The United States has just turned 249 and already we’re looking forward to next year, to her semiquincentennial, the formal name for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The big name befits a big party and Ohio has hundreds of events planned throughout the next 12 months. There will be themed road trips, movies, murals and tree plantings, all meant to connect history to the modern age. But will Americans be in the mood to celebrate? The current States feel more divided than united, with partisan politics destroying joyful cohesion. Of course, conflict is inherent in American history. And historians are hoping to find common ground in reflecting on the nation’s founding documents, like the Declaration of Independence. — Laura |
Overnight Scores and Weather |
Guardians vs. Detroit Tigers: Guardians’ losing streak hits 10 as Tigers complete sweep by handing Cleveland a 7-2 defeat Northeast Ohio weather forecast: Warm, chance of thunderstorms |
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This barn, painted by Scott Hagan, is one of five that will be painted to celebrate Ohio's role in U.S. history as part of the country's semiquincentennial in 2026. It's located on U.S. 20 just west of Fremont in Sandusky County. (Susan Glaser, cleveland.com) |
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Semiquincentennial: As we approach 250 years as a nation, Sabrina Eaton talks to historians about marking the anniversary and Susan Glaser details Ohio’s plans to celebrate. Shoreway makeover: Cross-town commuters have been buzzing through downtown on the Shoreway for 85 years. But after years of planning, the city intends to replace more than half-a-mile with a four-lane boulevard with traffic lights at multiple intersections, while adding a land bridge to the lake. Rich Exner reports some City Council members say this will cause big problems. 'Superman': James Gunn’s “Superman” is not just a reboot of one of the most beloved superheroes of all time. It’s a postcard of Cleveland, its art deco architecture and its downtown landmarks that make up Metropolis. “We cast cities in the same way we cast actors,” Gunn tells Joey Morona. In this age of digital effects, the result is more screen time than locals might expect. Today in Ohio: Cleveland City Council is looking to rewrite the rules for how it spends tax dollars from casinos in neighborhoods. The goal? Resolve ongoing frustrations over how strict and slow they feel these dollars have become. We’re talking about whether the changes are smart or problematic on Today in Ohio, cleveland.com’s daily half-hour news podcast. |
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Moreno interests: Bernie Moreno, who made his fortune in luxury car dealerships, said he’d sold all the companies he’d run to avoid conflict of interest accusations. Yet since taking office six months ago, Moreno — whose son is building a Mercedes dealership outside of Columbus — has focused much of his legislative attention on boosting the car industry, reports Sabrina Eaton. Is there an ethical question inherent in Moreno’s past and present interests? Equal Rights: Mary Frances McGowan reports on Ohio's proposed Equal Rights Amendment clearing its first legal hurdle. Pelzer highlights the comprehensive anti-discrimination protections proposed for the 2026 ballot. Budget vetoes: Gov. Mike DeWine vetoed 67 items in the state budget, including property tax reforms and library book restrictions. Anna Staver reports on whether Republican lawmakers will override these vetoes. Ramaswamy fundraising: The Today in Ohio podcast highlights Vivek Ramaswamy's stunning fundraising achievement, raising $9.7 million in just four months for his Ohio gubernatorial campaign. Despite his massive war chest, Ramaswamy remains largely unknown to Ohio voters. U.S. attorney: President Trump has nominated David Toepfer as a potential U.S. attorney for Cleveland's Northern District. The Today in Ohio podcast hosts discuss how this comes after years without a full-time confirmed leader, potentially bringing stability to the federal prosecutor's office. Casino revenue: Cleveland City Council is seeking to modify rules for spending casino tax revenues, aiming to make the process more flexible. Today in Ohio discusses that council members want to ease restrictions on how the approximately $11 million annual funds can be used. |
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Ship goo: A ship that docked in Cleveland last summer harbored what scientists believe was a previously unknown form of life. Peter Krouse reports the revelation occurred after a research vessel monitoring harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie began having mechanical issues. Demographics shift: Cleveland and Akron metro areas now have more seniors than children, joining a growing national trend of population aging. Rich Exner reports that 112 of 387 U.S. metro areas now have more older adults than children. Lanternfly control: Cleveland Metroparks are preparing to combat the growing spotted lanternfly population with an eco-friendly "Big Squish" event in August. Peter Krouse reports that the invasive insects are expected to be particularly numerous this year. Child welfare: Ohio's new state budget restores funding for child welfare services, allocating $55 million to the Child Protection Allocation fund. Kaitlin Durbin highlights potential concerns about future levy restrictions hidden in the budget's fine print. Revolutionary veterans: Ohio seeks public help to document the graves of approximately 7,000 Revolutionary War veterans buried in the state. Susan Glaser writes about the project's goal to create a comprehensive database before the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Ursuline: Gannon University officially took control of Ursuline College this week, with Laura Hancock reporting on the merger driven by declining student enrollment and the need for financial stability. The transition will be completed by 2026, creating a new Ursuline College Campus of Gannon University. Bus tours: Lorain County Metro Parks has lowered the age requirement for free senior bus tours from 65 to 55, offering residents guided tours of the county's natural destinations, reports Hannah Drown. CAK funding: The Akron-Canton Airport will receive a $250,000 ODOT grant to build a hangar access road as part of a $30 million West Side Hangar Development project. Megan Becka reports the funding will support airport operations and economic development. EPA grants: The U.S. EPA is providing $3.7 million in grants to help farmers manage nutrient runoff into Lake Erie's Western Basin. Peter Krouse reports the funding aims to reduce phosphorus entering the Maumee River and develop better conservation methods. |
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Home prices: Cleveland remains one of the most affordable housing markets in the U.S., with a median home price of $250,000 in May 2025. Home sales increased by nearly 14% compared to April, with growing inventory and stable pricing. |
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Civil rights: Medina County Prosecutor Forrest Thompson is taking back the case of two off-duty police officers who are accused of attacking a trucker who they mistakenly believed was an illegal immigrant. Adam Ferrise reports Thompson said he was miffed that federal prosecutors have appeared to pass on filing charges in the case that he called “a clear-cut civil rights violation.” Murder case: Gregory Moore, a former divorce attorney, has posted a $2 million bond after being charged in the 2013 murder of his client, Aliza Sherman. David Gambino reports Moore was indicted on charges of aggravated murder, kidnapping and conspiracy, and is set to stand trial in March 2026. Fatal shooting: One person is dead and five others were wounded in a shooting early Saturday morning at Buckeye Plaza on the city’s East Side, according to Cleveland police. Police said the crime scene spanned several blocks, Ryan Cohick reports. Euclid Beach shooting: A shooting at Euclid Beach left one person dead and another injured early Thursday morning, Olivia Mitchell reports. Bank fraud: A Lorain bank teller is accused of stealing approximately $75,000 from eight customers' accounts by forging withdrawal slips. Adam Ferrise reports Denice James has been indicted on multiple fraud and identity theft charges. |
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Ask Yadi: A friend consistently attends group potlucks without contributing, causing frustration. Yadi Rodriguez highlights the dilemma, suggesting the group discuss expectations or consider whether to continue inviting her. Siren's Curse: Cedar Point's new Siren's Curse roller coaster experienced two technical difficulties in its first week. Adam Ferrise reports the 160-foot ride stalled twice, with riders briefly stuck at a 90-degree angle, though no injuries occurred. Special feast: The Friar's Table in downtown Cleveland will host a special five-course wine-pairing dinner Friday celebrating the Feast of St. Benedict. Marc Bona writes about the event featuring communal seating and a menu inspired by monastic traditions. Happy Hour: Poppy's Larchmere location offers a charming garden-inspired happy hour with unique appetizers and cocktails. Paris Wolfe and Alex Darus taste the happy hour menu in the restaurant's outdoor patio featuring raised garden beds and a cozy atmosphere. Superman auction: Christopher Reeve's original "Superman" flying costume from the 1978 film is up for auction, with an estimated value of $126,000 to $158,000. Marc Bona reports on the iconic costume's historical significance and upcoming sale. Trouble Notes: The Trouble Notes, a world folk fusion band, brings their unique musical storytelling to Negative Space Cleveland. Peter Chakerian writes about the band's international influences and performance style. Off the Vine: Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens will host "Off the Vine" food and wine event on July 25, featuring tapas-style appetizers, live music and wine sampling. Marc Bona highlights the evening's culinary offerings and event details. House of the Week: A 27-acre Waite Hill property offers an English country-style estate with a main house, two guest cottages and extensive amenities. Joey Morona highlights the property's unique features and potential for luxury living. |
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Brook Park police seek man wanted for waving handgun during two separate road-rage incidents Read more Driver charged with OVI in I-90 rollover crash in Westlake Read more Richmond Heights Mayor Kim Thomas will work with other leaders from state as part of 2025 Ohio Public Leadership Academy Read more Westlake Porter Public Library’s annual STEAM week returns July 14-18 Read more Grohe named program director of CASA of Medina County Read more |
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