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Tag: Ohio

  • 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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  • Ex-Husband Arrested in Ohio Double Murder

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    Police say surveillance footage and a recovered vehicle tied Monique Tepe’s ex-husband, Dr. Michael David McKee to the fatal shootings of the Columbus couple

    Michael David McKee, 39, has been arrested and charged with two counts of murder in connection with the fatal shooting deaths of Dr. Spencer and Monique Tepe, whose bodies were found in their Columbus home on December 30, 2025.

    Credit: Winnebago Sheriff’s Office

    McKee, identified as Monique Tepe’s ex-husband, was taken into custody on January 10 in Winnebago County, Illinois, and is being held pending extradition to Franklin County, Ohio. His initial court appearance has been scheduled for January 12, per Winnebago County.

    Police have said a suspect vehicle was identified through neighborhood surveillance and later located in Rockford, Illinois, where evidence linked McKee after the homicides. According to public court records, McKee has no prior criminal charges in Ohio, his motive for killing the couple is unknown.

    Screenshot
    Credit: Franklin County Clerk of Courts
    Screenshot
    Credit: Franklin County Clerk of Courts
    Screenshot
    Credit: Franklin County Clerk of Courts

    The couple’s two young children, ages 1 and 4, were inside the home at the time of the slayings but were unharmed. Investigators believe the victims were shot sometime between 2 AM and 5 AM on the day they were found. Police released surveillance footage of what has now been confirmed as McKee in a nearby alley. The Tepe’s brother-in-law, Rob Misleh, shared the family’s statement: “Today’s arrest represents an important step toward justice for Monique and Spencer. Nothing can undo the devastating loss of two lives taken far too soon, but we are grateful to the City of Columbus Police Department, its investigators, and assisting law enforcement community whose tireless efforts helped to capture the person involved. We thank the community for the continued support, prayers, and compassion shown throughout this tragedy. As the case proceeds, we trust the justice system to hold the person responsible fully accountable. Monique and Spencer remain at the center of our hearts, and we carry forward their love as we surround and protect the two children they leave behind. We will continue to honor their lives and the light they brought into this world.”

    Public records show that McKee and Monique, then known as Monique Frances Sabaturski, were married in August 2015 and officially divorced in 2017 in a Franklin County domestic relations case filed as Monique Frances Sabaturski vs. Michael David McKee (Case No. 17DR-1691). Court filings obtained by Plunder Studios include a 55-page packet of divorce documents. Per Plunder, Mckee and Monique were married for less than one year, mutual restraining orders were grant, and McKee was a physician turned surgeon, while Monique was working at Nationwide. Police released the following statement on Facebook, continuing to ask for information from the public: “THE COLUMBUS DIVISION OF POLICE CONTINUES TO ACTIVELY INVESTIGATE THE HOMICIDE OF SPENCER AND MONIQUE TEPE. AN ARREST WARRANT WAS ISSUED FOR MICHAEL D. MCKEE FOR MURDER. HE WAS TAKEN INTO CUSTODY WITHOUT INCIDENT IN ROCKFORD, ILLINOIS. SO, WE DO NOT COMPROMISE THE ACTIVE AND ONGOING CASE PROGRESS, INFORMATION WILL BE RELEASED AS APPROPRIATE. ANYONE WITH INFORMATION FROM THIS INCIDENT IS ASKED TO CONTACT THE COLUMBUS POLICE HOMICIDE TIP LINE AT 614-645-2228.”

    Scroll to continue reading

    The Columbus Homicide Department has not responded to Los Angeles’ request for comment or request for the probable cause arrest affidavit.

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    Lauren Conlin

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  • Ex-husband charged with murder in killing of Ohio dentist and his wife

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    A suspect was arrested in Illinois for the fatal shootings of an Ohio dentist and his wife, according to police.

    Columbus police issued a warrant for Michael McKee, a 39-year-old Chicago resident, on Saturday and police said authorities arrested him on the same day in Rockford, Illinois, without incident. He was charged with two counts of murder in the deaths of Spencer Tepe and Monique Tepe, police said.

    McKee is the ex-husband of Monique, according to Franklin County court records obtained by CBS News.

    The arrest came days after police released footage of a person of interest seen walking near the home of the victims around the time the dentist and his wife were killed.

    Investigators believe Spencer, 37, and Monique, 39, were fatally shot between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Dec. 30 in their home located in the Near East Side neighborhood of downtown Columbus, local police said. 

    Police in Ohio released footage of a person of interest who was seen walking near the home of Spencer and Monique Tepe around the time the dentist and his wife were killed.

    Columbus Police


    Officers were dispatched to the Tepes’ home in the late morning for a welfare check, according to a statement from the Columbus Division of Police. When they arrived, they found Spencer and Monique Tepe dead with apparent gunshot wounds.

    Investigators said no weapons were found at the scene and there were no signs of forced entry. Two children, a 1-year-old boy and a 4-year-old girl, were found inside the home uninjured. 

    Last week, CBS News obtained a 911 call from last April between a dispatcher and an unknown woman at the same address where the Tepes lived. 

    At around 2:45 a.m. on April 15, 2025, someone called 911 but hung up before speaking to an operator. Authorities called back to ask if everything was OK, and a woman said, “Me and my man got into it, but I’m OK, I promise.” She said she did not need police or paramedics. The call lasted around one minute.

    spencer-and-monique.jpg

    Spencer and Monique Tepe

    Rob Misleh


    In a statement released by the family, loved ones described Spencer and Monique Tepe as devoted parents and partners whose lives were centered on service, family and community.

    “We are heartbroken beyond words,” the statement said. “While no outcome can ever undo this loss, our family is committed to seeing this tragedy fully and fairly brought to justice, and to honoring Spencer and Monique by protecting the future of the children they loved so deeply.”

    Cara Tabachnick

    contributed to this report.

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  • FOP claims city manager is negotiating settlement with Hinton Jr.’s family

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    CINCINNATI — A heated dispute is unfolding in Cincinnati over a potential legal settlement tied to an officer-involved shooting.

    What You Need To Know

    • There is a heated dispute in Cincinnati regarding a possible legal settlement tied to an officer-involved shooting

    • The city’s FOP president is alleging the city manager is negotiating a settlement with the family of Rodney Hinton Jr. 

    • Hinton Jr. is charged in the killing of Hamilton County Sheriff’s Deputy Larry Henderson
    • This potential settlement stems from a fatal May 2025 police shooting involving Hinton’s 18-year-old son, a case prosecutors have ruled was legally justified

    The Cincinnati Fraternal Order of Police claims City Manager Sheryl Long is negotiating a settlement — possibly worth millions — with the family of Rodney Hinton Jr., the man charged with killing Hamilton County Sheriff’s Deputy Larry Henderson.

    “This is an absolute outrage—crime literally pays in Cincinnati under this City Manager,” Cincinnati FOP President Ken Kober said in a letter. “Sheryl Long is sneaking around behind closed doors, trying to shove taxpayers’ hard-earned money at the family of a cold-blooded cop-killer who deliberately mowed down Deputy Henderson just days after his son pointed a gun at one of our officers. It’s a slap in the face to every law enforcement officer risking their lives, a betrayal of the public trust, and a disgusting message that targeting cops has no consequences. This shady, underhanded deal must be stopped.”

    The proposed settlement stems from a fatal May 2025 police shooting involving Hinton’s 18-year-old son, a case prosecutors previously ruled was legally justified.

    The FOP said any payout would be an insult to law enforcement and taxpayers, especially as the city faces budget pressure and possible tax increases.

    Long strongly disputed those claims, saying no settlement has been finalized, and rejected accusations that discussions happened in secret or without the city council’s knowledge.

    She called the allegations reckless and said they only deepen divisions within the community.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Cody Thompson

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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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  • Clevelanders hold vigil for Renee Nicole Good

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    Good was shot and killed by an ICE officer Wednesday. The Trump administration has said the shooting was an act of self defense.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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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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  • Activists march in Cleveland for justice for Minnesota murder victim of ICE, some demanding the resignations of President Trump and Vice President JD Vance…By Clevelandurbannews.com, Ohio’s Black digital news leader…By Clevelandurbannews.com

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    ICE shooting victim Renee Nicole Good

    Clevelandurbannews.com and Kathywraycolemanonlinenewsblog.com

    Staff article

    CLEVELAND, Ohio – Community activists, led by groups like the Cuyahoga Democratic Women’s Caucus, Mobilize the Vote and Women’s March Cleveland, gathered for a rally and march Friday evening at Market Square Park in the Ohio City neighborhood in response to the tragic shooting death on Wednesday by ICE agents of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, MN.

    The speakers and organizers of the event were mainly activist women of Greater Cleveland, and several of them called for President Trump and Vice President JD Vance to resign, as well as the Trump administration. “Hey, hey, ho ho, Donald Trump has got to go, ” was among the chants levelled by protesters, some holding homemade anti-Trump and anti-ICE signs.

    Good, 37 at her death, was a mother of three and was gunned down by ICE on Jan 7, with ICE claiming she tried to run over the agent with her car, a lie by all standards, sources have said. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, both Republicans, defended the ICE agent at issue and have told national mainstream media that Good was the alleged perpetrator and not a victim, while Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, a Democrat, expressed outrage. Meanwhile, protests have erupted in Minneapolis and are spreading across the country.

    BACKGROUND OF THE INCIDENT

    ICE agents were conducting operations in a residential area of Minneapolis when one of their vehicles got stuck in the snow, reports say. Good was nearby, and masked men from ICE approached her car, leading her to drive away, one witness has said. Angry that she had driven off, one ICE agent began firing into her car, killing her.

    Clevelandurbannews.com and Kathywraycolemanonlinenewsblog.com, the most-read Black digital newspaper and Black blog in Ohio and the Midwest. Tel: (216) 659-0473. Email: editor@clevelandurbannews.com. We interviewed former President Barack Obama one-on-one when he was campaigning for president. As to the Obama interview, CLICK HERE TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE AT CLEVELAND URBAN NEWS.COM, OHIO’S LEADER IN BLACK DIGITAL NEWS.

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    editor@clevelandurbannews.com (Kathy)

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  • Meta signs 3 deals for nuclear energy to power AI data centers

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    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.

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

    The Mark Zuckerberg-led Meta said in a statement on Friday that the three deals will support up to 6.6 gigawatts of new and existing clean energy by 2035. A single gigawatt, according to a general industry standard for utilities, can power about 750,000 homes.

    “These projects add reliable and firm power to the grid, reinforce America’s nuclear supply chain, and support new and existing jobs to build and operate American power plants,” the company said.

    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.

    Meta will also buy more than 2.1 gigawatts of energy from two operating Vistra nuclear power plants in Ohio, in addition to the energy from expansions at the two Ohio plants and a third Vistra plant, Beaver Valley, near Pittsburgh, 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 to secure power from its nuclear plant in Clinton, Illinois.

    Constellation’s Clinton Clean Energy Center single nuclear reactor power plant is shown on July 25, 2025 in Clinton, Illinois. Meta signed a 20-year power purchase agreement with Constellation for the output from the plant.

    Scott Olson / Getty Images


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  • MLB prepared to produce, distribute local broadcasts for FanDuel network teams

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    NEW YORK — Major League Baseball is prepared to produce and distribute local broadcasts for teams whose telecasts are uncertain this season because of the financial problems of the FanDuel Sports Network regional networks.

    What You Need To Know

    • Main Street Sports Group, which operates the FanDuel networks, did not make its December payment to the St. Louis Cardinals

    • MLB took over broadcasts for San Diego in May 2023 after Diamond Sports Group missed a payment to the Padres and added Arizona that July

    • Manfred said local media provides more than 20% of industry revenue

    • MLB and the players’ association for 2024 allowed discretionary fund distributions of up to $15 million each to teams whose local media revenue had declined since 2022 or 2023, but they did not reach a similar agreement for 2025

    Main Street Sports Group, which operates the FanDuel networks, did not make its December payment to the St. Louis Cardinals. It also carries games of Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Kansas City, the Los Angeles Angels, Miami, Milwaukee and Tampa Bay along with 13 teams in the NBA and seven in the NHL.

    “No matter what happens, whether it’s Main Street, a third party or MLB media, fans are going to have the games,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said Thursday.

    MLB took over broadcasts for San Diego in May 2023 after Diamond Sports Group missed a payment to the Padres and added Arizona that July.

    Colorado joined MLB’s distribution in 2024, and Cleveland and Minnesota in 2025. Seattle is being added this season and possibly Washington, which is leaving the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network.

    A Main Street Streets Group spokesperson released a statement to Spectrum News on Friday that said: “We remain in active dialogue with all of our team partners regarding potential revised terms for agreements going forward.”

    Diamond was renamed Main Street Sports Group as it emerged out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings last year and its networks were rebranded as FanDuel.

    “Our focus, particularly given the point in the calendar, is to maximize the revenue that’s available to the clubs, whether that’s MLB Media or third party,” Manfred said. “The clubs have control over the timing. They can make a decision to move to MLB Media because of the contractual status now. I think that what’s happening right now clubs are evaluating their alternatives. Obviously they’ve made significant payroll commitments already and they’re evaluating the alternatives to find the best revenue source for the year and the best outlet in terms of providing quality broadcasts to their fans.”

    Manfred said local media provides more than 20% of industry revenue.

    MLB and the players’ association for 2024 allowed discretionary fund distributions of up to $15 million each to teams whose local media revenue had declined since 2022 or 2023, but they did not reach a similar agreement for 2025.

    “We are not providing financial assistance right now,” Manfred said.

    He spoke at a news conference to announce an initiative with Foster Love that envisions 250,000 volunteer hours to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States. At the news conference, MLB staff assembled duffel bags with goods for foster care children.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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  • MLB prepared to produce, distribute local broadcasts for FanDuel network teams

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    NEW YORK — Major League Baseball is prepared to produce and distribute local broadcasts for teams whose telecasts are uncertain this season because of the financial problems of the FanDuel Sports Network regional networks.

    What You Need To Know

    • Main Street Sports Group, which operates the FanDuel networks, did not make its December payment to the St. Louis Cardinals

    • MLB took over broadcasts for San Diego in May 2023 after Diamond Sports Group missed a payment to the Padres and added Arizona that July

    • Manfred said local media provides more than 20% of industry revenue

    • MLB and the players’ association for 2024 allowed discretionary fund distributions of up to $15 million each to teams whose local media revenue had declined since 2022 or 2023, but they did not reach a similar agreement for 2025

    Main Street Sports Group, which operates the FanDuel networks, did not make its December payment to the St. Louis Cardinals. It also carries games of Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Kansas City, the Los Angeles Angels, Miami, Milwaukee and Tampa Bay along with 13 teams in the NBA and seven in the NHL.

    “No matter what happens, whether it’s Main Street, a third party or MLB media, fans are going to have the games,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said Thursday.

    MLB took over broadcasts for San Diego in May 2023 after Diamond Sports Group missed a payment to the Padres and added Arizona that July.

    Colorado joined MLB’s distribution in 2024, and Cleveland and Minnesota in 2025. Seattle is being added this season and possibly Washington, which is leaving the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network.

    A Main Street Streets Group spokesperson released a statement to Spectrum News on Friday that said: “We remain in active dialogue with all of our team partners regarding potential revised terms for agreements going forward.”

    Diamond was renamed Main Street Sports Group as it emerged out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings last year and its networks were rebranded as FanDuel.

    “Our focus, particularly given the point in the calendar, is to maximize the revenue that’s available to the clubs, whether that’s MLB Media or third party,” Manfred said. “The clubs have control over the timing. They can make a decision to move to MLB Media because of the contractual status now. I think that what’s happening right now clubs are evaluating their alternatives. Obviously they’ve made significant payroll commitments already and they’re evaluating the alternatives to find the best revenue source for the year and the best outlet in terms of providing quality broadcasts to their fans.”

    Manfred said local media provides more than 20% of industry revenue.

    MLB and the players’ association for 2024 allowed discretionary fund distributions of up to $15 million each to teams whose local media revenue had declined since 2022 or 2023, but they did not reach a similar agreement for 2025.

    “We are not providing financial assistance right now,” Manfred said.

    He spoke at a news conference to announce an initiative with Foster Love that envisions 250,000 volunteer hours to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States. At the news conference, MLB staff assembled duffel bags with goods for foster care children.

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    Spectrum News Staff, Associated Press

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

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    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.

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    Madison MacArthur, Associated Press

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  • Ohio man accused of driving 100 mph during I-495 Christmas crash that killed teen, grandmother – WTOP News

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    An Ohio man is accused of traveling in excess of 100 mph along Interstate 495 when he slammed his Dodge Ram pickup into the back of a minivan on Christmas night, killing a 75-year-old Annandale woman and her 15-year-old granddaughter.

    This article was republished with permission from WTOP’s news partner InsideNoVa.com. Sign up for InsideNoVa.com’s free email subscription today.

    An Ohio man is accused of traveling in excess of 100 mph along Interstate 495 when he slammed his Dodge Ram pickup into the back of a minivan on Christmas night, killing a 75-year-old Annandale woman and her 15-year-old granddaughter.

    Investigators have obtained warrants charging Devin Juliana, 48, of Steubenville, Ohio, with reckless driving following the 10:39 p.m. crash in the eastbound lanes near the 49 mile marker in Fairfax County, Virginia State Police spokesman Matthew Demlein said Thursday.

    Troopers were called to the scene after witnesses reported a Toyota Sienna minivan in the eastbound Express Lanes with heavy rear-end damage. All five occupants in the Sienna were taken to area hospitals, where 75-year-old Su “Theresa” Nguyen and her 15-year-old granddaughter Annie later died. Andy, Annie’s 12-year-old brother, suffered serious head injuries, the family said in a GoFundMe campaign.

    A short distance from the Sienna, on the mainlines of I-495, troopers located a damaged Dodge Ram pickup with two injured occupants. Both the driver of the Ram, Devin Juliana, 48, of Steubenville, Ohio, and a 43-year-old passenger were taken to an area hospital, Demlein said in a news release.

    “The investigation indicates the Sienna was driving in the center lanes of the mainlines on Interstate 495 around the posted speed limit of 55 mph when the vehicle was struck in the rear by the Dodge Ram,” the release said. “The investigation shows the Ram was traveling at speeds in excess of 100 miles-per-hour. The impact crushed the rear interior compartment of the Sienna minivan and pushed it into the Express Lanes.”

    State police are “attempting to locate Juliana to serve the warrant and conduct an interview with him,” Demlein said.

    The GoFundMe campaign for the victims said six family members were in the Sienna minivan heading home from a family holiday event when they were struck from behind by the speeding pickup.

    “The family is in deep shock over the sudden and tragic loss of life and they are asking for your help to lighten the burden of this tragedy and allow Andy and his parents to focus on the long path of recovery ahead,” the campaign reads. “No one should ever have to endure what the Vu family is going through and although the driver of the truck has apparently fled to avoid arrest, we’re committed to bringing them and all others responsible to justice.”

    The campaign described Annie as “a sweet, smart girl” who loved piano, baking and her little brother, Andy.

    Theresa was described as a loving mother and grandmother who took her grandchildren to church every Sunday and had “a beautiful singing voice.”

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    Jessica Kronzer

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  • As President Trump and VP JD Vance support ICE agent who murdered Renee Nicole Good, Ohio Congresswoman Emilia Sykes demands accountability and a full scale investigation…Protests are mounting…By Clevelandurbannews.com, Ohio’s Black digital news leade

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    ICE shooting victim Renee Nicole Good

    Clevelandurbannews.com and Kathywraycolemanonlinenewsblog.com

    Staff article

     

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13), an Akron Democrat and one of three Black women in Congress from Ohio, released a statement urging a full investigation and accountability after the tragic shooting death by ICE agents of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, MN.

    Good, 37 at her death, was a mother of three and was gunned down by ICE on Jan 7 with ICE claiming she tried to run over the agent with her car, a lie by all standards, sources have said. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, both Republicans, defended the ICE agent at issue and have told national mainstream media that Good was the alleged perpetrator and not a victim, while Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, a Democrat, expressed outrage. Meanwhile, protests have erupted in Minneapolis and are spreading across the country.

    “The video of the shooting death of Renee Nicole Good is devastating to watch and raises questions about the use of deadly force,” said Rep. Sykes. “This event must be treated professionally and with a full investigation and complete transparency.”

    The congresswoman added that “as ICE agents have been deployed across the country, the administration must ensure they are adequately trained to de-escalate tense situations and maintain the safety of the American people. I will work with my colleagues to ensure accountability and safety.”

     

    Clevelandurbannews.com and Kathywraycolemanonlinenewsblog.com, the most-read Black digital newspaper and Black blog in Ohio and the Midwest. Tel: (216) 659-0473. Email: editor@clevelandurbannews.com. We interviewed former President Barack Obama one-on-one when he was campaigning for president. As to the Obama interview, CLICK HERE TO READ THE ENTIRE ARTICLE AT CLEVELAND URBAN NEWS.COM, OHIO’S LEADER IN BLACK DIGITAL NEWS.

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    editor@clevelandurbannews.com (Kathy)

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  • Officials warn of ongoing jury scam in Summit County

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

    What You Need To Know

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    Madison MacArthur

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  • Dayton-area lawyer faces over 90 felony charges

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    DAYTON, Ohio — A grand jury has indicted an Oakwood lawyer on 91 counts, Montgomery County Prosecutor Mat Heck Jr. announced. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Matthew Currie faces 49 counts of illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material and 40 counts of voyeurism

    • He also faces two counts of unauthorized use of computer/telecommunications property

    • Heck said Currie was previously the managing attorney at Advocates for Basic Legal Equality

    Matthew Currie faces 49 counts of illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material and 40 counts of voyeurism, as well as two counts of unauthorized use of computer/telecommunications property. 

    He was taken into custody in Oakland County, Michigan, on Wednesday, according to the county’s jail roster.

    An investigation by the Oakwood Police Department found that Currie allegedly took illicit photos of a 17-year-old Oakwood High School student through her bedroom window, and when she moved away, he continued taking photos of women through windows. 

    Additionally, the investigation found that Currie attempted to film up skirts in a video taken at Oakwood High School as he walked through the auditorium. 

    “This defendant was stalking and photographing an underage Oakwood High School student,” Heck said. “He then went on to sneaking around and photographing and videotaping other women in his neighborhood by looking through their windows. Everyone should feel safe and expect privacy in their own home. This defendant will be held accountable for this activity.”

    Heck said Currie was previously the managing attorney at Advocates for Basic Legal Equality. He was also named a “Community Gem” by the Dayton Daily News in Aug. 2025. 

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    Lydia Taylor

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  • Bruno Mars to tour in Ohio this spring

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    OHIO — Bruno Mars slides into the Buckeye State this spring as he launches his first global tour in nearly a decade.

    What You Need To Know

    • “The Romantic Tour” will follow the launch of Mars’ fourth solo album, “The Romantic” which debuts on Feb. 27

    • Mars will be joined by Anderson .Paak as DJ Pee .Wee as a special guest, along with Leon Thomas, Raye and Victoria Monet

    • Tickets start being available on Jan. 14 with artist presale, while general sales start at noon on Jan. 15 

    “The Romantic Tour” will follow the launch of Mars’ fourth solo album, “The Romantic,” which debuts on Feb. 27. The tour marks Mars’ first global stadium outing.

    Mars will be joined by Anderson .Paak as DJ Pee .Wee as a special guest, along with Leon Thomas, Raye and Victoria Monet on select shows. 

    Tickets start being available on Jan. 14 with artist presale, while general sales start at noon on Jan. 15 at BrunoMars.com.

    The 2026 tour will span nearly 40 shows across North America, Europe and the UK, starting April 10 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

    On May 20, Mars will perform at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. The Ohio show will also feature Anderson .Paak as DJ Pee .Wee and Leon Thomas. 

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    Madison MacArthur

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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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