Unable to perform for live audiences during the early pandemic, Sinkovic brought together a diverse group of seasoned local musicians and began posting performance videos to YouTube. The videos quickly resonated, drawing over a million views and building a loyal international following, including a strong fan base in Manila, Philippines. “This group should be playing theatres all over Ohio. We are very big in Manila Philippines trying to tour there in 2026,” he said.

Minner first gained national attention as a softball player at the University of Missouri, where she helped lead her team to the 2009 Women’s College World Series. Recognized as a Team Offensive MVP and All-American nominee, she built a reputation as one of the program’s most reliable hitters.

A survivor of childhood abuse, addiction, and emotional suppression, Baker spent much of her adult life appearing to function “normally” while silently carrying the weight of her trauma. It wasn’t until a conversation with her then 18-year-old son in September 2021 that she began to confront the emotional exhaustion of constantly striving to be perfect. That moment served as the catalyst for a year-long journey into deep healing, intuitive exploration, and ultimately, a compl

Kimberly Tramsak, who lost her daughter Gracie Ann Bernice Tramsak-Kolat to stillbirth at 35 weeks, described the event as profoundly healing. “It’s just nice being together with other people that have gone through what you have went through,” Tramsak said. “Being through any loss is hard, but knowing that you’re going to deliver a baby that is not going to come out crying, that is not something that you’re going to look forward to. A lot of people say ‘God created another an

In a moving and revealing conversation, Cleveland 13 reporter Denise Zarrella spoke about the everyday realities of raising a child with special needs while juggling a career, family, and self-care. The discussion, featured in the first episode of Your Purpose, Your Pride, Your Power: A Journey to Authenticity, offered an unfiltered look at Zarrella’s life as a mother, journalist, realtor, and advocate.

Patrolman Gedeon learned during several conversations with the man that he had recently secured a job at a restaurant on Route 615 in Mentor and was walking over 90 minutes each way to get there. The man, who had previously interacted with the department, told the officer he hoped to eventually purchase a bike to make his commute easier.

On May 17, Megan Cutright and Layla Carter of Elyria will walk across the same stage, earning degrees from Lorain County Community College in a shared milestone that highlights their unbreakable bond. Megan, 38, will graduate with an associate of applied science in radiologic technology, while her daughter Layla, 17, will receive both her high school diploma from Elyria High School and an associate of arts degree through the college’s Early College High School program.

A free, all-ages concert featuring Cleveland native LaBronn Conner Jr. is set to electrify the Foundation Room at House of Blues on May 16, 2025, from 9 to 11 p.m. The 23-year-old singer-songwriter, known for his fusion of blues, rock, and gospel, aims to deliver a performance reminiscent of the late 1960s counterculture era.

Each Spotlight feature is selected through a combination of editorial review and public input. Cleveland 13 News actively encourages residents to reach out with story ideas, nominate inspiring individuals, and highlight moments or movements that deserve broader recognition. The series has no boundaries in content, featuring everything from youth accomplishments and small business successes to cultural events, local talent, and acts of service.

Ballet Excel Ohio, one of the nation's pioneering youth ballet companies, will celebrate its 50th anniversary this summer with a new production of Aladdin, choreographed by Erich Yetter. The production will be staged at the Akron Civic Theatre from August 4 to 16.

J’nay Blackwell, a Cleveland-based author and mother, has published her first children’s book inspired by her daughter’s experience with autism, aiming to offer representation and empowerment to children with similar journeys. The book, Journey’s Jewels: Journey and the Diamond of Self-Love, introduces readers to a six-year-old Black girl named Journey who learns to celebrate her neurodiversity through magical life lessons.

Celebrated violinist, composer, and educator Steven Greenman has been tasked with the important role of "The Fiddler" in Cleveland Play House's production of Fiddler on the Roof at Playhouse Square’s Allen Theatre, with performances extended through May 25. Greenman announced his involvement on social media, noting, "Performing this music in the pit completes the Fiddler cycle for me," referencing his extensive history with the iconic musical, including onstage performances a

Supporters are invited to participate in a virtual silent auction featuring items from local vendors, including artwork, jewelry, gift baskets, and restaurant packages. Participants may also choose to donate directly by using the "Donate or Bid" button on the event homepage. All proceeds will be donated to the World Central Kitchen (WCK.org) operating in Gaza, whose mission statement reads, "Using the power of food to nourish communities and strengthen economies in times of c