Need To Know

    • Brutally cold temperatures are expected today through next week

    • Snow starts to fall in southern Ohio this evening, spreading north into the night

    • Heavy snow continues through early Monday morning

    This winter storm will bring heavy snow at times, which will make for some very dangerous travel conditions. Since the air is so cold, the snow that falls will be very light and fluffy, which will accumulate quickly.

    Timing of system

    Impacts from the storm will first be felt late this afternoon into the early evening when snow first starts to fall in southern Ohio. The latest models show snow will likely start between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. for areas south and southwest of a line from Dayton to Chillicothe. As the evening progress, snow will continue to spread northward with areas like Columbus, Zanesville, Wheeling and Lima seeing snow after 7 p.m. We’re looking at a late night timeframe for snow starting in northern Ohio into the very early morning hours Sunday.

    Snowfall rates could be heavy at times, with heavier snowfall expected by mid-morning Sunday.

    We’ll continue to see snow accumulate through the remainder of the day Sunday. Snow will begin to taper off overnight into Monday as the system moves out of the region. By Monday mid-morning, most of the state will see drier conditions, but snow will still be possible across the northeast.

    Even though most of the state will see drier conditions Monday, roads may still be snow covered leading to another day of treacherous travel.  

    Snowfall totals

    Most of the state will see more than six inches of snow. Heavier amounts are possible, with a foot of snow expected in some areas. A heavier band of snowfall totals is setting up over an area extending from Cincinnati through Chillicothe to near Athens. Central Ohio and Northeast Ohio could see anywhere from 8-12″ of snow, with localized heavier amounts possible. Lesser amounts of snow will fall in Northwest Ohio, with 4-8″ expected in areas like Toledo and Sandusky.

    Areas in Southeast Ohio where sleet or ice may be an issue could see lesser amounts.

    Frigid cold

    Once the snow is done, it’s expected to hang around for a while because temperatures will continue to be cold. One of the coldest mornings will be Tuesday, with wind chills in many areas falling to -20 degrees. 

    Check back for updates throughout the weekend as the winter storm affects Ohio and much of the country.

    Meteorologist April Loveland

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  • Illinois surgeon charged in Ohio couple’s killings due in court

    OHIO — An Illinois doctor indicted on murder charges in the December slayings of his ex-wife and her dentist husband in their Columbus home is due in an Ohio courtroom on Friday.

    What You Need To Know

    • An Ohio grand jury indicted McKee in the double homicide last week

    • McKee is accused of illegally entering the Tepes’ home with a firearm equipped with a silencer, shooting the Tepes

    • McKee is charged with two aggravated murder counts for each homicide, one for prior calculation and design and one for committing the crime, as well as facing the aggravated burglary count

    Michael David McKee, 39, is scheduled to be arraigned in Franklin County on four aggravated murder counts and one count of aggravated burglary while using a firearm suppressor in connection with the Dec. 30 shooting deaths of Monique Tepe, 39, and Dr. Spencer Tepe, 37.

    The mystery that first surrounded the case — which featured no forced entry, no weapon and no obvious signs of theft, additional violence or a motive — drew national attention. McKee, of Chicago, was arrested 11 days later near his workplace in Rockford, Illinois. He was returned to Ohio on Tuesday to face the charges against him.

    Who is Michael David McKee?

    McKee attended Catholic high school in Zanesville, a historic Ohio city about 55 miles (88.5 kilometers) east of the capital, according to the Diocese of Columbus. He enrolled at Ohio State University in September 2005 — the same semester that his future wife, then Monique Sabaturski, enrolled, university records show. Both graduated with bachelor’s degrees in June 2009. Sabaturski earned a master of education degree from Ohio State in 2011 and McKee earned his medical degree there in 2014.

    Sabaturski and McKee married in Columbus in August 2015 but were living apart by the time Monique filed to end in the marriage in May 2017, court records show. Their divorce was granted that June. McKee was living in Virginia at the time, court and address records show. He completed a two-year fellowship in vascular surgery at the University of Maryland Medical Center in October 2022, according to the school.

    McKee also lived in and was licensed to practice medicine in both California and in Nevada, where he was among doctors named in a personal injury lawsuit in a Las Vegas court in 2023. OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center in Rockford, Illinois, where McKee was working at the time of his arrest, declined to provide specific information on the dates of his employment. His Illinois medical license became active in October 2024.

    What is McKee accused of?

    An Ohio grand jury indicted McKee in the double homicide last week.

    McKee is accused of illegally entering the Tepes’ home with a firearm equipped with a silencer, shooting the Tepes — whose bodies were found in a second-floor bedroom — and leaving the property along a dark alley alongside the house.

    Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant has said that McKee was the person seen walking down that alley in video footage captured the night of the murders. She also said a gun found in his Chicago apartment was a ballistic match to evidence at the scene and that his vehicle’s movements were tracked from Columbus back to Illinois.

    A message seeking comment was left with McKee’s attorney.

    McKee is charged with two aggravated murder counts for each homicide, one for prior calculation and design and one for committing the crime, as well as facing the aggravated burglary count. If convicted, he faces a minimum of life in prison with parole eligibility after 32 years and a maximum term of life in prison without parole.

    How were the murders discovered?

    Columbus police conducted a wellness check on Spencer Tepe at around 10 a.m. on Dec. 30, after his manager at a dental practice in Athens, Ohio, reported that he had not shown up to work on that day, saying tardiness was very worrying and “out of character” for Tepe, according to a 911 call.

    Someone else called to request a wellness check before a distraught man who described himself as a friend of Spencer Tepe called police and said, “Oh, there’s a body. There’s a body. Oh my God.” He said he could see Spencer Tepe’s body was off the side of a bed in a pool of blood.

    The Franklin County Coroner’s Office deemed the killings an “apparent homicide by gunshot wounds.”

    Who were the Tepes?

    Family members said the Tepes were “extraordinary people whose lives were filled with love, joy and deep connection to others.”

    They have described Monique as a “joyful mother,” avid baker and “thoughtful planner.” According to their obituaries, which were issued jointly, the pair were married in 2020.

    Spencer Tepe got his bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University in 2012 and earned his doctor of dental surgery degree in 2017, according to school records. He was a member of the American Dental Association and had been involved with the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization.

    They had two young children. Both were home at the time of the killings and left unharmed, as was the family dog.

    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Cavaliers’ Darius Garland out at least a week with sprained toe

    CLEVELAND — Cavaliers guard Darius Garland will be sidelined for at least one week due to a sprained right great toe.

    Garland suffered the injury on Jan. 14 at Philadelphia and missed Friday’s game against the 76ers. The Cavaliers said further evaluation and imaging on Saturday revealed a Grade 1 sprain. The seventh-year guard will be reevaluated in seven to 10 days as he undergoes treatment.

    The two-time All-Star has missed 16 games this season due to a nagging injury to his left great toe, which he struggled with during the closing month of last season and the playoffs. Garland had surgery on the toe during the offseason.

    Garland is averaging 20.2 points and 7.4 assists over this last 16 games. He was shooting 50.4% from the floor and made 42 of 100 3-pointers.

    The Cavaliers have been plagued by injuries all season. After having the best record in the Eastern Conference last season, they are 24-19 and fifth in the East going into Monday afternoon’s game against the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder.

    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • Theater group thrives amid arts funding strain

    COLUMBUS, Ohio — New federal arts funding approved in Congress this week could bring relief to organizations across the country.

    But many arts groups are still absorbing the fallout from last year’s grant cuts and cancellations, and for those that didn’t rely on federal grants, the impact looked very different.

    What You Need To Know

    • New federal arts funding is back this year, but many arts groups are still feeling the fallout from last year’s grant cuts and cancellations

    • Stage Right Theatrics built a model that doesn’t rely on federal grants, staying steady through the cuts and using ticket sales, donors and local support to fund shows

    • Even with funding restored, experts say instability lingers because canceled grants forced programming cuts that haven’t fully returned

    Before rehearsals even begin, Robert Cooperman is already at work.

    He founded Stage Right Theatrics, a theater company producing short plays by writers from across the country. Ten years in, Cooperman is still hands-on.

    “Well, I felt that there was something missing in the theater world, and that was the more traditional or conservative point of view,” Cooperman said. “And I decided, why shouldn’t that voice be heard in the arts?”

    That perspective shows up in a mix of classic American playwrights and short plays that take on modern social issues. But Cooperman said that point of view also comes with challenges.

    “The kind of theater that I’m putting on, the ideas and philosophy I’m putting forth, that’s a little tougher to get any kind of grant,” he said.

    From the start, Stage Right built a different model. The company doesn’t rely on federal grants, meaning last year’s cuts didn’t hit them the same way. Instead, they’re funded primarily through ticket sales, donors and local support. Cooperman said local arts grants still came through last year, even as federal funding fell away for others.

    “Oh, twenty thousand dollars,” Cooperman said. “It may not seem like a lot, but it was a very, very good year for us… enough to sustain a couple of big shows.”

    While many arts organizations are still recovering from the federal arts cuts, Stage Right isn’t just surviving. It’s also finding a way to give back.

    The company offers half-priced tickets to theater-goers who bring food donations, which are then given to the Dublin Food Pantry.

    “I’m very happy, very delighted, to bring hundreds of pounds of food to the Dublin Food Pantry every time I run this promotion,” Cooperman said.

    But while Stage Right stayed steady, experts say many groups that depended on federal arts grants did not.

    “Organizations assumed when they were notified of their grants last year, or at the end of 2024, that they had those dollars coming in either for sustainability support or for specific programs,” said Sarah Sisser, executive director and CEO of CreativeOhio. “And when those grants were canceled, of course, they had to cancel some of that programming and didn’t have that support.”

    Even with federal arts funding approved again this year, Sisser said the damage doesn’t disappear overnight — because some programs that were cut never returned.

    “Everybody’s on edge about the reliability of some of this public funding that has been secured,” she said.

    For Cooperman, the plan moving forward is simple.

    “I am going to keep this thing going until I’m six feet under,” he said.

    Aliah Keller

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  • Ohio congresswoman demands transparency on recent ICE operations

    COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a letter sent to Kristi Noem, secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and Todd Lyons, acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Ohio Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-District 3, expressed concerns with recent ICE activity in central Ohio and called for full transparency.

    What You Need To Know

    • Ohio Rep. Joyce Beatty sent a letter to the secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement expressing concern and asking for transparency on recent ICE operations
    • She said in her letter that these have been “racially targeted raids” and were meant “to strike fear into the immigrant community”

    • Spectrum News 1 has reached out to ICE for comment

    In her letter, Beatty states that at least 214 people in the Columbus area have been detained by ICE since Dec. 17, the majority of whom were Latino or Black, as part of what’s been called Operation Buckeye.

    “These racially targeted raids began right before Christmas as a way to strike fear into the immigrant community and have largely targeted individuals without a criminal record,” her letter reads. “Furthermore, I have serious concerns surrounding the process and legal justification for this ICE operation.”

    The congresswoman notes declines in attendance at local churches and mosques due to fear. She also cited reports that ICE has been “targeting schools with large Hispanic populations.”

    In addition to these concerns, she also states that these operations have caused harm to the local economy as customers are scared to go out and support area businesses.

    Beatty said she is demanding “full transparency regarding the legal basis and the status of those detained.” Specifically, she is requesting the following information:

    1. “The full name, detention facility, and exact location of every individual detained from OH-03 currently in ICE custody;
    2. The legal justification for their detention, including charges, proceedings, case status;
    3. Whether the detainee has a criminal record;
    4. A detailed account of compliance with current law and procedures regarding the conditions in which individuals are being held, including access to medical care, mental health services, food, and legal counsel; and
    5. A full report on whether any complaints have been filed or internal reviews conducted related to racial profiling or discriminatory targeting during recent enforcement operations.”

    Spectrum News 1 has reached out to ICE for comment but has yet to hear back.

    View the full version of the letter here:

    Cody Thompson

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  • Bash on the Bay pauses event for 2026

    TOLEDO, Ohio — Organizers for Bash on the Bay, an annual country music festival held in Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, announced Monday it’s pausing the event this year, citing scheduling conflicts. 

    “Having the event during the week poses many difficult hurdles,” organziers wrote in a Facebook post. “We are working on moving the festival to Friday and Saturday.”

    They said if it’s not possible in Put-in-Bay, other venues will be explored, possibly on the mainland. 

    “We appreciate all the fan support over the past 10 years for the eight shows we have done and look forward to many more,” organizers wrote. 

    Last year’s Bash on the Bay featured many artists, including Luke Bryan, Parmalee, Kin Faux, Alex Miller and Sam Hunt. 

    Lydia Taylor

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  • MetroHealth host health fair to help the uninsured and underinsured

    CLEVELAND — More than half a million Ohioans lack health insurance, and when they need care, hospitals often shoulder the cost.

    What You Need To Know

    • MetroHealth held three events to help get people coverage and healthcare information

    • MetroHealth provides more than a million dollars a day in charitable care

    • This event was held at a Ukrainian church, and MetroHealth had several Ukrainian speakers available

    In a year and a half, Cheryl Holodnak will be eligible for Medicare.

    “I can’t afford to go without insurance because I have a lot of preexisting conditions, and I take a lot of medications,” said Cheryl Holodnak, a participant of the MetroHealth’s total care connection.

    Until then, she must find her own health insurance, and she said it has been very expensive for her. When she first retired from her job, she found a plan on Cobra that she said cost her $800 a month. Her insurance will expire in February, and it increased to $1,100 a month.

    On Saturday, she took part in MetroHealth’s Total Care Connection. An event created to sign people up for health insurance, give them access to doctors, information and various types of health care assistance. This is the third event, and their first one was held in November.

    “We know lots of folks are very nervous or are afraid they experience high costs, and for some folks that will stop them from seeking health care,” said Romona Brazile, the Executive Director for Government and Community Relations at MetroHealth.

    Romona Brazile said they brought these events to the community because they saw a problem. MetroHealth provides more than a million dollars a day in charitable care. That’s care to the uninsured or those who can’t afford to pay their medical bills.

    “We have seen an increase in the number of people without health insurance, which adds to a high amount of charity costs that over long term is unsustainable for us,” said Brazile.

    Between the last two events, Brazile said they have helped over 200 people. She said these events are not just about helping with health insurance but also about meeting people where they are with what they need.

    The event on Saturday was in an area populated by many Ukrainian people. The event was held at a Ukrainian church, and MetroHealth had several Ukrainian speakers available.

    Lyudmyla Mudra is a Doctor of Nurse Practice at MetroHealth. She is also from Ukraine. Her biggest concern is Ukrainians’ unfamiliarity with local healthcare.

    She said there is also a language barrier. Dr. Mudra speaks Ukrainian, and she often translates for the patients.

    Holodnak needed help to find cheaper health insurance, something she says she could not have done without MetroHealth.

    “I got a plan for under $500,” said Holodnak. “I was eligible for financial assistance, so they signed me up for that, and I also signed up for insurance through the health markets plan.”

    If you missed this event, you can contact MetroHealth at 216mymetro or 216 697-3876 to get help.

    The last day to sign up for insurance through the marketplace is January 15th. 

    Rose Todd

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  • Ohio running mate choices signal campaign focus

    COLUMBUS, Ohio — Both Ohio gubernatorial candidates announced their running mates, providing insight into each campaign’s political strategy and priorities ahead of the 2026 election. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Ohio gubernatorial candidates announced their running mates, providing early insight into their campaign strategies

    • Democrat Amy Acton selected former state senator David Pepper and Republican Vivek Ramaswamy chose Ohio Senate President Rob McColley as their running mates

    • Political experts said lieutenant governor selections rarely determine election outcomes but indicate how candidates intend to govern

    Democrat Amy Acton picked David Pepper, and Republican Vivek Ramaswamy picked Rob McColley, signaling the qualities they value in potential governing partners.

    Political science professor David Niven of the University of Cincinnati said the choice of a lieutenant governor typically has little effect on the outcome of a statewide race.

    “It really doesn’t matter who you put on the ticket as lieutenant governor. People are paying attention to the name on the top of the ticket, and the lieutenant governor is almost like the assistant candidate,” Niven said.

    Niven added that while lieutenant governor selections may not sway many voters, they are carefully chosen to complement the candidate’s message and experience. 

    “The very first rule of lieutenant governor choice is, do no harm, you know, the very first rule. Pick folks who aren’t going to cause scandals and stories that distract from the ticket,” he said.

    Former state senator Lou Gentile said Acton’s selection of Pepper brings statewide connections and experience navigating difficult periods, a combination he said could help Democrats make their case for change.

    “He also brings to the ticket, I think, the ability to raise money, to reach out to voters across Ohio. He’s been traveling across the state, and I think it’s really important when you’re selecting somebody, the two candidates really have to be comfortable with each other,” Gentile said.

    Republican strategist Amy Natoce said Ramaswamy’s selection of McColley strengthens his campaign by combining private-sector and government experience.

    “He’s really bringing in somebody who has extensive experience working with the legislature, passing a state budget, working with the governor’s office. So he really brings in that knowledge of how to navigate government relationships,” Natoce said.

    Gentile said Acton’s decision reflects her focus on leadership and governing experience.

    “You have somebody who has local government experience, particularly in a really difficult time during the 2008 financial crisis. David was in public office in Hamilton County and helped steer them out of that. He’s done a lot as it relates to property tax reform, affordability, public safety as a public official,” Gentile said.

    Natoce said the combination appeals to voters concerned with everyday issues.

    “He’s really appealing to the Republican base and also swing voters who are looking for some new leadership and people who have done the hard work of passing a budget, passing tax cuts, those things that really matter to Ohio families,” she said.

    Political experts said a candidate’s choice of lieutenant governor reflects their priorities, their goals for office, and what voters can expect if they are elected. In Ohio, they said selecting the right balance helps candidates connect with a wide range of voters.

    Saima Khan

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  • EPA proposal would remove Ohio wetland protections

    TWINSBURG — Erica Matheny, the executive director of Tinker’s Creek Watershed Partners, said protecting freshwater resources is critical.

    What You Need To Know

    • The EPA has proposed changing which waterways are protected by the Clean Water Act
    • The proposal would narrow what waterways are protected
    • The EPA estimates the change will remove federal protections for roughly 96% of Ohio’s wetlands
    • The rule change would make it easier for commerical and oil and gas development to happen on wetlands

    “We do a lot of work, a lot of outreach, helping to educate folks in all the communities around general environmental protections, around stormwater management,” Matheny said. 

    She spends a lot of time teaching people about the Tinker’s Creek watershed, the largest tributary of the Cuyahoga River. 

    A rule change proposed by the EPA will impact waterways around the U.S by changing what bodies of water are protected by the Clean Water Act. 

    “This would be the worst rollback of federal Clean Water Act protections by an administration since it was enacted in 1972,” said Jon Devine, the Executive Director of Freshwater Ecosystems at the National Resources Defense Council.

    Devine said the proposal would create a stricter definition of what water is protected under the Clean Water Act – the new definition only protecting waterways that are filled for a majority of the year. 

    “What it would really do is really hurt those streams that don’t flow year-round, or wetlands, marshy areas,” he said.

    Devine said this would open the door to commercial, oil and gas development on these wetlands. 

    “Really, those areas will be open to being exploited,” Matheny said. 

    The U.S EPA and Army Corps of Engineers analyzed the impact of the proposal –  estimating that roughly 94% of wetlands in Ohio would lose protections under the rule change. 

    Matheny said wetlands help filter out toxins in the water and provide important flood relief. 

    “If you don’t have wetland protections, then there might not be places for floodwater to go as easily,” Matheny said. 

    Right now, the rule change is only a proposal, and Matheny encourages those who support federal protections for wetlands to make their voices heard. 

    “Speak up. If congress and local legislatures don’t realize people’s care, then they are less likely to act. This water is everyone’s water. It’s a resource that belongs to the people, so I think it’s really important that people pay attention,” Matheny said.

    Corey O’Leary

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  • New GLP 1 weight-loss pill released

    OHIO — One in eight Americans now use weight loss injections, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation, and those numbers are rising.

    What You Need To Know

    • A pill form of a weight-loss injection has been released

    • The weight-loss medication may be accessible to more people due to lower cost

    • The pill eliminates the need to keep medication cold when traveling

    It’s expensive and not always covered by insurance, but the Food and Drug Administration has recently approved the drug in pill form, which may make it more accessible.

    The company that makes Wegovy injections released the pill this week.

    “I think it’s actually going to be the first time that people are going to look at different options to make things more affordable for patients,” said Dr. Peminda Cabandugama, endocrinologist and obesity medicine specialist at Cleveland Clinic.

    “When you take in a protein or a peptide through the mouth, it gets broken down by saliva and proteins. So, they figured out this molecule that actually binds the semaglutide molecule to get down into, all the way down to the stomach,” Cabandugama said.

    Nikki Raichart has been on the injection version for two years. Prior to that, despite taking care of a dog, running a real estate business and raising six kids, Raichart said she never had a problem taking weight off.

    “Even when I had my kids, I didn’t have any problems with weight loss until I hit midlife,” she said.

    She said she’s been able to keep off the last 20 pounds she couldn’t lose no matter what she tried.

    But the injection has its drawbacks, like having to keep it cold when you travel. The pill will eliminate that concern.

    “If you’re gone for two or three weeks, you just go without it but your cravings come back a little bit,” she said.

    Cabandugama said the pill is for more than just those with a needle phobia.

    A lower cost may make it more accessible to more people “when companies no longer (have) to worry about the plastic and spring loading to make an injection,” he said.

    Cabandugama said the pill is recommended for anyone with a body mass index over 30 or with BMI over 27 and with comorbidities like type two diabetes and high blood pressure. He said it’s unclear whether it will be covered by insurance.

    The pill requires a prescription and is taken daily versus a weekly injection.

    Kimberly Perez

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

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

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Vistra’s nuclear plants involved in the agreements include:

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

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

    Through the agreements Meta is purchasing: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    The Associated Press contributed to this report.

    Madison MacArthur, Associated Press

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  • Springfield local schools support staff on strike

    SPRINGFIELD, Ohio — Support staff from the Springfield Local School District in Lucas County have gone on strike because union contract standstill in negotiations.

    What You Need To Know

    • Nearly 100 members of the support staff Union Local 478 went on strike on Wednesday

    • Formal negotiations between the board and the labor union started in June 2025

    • Those affected by the strike are educational aides, custodians, cafeteria workers, recess monitors, secretaries and bus drivers

    Coming into the new year, the union and the school board did not come to an agreement. On Wednesday, nearly 100 support staff union local 478 members went on strike.

    They waved their signs and shouted their demands as cars drove by, and parents dropped off their kids at school.

    “We are out here for a better contract, a fair contract, fair wages and most importantly, we want to have lower insurance,” said Danielle Welch, a secretary with Springfield High School.

    Welch said the strike is heartbreaking. She is not only part of the support staff, but she’s also a parent with kids in the district.

    “I love the kids. They’re the best part of my job to me — to know that you’re making a difference in someone’s life. It’s just priceless,” explained Welch.

    Formal negotiations between the board and the labor union started in June 2025. The union’s contract ended at the ended June 30th.

    Chris Griffith from the Ohio Association of Public School Employees said after months of negotiations, they deserve better than what the Springfield school board is offering.

    “We’re out here picketing today for the right to work inside the schools. We’re picketing for better insurance rates,” said Griffith. “We can’t afford to have the increase the school board is putting on us right now.”

    The Springfield Local School District and Superintendent Matt Geha issued a statement saying: 

    “The district has negotiated fairly and honestly, suggesting contractual language that would benefit its employees and improve operations across the district. The board’s compensation package is believed to be fair and currently offers an increase in wages while asking for modest increases in health insurance contributions from the employee.”

    Those affected by the strike are educational aides, custodians, cafeteria workers, recess monitors, secretaries and bus drivers. School is still in session, but there is no busing, no hot lunch or breakfast, and the schools won’t be cleaned.

    “The funding cuts at the state level are dramatically hurting all these local school systems and the villages, and city schools, and it’s not looking any better,” said Griffith.

    Griffith said the strike will continue until they’re offered a better contract.

    “Come back to the table for a reasonable deal and have the board work with us to get an equitable contract for all of our people,” said Griffith.

    According to Griffith, the district’s proposals would reduce employer contributions to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), extend increased employee premium shares, shift additional healthcare costs onto support staff and fail to provide a wage increase that keeps up with the rising cost of living.

    It’s not clear when the union will meet with the board to discuss the contract.

    Rose Todd

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  • Gov. DeWine endorses Vivek Ramaswamy for governor

    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.”

    Madison MacArthur

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  • Five years after Jan. 6, questions remain

    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.

    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Storage solutions for holiday decorations

    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.”

    Rose Todd

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