Cleveland News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!
Hosted by Corey with the Story, Cleveland News Today delivers fast, focused daily updates on the stories shaping Cleveland, Ohio—from local news and business to culture, sports, and community developments. Designed for quick, on-the-go listening, each episode brings you up to speed in minutes. Produced by AI for speed, consistency, and global scale, the show is part of The Daily News Now network—bringing local news to every city in the world and keeping communities connected. Cleveland News Today is your daily snapshot of what’s happening across the city. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai
Students Build Hope in Ecuador
A Cleveland student crew just landed in Ibarra, Ecuador, and they’re already rolling up their sleeves at the local hospital—unpacking 3D-printed prosthetics, setting up gear, and training staff to ensure lasting impact. Partnering with Hands Across Borders and MedAccess International, these young innovators are tackling medical needs with fresh, game-changing solutions that even seasoned professionals admit they can’t replicate. Their mission? To empower the hospital so help continues long after they leave. For Sajayah Stephens and her team, the real victory isn’t just delivering devices—it’s knowing their work will keep saving lives. First patients arr...
2026 NBA Draft Recap and What It Means
The 2026 NBA Draft delivered electrifying moments as top prospects entered the league, with teams balancing immediate wins and long-term visions amid behind-the-scenes trades and surprise picks. Fans and players alike celebrated years of hard work, while analysts dissected bold roster moves that could reshape franchises for seasons to come. The stage is set for a thrilling new chapter in NBA history.
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Parents Fight to Save Middle School Sports
When tax proposals failed, Streetsboro City Schools slashed middle school sports and clubs — sparking a parent-led fight. Forming the nonprofit Rocket Boosters, they rallied funds and advocacy, winning back programs through a school board vote. Now, students pay $300 for sports and $50 for clubs — but freshman and JV teams remain cut. Coaches fear long-term talent loss, while parents push for a temporary funding solution with nearly 400 petition signatures. This local battle mirrors a statewide school funding crisis in Ohio.
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Ohio Governor Commutes Death Sentence
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has commuted the death sentence of Gregory Lott, the first such move in his tenure, sending him to life without parole after decades on death row. Convicted in 1986 for a savage murder involving an 80-year-old victim set on fire, Lott’s case hinges on his documented intellectual disability — a condition now legally barred from execution under Supreme Court rulings. Despite the brutality of the crime, the governor’s decision reflects shifting moral views and legal realities, bolstered by the victim’s family opposing capital punishment and the prosecutor’s withdrawal of opposition. DeWine, who previously paused exe...
Ohio Tightens Sex Offender School Rules
Ohio’s Senate just passed a sweeping new bill banning most Tier Two and Three sex offenders — and some Tier One offenders with child-related convictions — from school grounds, daycares, and even ticketed school events like football games. While exceptions allow drop-offs, parent-teacher conferences, or voting at school polling places, critics say current laws leave gaping holes — like letting offenders own kid-focused businesses or attend events like father-daughter dances — sparking urgent calls for safer, clearer protections for children as the bill heads to the House.
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Jordan Vandergriff’s Funny Car Triumph
Jordan Vandergriff is back on the track at Summit Motorsports Park, chasing glory in his first Funny Car race at the venue — and his first career win. Once a reality TV star on “The Bachelorette” and “Bachelor in Paradise,” he’s now proving his grit behind the wheel, thanks to a legendary ride with John Force Racing. With his sights set on the Diamond Wally and the track’s iconic ice cream scoop trophy (which, yes, you can actually eat with), Vandergriff laughs off the comparison: winning a race beats winning a rose — but he’s still open to both. Fans are inv...
The 18-Year-Old Who Designed Cleveland's Flag
Eighteen-year-old Susan Hepburn stunned the world by winning Cleveland’s 1895 flag design contest—making her one of the first women ever to design a city flag. Her winning entry, a tribute to the immigrant founders of the city, beat out skeptical male competitors and became a beloved symbol seen everywhere from police uniforms to Terminal Tower. A new exhibit at the Cleveland Public Library uncovers her legacy, including the romantic twist: the reporter who delivered her $50 prize dropped them all over her floor—and they married a year later. Her great-granddaughter helped curate the show, keeping her story alive, and la...
Nanny Saves Toddler From Snatch Attempt
A nanny narrowly prevented a kidnapping attempt in Lakewood’s Madison Park when a man allegedly tried to snatch a two-year-old child—she held on tight and pulled the kid back safely. The suspect, dressed in all black, fled south but was quickly spotted and arrested by police just blocks away. Zechariah Crawford, 35, from Cleveland, faces kidnapping charges with a $1 million bond and has no known connection to the child. Authorities urge everyone to stay vigilant—even in familiar, safe neighborhoods.
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One Year After Rainbow Terrace Explosion
One year after the catastrophic gas explosion at Cleveland’s Rainbow Terrace Apartments that killed Cordale Sheffield and displaced dozens, survivors and the community gathered to honor the fallen and demand justice. City Councilman Richard Starr vowed accountability once the ongoing investigation — now handled by specialized labs — uncovers the cause. Meanwhile, Sheffield’s family, led by attorney Stanley Jackson, runs its own parallel probe, pushing for transparency and systemic change to prevent future tragedies, even as officials say no criminal charges have been filed and the fire department rules out foul play.
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Juneteenth Incident Sparks Community Dialogue
After Elyria’s Juneteenth celebration turned tense when a 15-year-old girl was restrained by police, sparking outrage and painful echoes of George Floyd’s death, community voices are divided. While a use-of-force expert says the officers’ actions weren’t excessive, City Council member Brad Armstrong and activist Ethan West argue for better de-escalation. The officer involved is on paid leave as an investigation unfolds — but West still celebrates Juneteenth’s success and hopes the incident ignites meaningful community healing.
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Dyson V8 Vacuum Drops to $299.99
Walmart’s summer sale is dropping serious heat on the Dyson V8 Absolute cordless vacuum—now just $299.99, nearly half off its original $589.99 price. This powerhouse handles carpets, hardwoods, and pet hair with ease, weighs just 5.8 lbs, and features HEPA filtration plus 40 minutes of runtime. With 4,900+ 4.3-star reviews praising its suction, lightweight design, and mess-free bin-emptying, it’s a top-rated pick. Free shipping and 30-day returns included, plus a wall-mounted dock for storage. Upgrade your cleaning game—this deal won’t last.
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FirstEnergy’s $12.5M Grid Fix
After two years of recurring power outages, Lakewood and West Park residents are finally seeing progress as FirstEnergy installs new transformers—part of a $12.5 million upgrade promised a year ago—with full operation expected by September. While hopeful, residents like Cheyenne Burke demand proof and better communication. Council member Tom Bullock praises the effort but urges proactive planning, noting delays could’ve been avoided. Beyond transformers, FirstEnergy is replacing breakers, rolling out smart meters, and trimming trees at 100 sites to boost grid resilience. The company admits trust must be rebuilt—and is focused on delivering visible improvements to prove reliabil...
Empowering Seniors Through Preparedness
Solon’s “Safe & Sound” program just won a national award—and for good reason. This empowering initiative helps seniors tackle emergencies and life transitions with practical tools, a Red Cross-approved kit, and hands-on support. More than just supplies, it builds confidence and peace of mind, backed by a powerful local network of businesses, first responders, and aging services. Ninety percent of participants say they feel safer—and this win celebrates the community’s commitment to keeping older adults prepared, empowered, and connected.
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Browns QB Battle Heats Up
The Browns are betting big on Deshaun Watson to start the season, but Chad Johnson warns: if Watson struggles in the first six games, Shedeur Sanders could be waiting in the wings. With Watson’s massive contract on the line and a shaky record as starter, the pressure is on. Sanders, though young and raw, showed flashes of potential last year — but also costly mistakes. This could be the make-or-break moment for Cleveland’s QB future.
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Lorain County Jail Expansion Moves Forward
Lorain County’s jail advisory board just approved a massive, $540-bed jail project — a leap from the crumbling 1977 facility that’s straining under overcrowding and outdated systems. Sheriff’s team pushed hard, citing urgent needs for inmate safety, mental health care, and modern classification — but now the real battle begins: funding. Commissioners are eyeing a sales tax hike, with public hearings set for July 17th and 21st, aiming to put the proposal to voters this fall. The clock’s ticking — and convincing the public to pay for a future-proof jail is the next big hurdle.
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DeWine Commutes Death Sentence for Lott
After decades on death row, Gregory Lott, a 64-year-old man convicted of murder in 1987, has had his death sentence commuted to life without parole by Governor Mike DeWine — his first such decision. Lott, who has intellectual disability, no longer qualifies for execution under current Supreme Court standards, even though past rulings had blocked reconsideration. Prosecutors now support clemency, and the victim’s family opposes the death penalty. The governor’s order, quietly signed in May, follows a long legal battle and Ohio’s ongoing drug shortage delaying executions. The Parole Board had previously recommended commutation, citing both legal and moral gr...
Shirilla’s Last Legal Hope Denied
Mackenzie Shirilla’s last legal hope is gone—the Ohio Supreme Court has denied her final appeal, sealing her life sentence for the 2022 crash that killed her boyfriend and his friend. Despite claiming she blacked out due to a medical issue, the court saw her actions as deliberate and reckless, while prosecutors cited her elevated THC levels—even though she wasn’t charged with OVI. Her team blamed a filing glitch for the one-day delay in her appeal, but the court won’t budge. With no more appeals left, Shirilla’s conviction stands, and she’ll keep serving her sentence, elig...
Cleveland Hits Ozone Standard Thanks to Data Adjustments
Cleveland’s seven-county region has officially reached national ozone air quality standards, marking a major environmental milestone thanks to EPA adjustments that factored in Canadian wildfire smoke—a wild twist that nearly derailed the win. This “attainment” status clears the way for smoother business expansion with fewer regulatory hurdles, while still preserving progress toward cleaner air. It’s a testament to collaborative efforts and the flexibility built into the Clean Air Act to handle real-world pollution complexities.
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Ivybrook Academy Brings Curiosity-Driven Learning to Solon
A brand-new preschool, Ivybrook Academy, is set to open in Solon this summer, blending Montessori and Reggio Emilia methods to let kids lead their own learning—from 18 months to 5 years old. With summer camps launching July 20 and full-year classes starting August 17, this national network’s latest Ohio expansion was born from the owner’s personal quest for the best education for his daughters. Designed to spark curiosity, the school uses kids’ interests as the foundation for learning, offering themed camps like “It’s a Jungle” and “Storybook STEAM,” plus small classes with dedicated educators. Local families are already engaged, and the vision? To...
Luxury Lakefront Homes Coming to Geneva-on-the-Lake
Luxury lakefront living is coming to Geneva-on-the-Lake as 26 high-end homes launch on the shores of Lake Erie, each priced between $650K and $850K and spanning 2,000 to 3,000 square feet. The Villas at Water’s Edge, set to rise on three acres just east of The Lodge, include an infinity pool and clubhouse — all without the upkeep of yard work or snow plowing. After sitting vacant for over a decade, the land is now active, with early sales already made and construction slated to begin within a month. This major development promises to revitalize the area, boost village revenues, and could soon...
Senators Cross Party Lines on Social Security
Bernie Moreno and Elizabeth Warren, from opposite parties, are uniting to save Social Security, warning that without action, the system could collapse by 2032 with cuts exceeding 20%. Their plan? Raise the income cap for Social Security taxes so higher earners pay more — a move that could inject $3 trillion into the system and protect retirees’ vital monthly checks. While experts say it’s not a full fix, it’s a crucial bipartisan step that could buy time and prevent cuts — a lifeline for millions who depend on Social Security for survival.
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Summit County Program Helps Fathers Reconnect
In Summit County, Ohio, a groundbreaking program is empowering dads to reconnect with their roles as vital, present parents. Led by Jamahl Id-Deen of the Early Childhood Resource Center, the “24/7 Dad” initiative offers a free 12-hour course designed to equip fathers with tools, community, and confidence—whether navigating custody battles or simply rediscovering the joy of fatherhood. Fathers like Paris Thomas, juggling seven kids, credit the program with helping them find their way during tough times. With offices at Summit County Children Services and resources open to all dads in the county, this effort is a powerful beacon of hope...
FirstEnergy’s Reliability Shift Under Fire
FirstEnergy is pushing to rewrite Ohio’s power reliability rules, seeking more leeway to restore power and allow more outages — a move that could mean longer blackouts and more interruptions for customers of Cleveland Electric, Ohio Edison, and Toledo Edison. Citing tripled severe weather events and grid strain, the utility argues it needs flexibility — but communities like Lakewood are furious, citing over 60 major outages, spoiled food, and thousands in emergency costs. While FirstEnergy promises billions in grid upgrades by 2029, critics question whether relaxing standards is fair when customers are still suffering.
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Cleveland PD Seeks Help Identifying Suspects
Cleveland PD’s Fifth District is urgently seeking public help to identify suspects involved in an attempted grand theft auto and trespassing on East Fifty-ninth Street and Prosser Avenue. This isn’t a minor incident — it’s a serious vehicle theft attempt with major consequences for the owner. If you were in the area or recognize anyone involved, Detective Hornblower wants your tip — call 216-623-2587. Let’s help bring these suspects to justice.
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Cavaliers Sleepwalking Through NBA Shift
Cleveland’s front office is sleeping through the NBA’s seismic shifts as rivals like Miami, Boston, and Indiana make bold moves to chase championships, while the Cavaliers cling to their current roster despite a brutal playoff exit and mounting pressure. GM Koby Altman’s gamble on internal growth and a potential draft trade-down risks falling behind as the East heats up — with Giannis paired with Spoelstra, the Celtics still trading, and the Pacers upgrading, Cleveland’s snooze button could cost them everything.
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England vs Ghana World Cup Clash
England vs. Ghana in a must-watch World Cup clash you can stream for free—kickoff at 4 PM ET on FOX (with Spanish on Telemundo). England, riding high after a 4-2 win over Croatia and led by goal-scoring machine Harry Kane, seeks to end a 60-year trophy drought. Their qualifying campaign was flawless—undefeated, 22-0. But their defense has leaked goals, making this game critical for top group spot. Ghana, ranked 65th but dangerous in tournaments, stunned with a 1-0 opener thanks to Antoine Semenyo’s assist. This is only the second meeting between the nations, last a 1-1 draw in 201...
Muscle Resilience Secrets for Aging
Scientists at Ohio University have secured a $2.8 million NIH grant to unlock why muscles weaken with age—and how to reverse it. Focusing on two key proteins, HuR and MyBP-H, the team aims to boost muscle resilience and even mimic exercise benefits without physical activity. This research could lead to the first FDA-approved treatments for sarcopenia, helping millions of older adults maintain strength, mobility, and independence as the population ages. A multi-university collaboration is racing to decode muscle recovery at the molecular level, offering hope for a future where age-related muscle loss is no longer inevitable.
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Painesville Sues Over Trash Cart Fees
Painesville, Ohio is in legal showdown with Republic Services over $50-per-cart fees for trash pickup — a move the city calls a “giant money grab” as it switches waste haulers next week. Residents are confused and alarmed, many with automatic payments set up, while the city insists the carts were supposed to be free under the old contract. Republic claims the fees are valid, but Painesville is asking a judge to halt them until the lawsuit resolves — all while a new provider, Major Waste Disposal Services, prepares to roll in with weekly pickups, yard waste, and even a senior discount starting...
No-Bid Contract at Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool’s green glow and crumbling base reveal a scandal: a no-bid $1.7M contract went to an Ohio firm tied to J.J. Cafaro, a convicted political fixer with ties to Trump. Despite claims of innocence from both the White House and Cafaro, the connections—donations, proximity, and shady pasts—raise serious questions about who really pulls the strings in federal contracts.
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Elected Officials Seek Pay Hike
Stow City Council is proposing a major pay bump for its top elected officials—mayor, law director, and finance director—raising their salaries from $80K to $100K starting in 2028, a 23-24% jump after over a decade without a raise. While most council members agree the pay needs updating, they’re split on an automatic annual adjustment starting in 2029, which would be tied to either inflation or the highest union raise. Some fear this could widen the pay gap with city workers, while others argue elected officials deserve fair, inflation-adjusted raises like union workers. A potential compromise linking future raises only t...
Faith Groups Demand Bank Cut Prison Ties
Faith groups in Cleveland are launching a bold financial boycott against Citizens Bank, pledging to withdraw $1.3 million unless the bank cuts ties with private prison firms CoreCivic and GEO Group—companies that run immigration detention centers. Framed as a moral stand, the campaign demands a meeting with bank leadership and a firm commitment to end future financing of these companies, which have received over $2 billion in loans from Citizens Bank in recent years. With at least 18 deaths in ICE custody this year—up from 33 last year—the urgency is mounting. While Citizens Bank says it respects peaceful protest and will f...
Clubs and Sports Back with Fees
Streetsboro City Schools is reviving cut extracurriculars like chess, art, STEM, and choir — but with a twist: students now pay $50 per club. Middle and varsity sports are also returning, costing $300 per sport, as the district tries to balance student engagement with tight finances. After a failed levy attempt, the school board’s decision to reinstate programs hinges on family contributions, while officials stress ongoing budget shortfalls and seek community input to navigate the financial crunch.
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Morningstar Farms Recalls Plant-Based Items
Morningstar Farms is pulling two popular plant-based items—Plant Based Buffalo Chik’n Nuggets and Hot and Spicy Sausage Patties—due to possible plastic contamination. The recall covers the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Costa Rica, with specific UPC codes and best-by dates for each product. If you have these in your freezer, toss them and request a refund via phone, text, or email. For food safety questions, the USDA offers a hotline, chat, and email support. Stay safe and check your freezer.
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Mayflies Signal Lake Erie’s Recovery
Northeast Ohio’s skies are buzzing again with massive mayfly swarms—so thick they’re blanketing cars and lights near Lake Erie. While folks joke and dodge the bugs, scientists are cheering: these delicate insects thrive only in clean, oxygen-rich water, making their return a powerful sign of Lake Erie’s ecological recovery. After decades of pollution, their comeback proves conservation efforts are working, boosting fish populations and feeding birds along the shore. Yes, they’re messy and slippery—but this swarm? A win for nature.
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Geauga County Rejects Tax Exemptions
Geauga County commissioners are holding firm on rejecting new property tax exemptions for homeowners, despite internal division and pressure from residents. The move protects school districts and other public services from losing up to $3.3 million annually — money they say is critical for maintaining essential programs. While one commissioner initially voted “hard no” and still stands by it, another pushed for reconsideration under state law. Meanwhile, state lawmakers are eyeing permanent statewide exemptions, which could further strain local budgets. The standoff underscores a growing national dilemma: balancing homeowner relief with the need to fund vital public services.
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Ohio’s Data Center Power Crisis
Ohio races against a September deadline as PJM prepares a high-stakes power auction to meet surging demand from data centers. Without clear rules, costs could hit every household’s bill. House Democrats push for a dedicated rate class so tech giants pay their share—protecting residents and jobs. A failed bill over sales tax exemptions leaves lawmakers sidelined until after the election, forcing regulators to act fast—even as legal challenges loom. Beyond the bill, communities grapple with how to manage data center deals, warning against secrecy and overpromising. Ohio’s balancing act is urgent, complex, and costly if ignored...
Ella Langley Columbus Concert Guide
Ella Langley’s “Dandelion Tour” is hitting Columbus, Ohio, on September 25 at the Schottenstein Center — and tickets are flying fast. Don’t miss your chance to see the rising country star live, with Kameron Marlowe and Laci Kaye Booth opening the show. Artist presale starts June 25 at 10 AM local time, followed by general sale the next day — snag floor and lower bowl seats before they vanish. If you miss the sale, check verified resale sites like Vivid Seats (100% buyer guarantee + $20 off with code CLEVELAND20), SeatGeek (new user $5 off with code TAKE5), or TicketNetwork (15% off with code TIXDEAL15). This Columbus date is a ma...
RTA Considers Sales Tax Hike for Future
The RTA is poised to ask voters to approve a sales tax hike for the first time in eight years, aiming to fix deep financial woes and preserve essential transit services. A quarter- or half-percent increase could prevent drastic cuts like slashing bus routes and limiting rail, which activists warn would hurt jobs, kids’ commutes, and elderly residents. With a decision due by August 8th and a packed November ballot ahead, the CEO argues this isn’t just about transit—it’s a 50-year investment in Cleveland’s mobility and future.
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Cop Saves Woman From House Fire
A Toledo cop charges into a raging house fire to rescue a woman clinging to her walker—telling her to drop it so he could carry her out before flames took her. After getting her safe, he spots her brother still inside and calls in firefighters to save him too. Body cam footage captures her heartfelt thanks—proof that in the worst moments, heroes show up.
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Can Browns Really Hit 10 Wins
The Browns hitting ten wins this season feels almost impossible—but the conversation is serious. Elite QB play is non-negotiable, especially with starting QB uncertainty and accuracy concerns. Yet some argue the defense is the real foundation: if they’re in playoff contention, it’s likely because the defense is clicking. New defensive coordinator, promising talent like Jared Verse, but no proven anchor yet. Bottom line? Nine wins might be the ceiling—but even debating ten feels like progress for a franchise starved for success.
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