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Tag: Ohio What You Need to Know

  • Montgomery Co L.O.S.S. Team helps loved ones navigate grief

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    Editor’s Note: This article discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

    DAYTON, Ohio — With journals, grief guidebooks and materials at the ready, members of the Montgomery County Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors (L.O.S.S.) Team is ready to start the first support session of 2026.

    “About two years ago, Public Health of Montgomery County came to us and said there’s not really suicide resources available in our county,” said Montgomery County Prevention Coalition Manager Megs Francis.

    The coalition got to work, and volunteers like Colleen Callahan-Penquite and Lora Hammons stepped up.

    What You Need To Know

    • The Montgomery Co Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors (L.O.S.S Team) are beginning the first session of 2026

    • Trained and dedicated volunteers help people share their stories of grief and healing throughout 10-week sessions

    • Sessions are free, and the next round is open for April

    “I have two cousins and two uncles that killed themselves, and there’s such a stigma around it. In my huge Catholic family, it was never spoken of,” said Callahan-Penquite.

    “I ended up being a volunteer because I lost a friend I was mentoring to suicide,” said Hammons.

    According to the most recent statewide data from the Ohio Department of Health 2023 Ohio Suicide Report, more than 1,700 Ohioans took their own life — that’s a 1% decrease from 2022.

    According to data from the Montgomery County ADAMHS Board, as of January 2025 to mid-December 2025, there were 73 suicides — a 17% decrease from 2024 and the second year in a row for a countywide decrease.

    Volunteers like Callahan-Penquite and Hammons have been on the L.O.S.S. Team since the support sessions started in 2025.

    So far, there have been four sessions with 10 participants each time.

    The newer session was the largest with 17 participants.

    “These are volunteers who have been trained on an evidence-based curriculum who are facilitating these trainings,” said Francis.

    It doesn’t matter if the loss happened recently or decades ago, everyone is welcome.  

    “Facilitating these groups and being with other people who are going through that really helped me,” Hammons said.

    “For folks who have lost someone, they are at higher risk themselves. So by doing this kind of support group, not only are we helping make connections, helping with healing, but also helping to prevent future suicide deaths,” said Francis.

    The 10-week sessions are free, and many times, people have formed their own bonds to keep coming back.

    “It’s kind of casual but it’s very serious. We really like to make it personal. Everybody’s loss and grief is different, so we try to meet everybody where they are at and travel this journey together,” Hammons said.

    “You’re not alone. There’s many of us that grieve a suicide, and when we do it together, we’re always better,” said Callahan-Penquite.

    If you missed registering for this latest 10-week round of support sessions, the next group is open for April.

    The deadline to register is Jan. 29.

    For more information, click here.

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    Alese Underwood

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  • MetroHealth host health fair to help the uninsured and underinsured

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    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. 

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    Rose Todd

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  • Ohio running mate choices signal campaign focus

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    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.

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    Saima Khan

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  • EPA proposal would remove Ohio wetland protections

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    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.

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    Corey O’Leary

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  • Permanent, seasonal shelter provides a refuge to Cleveland’s homeless

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    CLEVELAND — As winter weather is making its presence known throughout the state with snow and dropping temperatures, hundreds of people experiencing homelessness will seek shelter.

    It’s a yearly problem — just last winter, eighteen people in Cuyahoga County lost their lives because of hypothermia. 

    What You Need To Know

    • At the beginning of January, NEOCH opened a new, permanent seasonal overnight shelter at 1530 E. 19th St., in the Downtown Cleveland area. 
    • The shelter will provide breakfast and dinner, along with housing for 45 individuals per night.
    • NEOCH’s Street Outreach Specialists are tasked with helping notify the city’s homeless population about the new resource.

    The Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless (NEOCH) recognized the need for overnight winter-weather shelters. At the beginning of January, it opened a new, permanent seasonal overnight shelter at 1530 E. 19th St., in the Downtown Cleveland area. 

    “Traditionally, seasonal shelter has been carried out in unofficial church basements that are not sanctioned by the city,” Josiah Quarles, NEOCH’s Director of Organizing and Advocacy, said. “Therefore, we can’t even really like promote them fully because if the wrong person finds out, they might call somebody to get it shut down.” 

    Now, that’s an issue of the past. The permanent seasonal overnight can accommodate 45 people. It features bunk beds for overnight guests, a large kitchen to serve breakfast and dinner, along with a washer and dryer so staff can keep linens fresh. 

    However, making sure the people who need the shelter know about its existence is a laborious task.

    That’s where NEOCH’s ‘street outreach specialists’ come into play. These specialists meet the city’s homeless population where they are, whether that be downtown or at an encampment in a wooded area. 

    One specialist, Michael Mishaga, took to the streets Wednesday in a NEOCH mini-van packed with food, water and blankets. Just minutes after entering the heart of Cleveland’s downtown, Mishaga halted the van to give food, water and a blanket to a homeless individual sleeping on a grate. 

    “He slowly was accepting of us just to be there or to come back, but not ready to go to the shelter and not ready for anything more at this time,” Mishaga said. “We have to respect that. But, you know he is willing for us to stay in contact with him. So we’ll come back and we’ll see if we can develop a relationship far enough so that he feels comfortable with going to the shelter.”

    As a street outreach specialist, Mishaga’s job is to help and offer support while maintaining respect for the individual’s autonomy. 

    “I absolutely love the work I do, and I think I meet the most interesting people in the world,” Mishaga said. 

    Regarding the new permanent seasonal overnight shelter, Mishaga credits NEOCH’s Executive Director Chris Knestrick: “He was not going to let anybody die in the streets again.”

    The shelter is open nightly from 6 p.m. until 8 a.m.

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    Siobhan Harms

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  • Kent State University features first North African fashion exhibit in the world

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    CLEVELAND — More than 40 clothing pieces and accessories from 24 artists and designers across the world are now on display at Kent State University, and all of them share similar roots.

    What You Need To Know

    • More diversity, equity and inclusion efforts have made their way to runways in recent years, but the fashion industry continues to face significant racial disparities

    • Nearly 70% of Black employees feel fashion jobs are inaccessible, according to the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CDFA) and PVH Corp.

    • Kent State University is helping bridge this gap by exhibiting the work of one underrepresented community

    Sara Hume is a professor and curator at Kent State University’s museum. The building also houses Kent State’s School of Fashion, which is among the top 25 fashion schools in the world and ranks fifth nationwide. The exhibit, “A Meeting of Cultures: Fashioning North Africa,” showcases the work of contemporary designers who are from Morocco, Algeria, Libya and Egypt.

    Hume said, it’s the 30th exhibition she’s worked on campus, but the first of its kind the world.

    “North Africa is full of centers of fashion. When you think about Paris, London, New York, it’s big fashion centers, but really, Casablanca is [an] amazing place and Cairo has wonderful fashions that are coming out of it,” she said. “I really want to open eyes of of people in America, in Ohio, to this richness and diversity.”

    The exhibition opened in September after several years of planning. Hume said. The exhibit is part of her larger, ongoing project to spotlight fashion from different African regions and address a common misconception in an industry where Black and African designers have historically faced underrepresentation.

    “Back in 2016, I organized an exhibition, ‘Fashions of Southern Africa.’ And that exhibition looked at fashion of South Africa and Namibia and the idea, in doing sort of smaller regions of Africa, is the message that Africa is not a monolith,” Hume said.

    The space is divided into three section: our land, disruptors and threads. Altogether, highlighting the community’s diversity and contemporary concerns in the industry.

    Hisham Oumlil launched his brand in 2005, which aims to highlight the intersection of cultures. (Spectrum News 1/Tanya Velazquez)

    Hisham Oumlil is the only U.S.-based designer in the exhibit and is from Casablanca, Morocco.

    “We have the native atmosphere that we refer to as Berbers … we have the Black Africans, we have the Arab influence, we have the Byzantine, the Phoenicians and then we have the modern European influences. So it’s so very rich … It’s worth, representing, at the world stage.

    Oumlil, his fashion journey began in 1995 while studying and working in fashion retail in San Francisco.

    Now, Oumlil is helping spread awareness of Moroccan culture through his clothing brand Oumlil.

    “North Africans … we have always been a point of inspiration for European designers, for example. And so, to be celebrated, I think it’s really wonderful,” Oumlil said. “And it’s important, in continuing this, important dialog about the beauty of cultural intersections all throughout the world.”

    While fashion history is often told through a western lens, Oumlil said, he’s noticing the beginning of a broader shift toward equity.

    “It’s all an evolution, and it requires a collective sort of work and also an understanding from all the parties involved … by including more voices. into the fashion global, conversation,” Oumlil said. “… We have had very, very successful fashion designers who are originally from North Africa that have made very important contribution to the world of fashion.”

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    Tanya Velazquez

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  • New GLP 1 weight-loss pill released

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    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.

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    Kimberly Perez

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  • Springfield local schools support staff on strike

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    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.

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    Rose Todd

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  • What to know about this year’s tax changes under ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’

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    OHIO — With the passage of President Trump’s tax bill last July, tax filing season will look different for many Americans.

    What You Need To Know

    • A major tax bill passed last summer is bringing notable changes, and with more than 800 pages, it impacts a wide range of Americans

    • Workers who rely on tips — especially in the service industry — could see more of their earnings stay in their pockets

    • Overtime pay is getting a tax break — extra hours worked could now mean extra money kept, as some overtime income may be tax free

    • New relief measures may reduce how much people 65 and older owe, particularly those living on fixed incomes like Social Security or pensions

    The act is more than 800 pages long, so there’s a lot to unpack. But John Patriarca, the chief operating officer of P3 Financial Group, said there are three main takeaways most taxpayers should know.

    1. No tax on tips. Workers who earn tips may no longer have to pay federal taxes on that income. That’s a significant change for people in the service industry who rely on tips to make ends meet
    2. Overtime pay is also getting a tax break. If you work extra hours, that overtime money could now be tax free, depending on income and eligibility requirements
    3. Seniors aged 65 and older are seeing changes too. New tax relief measures could lower how much retirees owe, especially those living on fixed incomes like Social Security or pensions

    “There’s not a ton of controversy and overall, it’s you know, it is a good thing,” Patriarca said. “It will benefit the bulk of the taxpayers. They do project this year to be the largest amount in terms of volume and sheer number of tax refunds that are going to be going out.”

    Patriarca said the new laws are designed to benefit low-to-middle-income earners the most.

    “These income limitations obviously are designed to make sure that these policy changes affect and target lower to middle-income earners, which really are the people that deserve and need the tax breaks,” Patriarca said.

    He added the law is retroactive to January of last year, meaning the taxes taxpayers will prepare in 2026 are for the 2025 tax year.

    No Tax on Tips

    The new law allows qualified workers to deduct tip income if they meet certain requirements. Single filers can deduct up to $12,500, while married couples filing jointly can deduct up to $25,000, with income limits that phase out at higher earnings.

    No Tax on Overtime

    The overtime deduction follows a similar structure, including the same dollar limits and income phase-outs. Single filers have a maximum deduction of $12,500, while married filers can deduct up to $25,000.

    Patriarca said both of these deductions directly reduce taxable income, meaning there’s no need to itemize deductions whether a filer itemizes or takes the standard deduction.

    Senior Standard Deduction Increase

    Under the senior tax relief provisions, there’s an additional $6,000 deduction for taxpayers 65 and older who file single, and $12,000 for married couples filing jointly if both spouses qualify. There is an income limitation, however — $75,000 for single filers and $150,000 for married couples filing jointly, before the deduction begins to phase out.

    Patriarca said all the stipulations make professional guidance especially helpful to ensure everything is reported correctly and taxpayers get the most out of their money.

    While there’s a lot of advice online and on social media, he recommends not creating a tax plan based on information from an unqualified source.

    “2025 was a little bit goofy because these tax laws were put into place mid-year,” Patriarca said. “So, you just want to make sure you check with your employer to make sure they’re reported properly and then when you do file your tax return that you’re reporting those properly with whichever service you use.”

    Other notable changes

    Another change, Patriarca said, allows taxpayers to deduct the interest they pay on car loans, though there are limitations and eligibility requirements.

    For small businesses and self-employed individuals, the law also includes expanded bonus depreciation for certain assets placed into service.

    How often do tax changes happen?

    Patriarca said changes to tax law aren’t uncommon.

    “We do see tax law change generally whenever we see policy change within Congress,” Patriarca said. “And so, when we see a shift in power at that level, generally we will see potentially some new tax bills from new tax law, as we have in 2025.”

    The changes impact not only taxpayers but also employers responsible for filing W-2s and 1099s.

    “We just want to make sure that we’re doing our due diligence, making sure that we’re submitting all of our wage reporting, W-2, 1099 accurately so that our employees are in a favorable position and they’re able to file their taxes accurately and take advantage of the new tax code,” Patriarca said.

    These tax changes are currently set to run through the end of 2028, unless extended by future leadership.

    The IRS has not yet announced when it will begin accepting tax returns, though the agency typically starts processing returns in the last week of January. The deadline for filing taxes without requesting an extension is April 15.

    Patriarca also reminded taxpayers that filing an extension does not mean they can delay payment. Even with an extension, any balance owed must still be paid by April 15.

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    Taylor Bruck

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  • Nicolas Máduro’s removal sparks protests, celebrations worldwide

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    CLEVELAND — Marie Navarro is among the millions of Venezuelans celebrating Nicolas Máduro’s removal, but not all are one board with how it was done.

    What You Need To Know

    • Former Venezuelan leader Nicolas Máduro appeared in U.S. court facing drug and weapons charges

    • The United States launched strikes on Venezuela and captured Máduro Saturday morning, sparking controversy worldwide

    • In recent weeks, the United States seized two oil tankers off Venezuela and more than 110 people have been reportedly killed in recent U.S. airstrikes on boats it alleges were carrying drugs
    • Protests against US military action in Venezuela and celebrations of Máduro’s removal took place around the globe over the weekend

    Venezuela’s Economic Crisis

    Navarro first moved to the United States in 2017, and is now the owner of Tumbao58 at CentroVilla25 in Cleveland. She’s one of nearly 8 million Venezuelans who’ve left the country in search of better living conditions since Máduro took office.

    Venezuelans have endured more than a decade of economic devastation under a leader many consider illegitimate, including the United States. According to the Human Rights Watch, more than 80% of Venezuelans have been living in poverty and lack access to basic services like food and medicine.

    “It is something that we were waiting for, on my part, not with much eagerness because the Venezuelan people have been looking for our freedom for many years,” Navarro said.

    Maduro had maintained power through various tactics that violate human rights principles, including restricting internet access and jailing political opponents and critics. 

    History of U.S. intervention

    The United States has a long history of intervention in the Caribbean and other Latin American countries, which can be traced back to as early as the 1823 Monroe Doctrine, which has been used repeatedly by U.S. presidents to justify foreign intervention.

    Gloria La Riva is an organizer for the Now to Stop War and End Racism (ANSWER) Coalition and a longtime activist in Latin America, including Venezuela. 

    “There has not been anything like this since the U.S. takeover of Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Philippines in 1898,” La Riva said.

    La Riva said she met Máduro herself in 2000 when he was a young political activist.

    “People don’t know much about the history of Venezuela, but from the turn of the 20th century until 1999, the U.S. ruled over the vast resources that Venezuela has” La Riva said.

    Still, Navarro said she is hopeful Máduro’s removal from office is the first step in addressing the longtime needs of Venezuelans.

    “Our country is in ruin … so, I am sure that this whole transition is going to greatly favor us for the people, that is, the people are going to see the fruit of their wealth again,” Navarro said.

    Venezuelan Oil and Narcotrafficking

    U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly accused Máduro’s government of engaging with drug trafficking.

    “I’ve been in Venezuela since 2001 many times, and in the very beginning there was a lot of violence, a lot of drug violence, a lot of gun violence. You could see 100 people murdered on a weekend in the capital of Caracas. That doesn’t happen now,” La Riva said.

    Trump also announced Saturday the U.S. will run Venezuela and take control of its massive oil reserves.

    Delcy Rodiguez, who’s previously served as Vice President to Máduro and vowed to work with Trump, was sworn in as Venezuela’s interim president Monday morning.

    “Trump admitted that the aim is, he said, we will take back the oil, the land and the resources that have been stolen from the U.S.…Venezuelan resources do not belong to the United States. It belongs to the Venezuelan people for their economic benefit,” La Riva said.

    The United States’ recent military action in Venezuela is the latest escalation in increasingly tense relationship between the two countries revolving around Venezuela’s main raw material, La Riva said

    “So, beginning with President Obama, a very heavy series of sanctions had been imposed, more than 1000 sanctions, economic … on the country, on its leaders, on the resources, [on] the oil corporation of CITGO in the United States, which belongs to Venezuela, was confiscated by the U.S.” La Riva said.

    Contemporary US-Venezuela Relations

    “I had been working for 20 years at two large companies.  Those jobs don’t exist anymore,” Navarro said. “This is due to all the failed economic policies that have made it impossible for any company, anywhere in the world, to be sustainable over time.”

    Venezuela is home to the largest crude oil reserve in the world. Navarro said she hopes the United States will help Venezuelans rebuild their country rather than exploit it.

    The U.S. was Venezuela’s primary market for oil until Hugo Chavez took power in 1999. Now it’s China and Russia.

    “Venezuela has undoubtedly already been invaded by Russia, China and Cuba, who have been stealing all our oil and all our wealth for years,” Navarro said. “… Perhaps the United States, in this role, could act as a kind of police force that could stop these kinds of events. Right? I’m not… I’m not entirely against this decision.”

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    Tanya Velazquez

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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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  • 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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  • 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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  • 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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  • Parma hosts inaugural New Year’s Eve Pierogi Drop

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    CLEVELAND — Justin Sollinger’s giant pierogi is mounted on a 30-foot pole on the roof of restaurant Sloppy Bob’s in Parma, and no, you can’t eat it.

    What You Need To Know

    • While millions of Americans are tuning in to see the famous ball drop at Times Square, many northeast Ohioans are gathering for their own New Year’s Eve celebration.

    • Parma is home to the largest Ukrainian population in Ohio, along with Polish and other Eastern European communities.

    • At the heart of the city’s Ukrainian Village, Sloppy Bob’s is adding a unique cultural twist to an iconic tradition.

    “It’s built out of a piece of plywood… a prefabricated metal frame… heavy fabric,” Sollinger said. “A lot of steel, spray paint, epoxy. It’s got a whole lot of stuff in there.”

    Sollinger hopes it’s the start of a new tradition. The restaurant is partnering with the City of Parma and nonprofit We Are Parma Proud to host the inaugural Parma Pierogi Drop. The event kicks off the New Year and celebrates the city’s bicentennial anniversary.

    Kelly Lasecki and her husband co-own Sloppy Bob’s, which has served Parma residents in the Ukrainian Village for the last seven years. She said the idea for the Pierogi Drop came about during her and her husband’s most recent trip to their go-to destination, Key West.

    “We were out there this last year, and we decided … they drop a conch shell from Sloppy Joes… what would be better in Parma than to drop a Pierogi,” Lasecki said.

    State Meat’s sister company Mama Maria’s Kitchen cooked hundreds of their famous pierogies for Sloppy Bob’s NYE celebration. (Spectrum News 1/Tanya Velazquez)

    Lasecki said the celebration also shines a spotlight on the city’s strong Eastern European roots, inviting residents to explore traditional foods and festivities along State Road.

    “They’re going to shut the streets down, and you’ll be able to do like a bar crawl and meet safely walking back and forth,” she said. “And then there’s a couple of food trucks going on. We have live music outside of Sloppy Bob’s.”

    While he’s excited for the giant pierogi’s grand landing, Sollinger said, he has even higher hopes for future celebrations.

    “This is the first year. So we only had a few months to plan it,” he said. “We want it to be bigger and bigger and bigger and better next year and make it like three times the size it is now.”

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    Tanya Velazquez

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  • The Power of manifesting in the New Year

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    Manifesting, experts say, isn’t just about vision boards or positive thinking. It starts with reflection. Many yoga instructors encourage people to get grounded, look back on the year they had and release the guilt that often comes with feeling like they didn’t do enough.

    What You Need To Know

    • As the new year begins, many people are looking ahead — setting goals, making resolutions and hoping for a fresh start

    • But experts say before rushing into “doing more,” there’s real value in first slowing down

    • As 2026 approaches, wellness professionals say reflection and manifestation can be powerful tools for moving forward with intention rather than pressure

    • Rather than focusing only on what you want to achieve, the owner of Granville Yoga suggests asking yourself what you want to feel more of in the new year

    Maybe you weren’t as productive as you wanted to be. Maybe you spent the year simply trying to get through it, and that’s OK. Others may realize they actually accomplished a great deal — they just haven’t taken the time to pause and recognize how far they’ve come.

    Kelli Biehle, owner and instructor at Granville Yoga, said checking in with yourself is essential before setting intentions for the year ahead.

    Instead of judging the past, she encourages reframing it — viewing experiences and accomplishments as information. Rather than focusing only on what you want to achieve, she suggests asking yourself what you want to feel more of in the new year.

    “We’re go, go, go, and we’re always looking for that next thing, right? We’re trying to get to the next career goal or whatever,” Biehle said. “Our tagline of the studio is listen to your body to hear what’s on your mind that like, feel that like your body knows. Your body knows already. You just have to slow down enough to like, actually take stock and see what it’s trying to tell you.”

    She said awareness is a critical first step. From there, manifestation begins with gratitude — intentionally acknowledging the people and moments you’re thankful for.

    Biehle recommends starting with reflection and release: looking back on the past year with gratitude while letting go of what no longer serves you. From there, she suggests clarifying intentions in areas like health, career, and relationships — being specific about what you want, such as financial security rather than simply “more money.”

    Visualization is another key step. Closing your eyes and imagining yourself living your goals — and allowing yourself to feel the emotions associated with achieving them — can help make those goals feel more tangible. Using present-tense affirmations, such as “I am healthy” or “I love my body,” can also help train the mind to believe change is possible.

    Finally, she emphasizes taking action by breaking big goals into smaller, achievable steps for the first few months of the year.

    One practical tool Biehle recommends is journaling to help process the past year. She suggests writing about what did and didn’t serve you — and why — focusing especially on how certain situations made you feel.

    She also encourages answering the question, “What would it take?” For example: What would it take to start a business? To become a yoga teacher? To go back to college?

    Another exercise is writing down what excites you, then repeatedly asking yourself why — digging deeper each time. The final step is defining what success looks like for you personally, and understanding why it matters.

    “Sometimes I think that we get really focused on goals and we get really focused on this outer version of success. And I think as a whole society, we would really benefit a lot from thinking about what types of success we want and what actually makes us be like a successful human being, not a human doer,” Biehle said. 

    For those who don’t enjoy journaling, Biehle said writing notes in a phone or even talking things out loud can be just as effective. The key, she said, is getting thoughts out of your head and into conscious awareness.

    “Sometimes stillness isn’t really possible, you know, just for life reasons and so it can also look like these times of reflection can look like not putting in your earbuds for the first ten minutes of your walk, or the first ten minutes on the, the bike, whatever it is,” Biehle said. “It looks different and the idea of just finding some time to reflect is what is important here.”

    Above all, she reminds people to be kind to themselves. Growth and success look different for everyone, and progress isn’t about rushing to a destination — it’s about honoring the journey along the way.

    For more information about Granville Yoga and new year yoga classes, click here. 

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    Taylor Bruck

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  • Don’t let your live Christmas tree become a fire hazard

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    COLUMBUS, Ohio — The holidays may be over, but fire officials say the danger from live Christmas trees is actually increasing.

    What You Need To Know

    • Real Christmas trees can become fire hazards 

    • Make sure if you’re leaving your tree up that it’s well watered 

    • The state fire marshal said that trees can ignite and burn quickly 

    The Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of State Fire Marshal is urging families to remove dried-out trees from their homes before they become a serious fire hazard.

    According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than a third of Christmas tree fires happen in January. Once a tree dries out it, it can ignite quickly, burn intensely and allow flames to spread through a home in just minutes.

    Paul Martin, assistant chief to the State fire Marshal prevention bureau, said the longer a real tree stays inside, the more dangerous it becomes. He warns that dry trees burn hot and fast putting both property and lives at risk.

    “Every year in the nation we see about 200 fires related to Christmas trees and a lot of them due to under water of the trees drying out and when you think about that, you basically have a big tinder bundle in your living room that could go up very quickly. The thing that I was trying to tell people about Christmas tree fires in general is, when they burn, they burn really fast and they burn really hot so it gives you little time to escape the fire so they’re very dangerous fires as well,” said Martin.

    Fire officials also recommend keeping real trees well-watered while they’re still on display, checking water levels often and never letting the stand run dry. When it’s time to take the tree down, Ohioans are encouraged to use local recycling programs to pick up the trees safely.

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    Cassidy Wilson

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  • Women-owned and operated auto repair shop is first of its kind in Cleveland

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    CLEVELAND — Popping car hoods and changing car parts has been Carbae’s passion for more than a decade. She’s the owner and operator of Carbae’s Auto Service and Repair, which is the first business of its kind in Cleveland.


    What You Need To Know

    • Women in the automotive industry are a small but growing minority in the United States

    • A northeast Ohio business owner, who goes by the name “Carbae,” is opening doors to the next generation of women in the industry

    • Carbae said that her business is the only woman-owned and operated auto repair shop in Cleveland, which first opened its doors in May

    Carbae said her auto repair journey began in 2015 as a roadside technician at AAA, becoming the only female tech in Ohio.

    She graduated from Ohio Technical College three years later and worked at other local auto repair shops before starting her own business offering mobile services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Women represent 12% of all mechanics in the United States. Carbae said, she’s hoping to help bridge that gap.

    “When I started out, we only represented 4% of mechanics in the United States. So I feel like that number is growing,” she said.

    She said, she’s hoping to continue inspiring other women to step out from behind the steering wheel.

    “I want to be able to offer classes here one or two days a week… get some girls who are really passionate and about doing this,” Carbae said.

    Jazz White joined the auto repair team a month ago but has worked in the car industry since a young age. 

    “I’’ve been doing this since I was 12,” White said. “My grandfather used to work at Ford, and he started real young, when he was, like 17. He moved down here with my grandmother from Marion, Alabama … He just taught everybody how to work on cars, and since then, I just never stopped.”

    White said she’s also an Ohio Technical School graduate, now using her experience and expertise to help others.

    “That’s really what [we’re] promoting right now. Just women empowerment and Black women empowerment,” White said.

    And while they’ve received significant support, Carbae said, they’re still pushing for more progress in the community. 

    “I also want to maybe be able to provide cars like the women who catch the bus with all the kids in the snow,” Carbae said. “… It should be a program out here to help them get vehicles and teach them how to maintain them. And that’s that’s what I want to do. That’s what my passion is.”

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    Tanya Velazquez

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  • Free clinic appreciation month

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    CLEVELAND — There are more than half a million people in Ohio who do not have health insurance.

    What You Need To Know

    • Ohio has 59 free and charitable clinics and pharmacies that provide essential care for the uninsured

    • CHN supports clinics in 86 of the state’s 88 counties 

    • In 2024, Salaam Clinic saw around 700 patients; this year, that number doubled to nearly 1400 patients seen

    Ohio has 59 free and charitable clinics and pharmacies that provide essential care for the uninsured. They’re supported by the Charitable Healthcare Network, and this month, CHN is celebrating the care they provide to patients in 86 of the state’s 88 counties.

    Salaam Clinic is one of several clinics in Cleveland. They see hundreds of patients a year. Shafeeq Sabir is one of those patients.

    “The opportunity is there for me to see a doctor, a physician, without having to worry about a cost factor,” said Sabir.

    Sabir has insurance but said he has a copay, and he’s on a fixed income. Salaam Clinic takes in uninsured, underinsured and those who cannot afford care.

    “Sometimes I can’t afford the copay, so I would prefer to come here for an exam before I go and see my primary physician,” said Sabir.

    Salaam Clinic is part of the Charitable Healthcare Network. The network is celebrating Free Clinic Appreciation Month this December.

    The network is Ohio’s statewide system that supports free and charitable clinics. Jason Koma is CHN’s Executive Director. He said the network’s 59 clinics provide high-quality health care to those who need it.

    “We are the backbone of the safety net of health care in the state of Ohio,” said Koma.

    More than 60,000 patients were seen at one of the network’s facilities from Jan. to Sept. 2025. In 2024, the clinics saw nearly 80,000 patients.

    The network’s clinics offer a wide range of services including primary care, specialty, dental, vision, behavioral health, social services, pharmacy, education, prescriptions, tests and insurance enrollment. In 2024, CHN’s clinics provided $224 million worth of services to patients all over the state. The network is supported by funds from the Ohio Department of Health and the state budget.

    The Ohio Department of Health said this in a statement.

    “Free clinics are an integral part of the healthcare system in Ohio, which is why the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) financially supports healthcare services to patients who lack the funds or insurance coverage to pay for vital health services.

    ODH support comes through the Uninsured Care Fund, a general revenue fund line item used to support free and charitable clinics providing medical and dental care at free or reduced costs to uninsured and underinsured Ohioans. These funds pay for primary healthcare services to any uninsured person who gets healthcare services at a free clinic in Ohio.”

    Every fiscal year, CHN gets $1.75 million to support the individual clinics around the state.

    Salaam Clinic receives funding from several sources, including CHN. Dr. Syed Shoaib Shah is the CEO of the Salaam Clinic.

    “Year over year it takes about $230,000 to run the clinic,” said Shah. “We have a part time nurse practitioner on staff as well as an administrative assistant and then includes all the supplies, all that lets us run all the mobile clinics, all the pop-up clinics that we do around the city.”

    However, the clinic doesn’t always get the full amount, and the clinic is looking at other options, including private donations.

    “Without the Charitable Healthcare Network in our clinics, these folks would have nowhere else to go,” said Koma. “Probably ending up in the emergency room and getting sicker and sicker and sicker.”

    According to UnitedHealthcare, the average emergency room visit costs $1700, but the cost depends on the services and care provided. Shah said clinics can be the first stop to getting healthy.  

    “We make sure every patient leaves with a roadmap and they know where they’re going, what they’re doing, and they have the referrals and check,” said Shah.

    Shah said clinics like his are saving lives. He said that even though they are seeing more patients and expect to see even more patients; he wants the community to know the clinic is here for them.

    “Hospitals are closing their outpatient centers because they can’t afford the care that they’re giving to the uninsured population,” said Shah.

    In 2024, Salaam Clinic saw around 700 patients. This year, the number doubled to nearly 1400 patients seen. With rising healthcare costs, Shah said the number will continue to rise, but they are happy to serve the community.

    “We expect to see more patients that are underinsured and uninsured, but they cannot afford care,” said Shah.

    Sabir said he’s grateful for Salaam Clinic and he tells everyone he knows about the clinic.

    “An opportunity of this service and that really has just gives me a better feeling consciously in my thinking and in my health, and I just feel much, much better about my life,” said Sabir.

    To become a patient of Salaam Clinic, first call them at (216) 243-7924. From there, the staff will recommend next steps and provide resources. If you would like to visit the clinic, appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.

    Saleem Clinic in Midtown, at 7401 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44103, is open on Sundays from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Their Solon location at Chagrin Valley Islamic Center at 6909 Liberty Rd. is open every last Friday of the month, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. They also do pop-up and mobile clinics.

    Salaam Clinic has a multilingual staff who speak French, Arabic, Swahili, South Asian languages, Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi.

    Salaam Clinic, along with the other clinics in the network, are nonprofit clinics with paid and volunteer employees.

    The clinics accept monetary donations, and for every dollar donated to the Charitable Healthcare Network, it provides $13 worth of healthcare.

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    Rose Todd

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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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