🎙️ Drones, Data Centers, and the Battle Over Ohio’s Future

Robert and Tom covered a lot of ground in Show #51, jumping from global tensions with Iran to some serious debates unfolding right here in Ohio. The episode dives into the state’s new drone program for first responders, school swatting incidents, the growing fight over data centers and their costs, and whether Ohio is becoming one of the country’s most hostile states for LGBTQ residents. Along the way, they hit the possible end of the I-X Center, new fraud investigations, and wrapped things up with a few genuinely good developments happening around the region.

Before diving into the news, Robert and Tom had to wrestle with a few technical gremlins at the start of the show — so bear with us on that. Maybe it had something to do with Robert’s extracurricular activities the night before… We’ll let the listeners decide. The show also opened with a shoutout and well wishes for John C. Dvorak from No Agenda, the “greatest podcast in the universe,” who announced on last Thursday’s show that he needed a double bypass surgery. The surgery has since taken place, and everyone here at Crooked River Cast is sending prayers and wishing him a speedy recovery.

🌍 Iran Update & Global Tensions

The show opened with a look at the latest escalation in the conflict involving Iran. Statements from Donald Trump about “unconditional surrender” highlight just how intense the rhetoric around the conflict has become. Robert and Tom also looked at the broader implications of continued targeted strikes and what that might mean for stability in the region.

Sources:
🔗: Iran Update Evening Special Report, March 5, 2026 – From UnderstandingWar.org
🔗: Trump: There will be ‘no deal’ to end the war in Iran, except for their ‘UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER’
🔗: Mamdani Getting Nervous As Trump Keeps Assassinating Muslim Dictators | Babylon Bee

🚁 Ohio Launches First Statewide Drone Program

Ohio is officially rolling out the nation’s first statewide drone program for first responders, something state officials say will improve emergency response and coordination during disasters.

Supporters argue it’s a major technological leap for police, fire, and rescue operations. Critics are already raising questions about privacy, oversight, and whether Ohio has clear guardrails for how this technology will be used long-term.

Source:
🔗: Ohio launches nation’s first statewide drone program for first responders

🚨 Schools Across Ohio Hit With Swatting Threats

Several Ohio schools were placed on lockdown after receiving bomb threats in what appears to be a wave of swatting incidents. These false emergency calls force major police responses and disrupt entire school districts.

Robert and Tom discussed the growing trend of these hoaxes nationwide and the real cost they impose on communities, law enforcement resources, and student safety.

Sources:
🔗: Police called to multiple central Ohio schools after alleged bomb threats
🔗: Several Ohio schools placed under lockdown after threat

🐀 Critter Corner: The Data Center Debate

Data centers are quickly becoming one of the biggest infrastructure debates in Ohio. Lawmakers are now introducing multiple bills that could determine how these facilities impact residents, power grids, taxes, and environmental policy.

One proposal would shield Ohioans from potential electric grid costs tied to large data centers. Another bill would create a commission to study their long-term impact. Meanwhile, state lawmakers are also moving to override Governor DeWine’s veto that would restore a sales tax break for data centers.

Add concerns about air pollution and wastewater discharge to the mix, and you’ve got a policy debate that’s just getting started.

Sources:
🔗: Reps. David Thomas, Tristan Rader introduce bill to shield Ohioans from data center-driven grid costs
🔗: Reps. Gary Click, Kellie Deeter propose new commission to study data center impacts
🔗: Ohio GOP leaders plan override of DeWine’s veto restoring data center tax break
🔗: Data centers’ air pollution associated with lung issues: Report
🔗: Ohio EPA reviewing draft permit to authorize limited increase in data center wastewater discharge

🚛 More Fraud Investigations in Ohio?

New investigations suggest potential fraud issues expanding into industries like trucking and healthcare. The conversation focused on how these schemes operate and whether Ohio regulators are keeping up with increasingly complex fraud networks.

Source:
🔗: FRONTLINES TPUSA (@FrontlinesTPUSA)

🏳️‍🌈 Ohio Ranks High in Anti-LGBTQ Incidents

A recent report places Ohio among the states with the highest number of reported anti-LGBTQ incidents last year. Robert and Tom examined what counts as a hate crime, how those statistics are gathered, and why the issue continues to be politically divisive.

Sources:
🔗: Ohio among states with most ‘anti-LGBTQ incidents’ last year
🔗: What is a hate crime – @3tarddownunder on X

🏟️ The I-X Center’s Uncertain Future

For decades, Cleveland’s I-X Center has hosted everything from car shows to conventions. But the facility recently announced what may be its final event.

Then again… maybe not. A potential deal involving the venue reportedly fell apart, leaving the future of this iconic Cleveland landmark very much up in the air.

Sources:
🔗: I-X Center announces its final show
🔗: I-X Center deal falls apart, leaving future uncertain for historic event space

🌟 Good Things

🎸 Rock and Roll Land Project Moving Forward

The Rock and Roll Land project is taking shape in Northeast Ohio. The development aims to build a music-themed district that celebrates Cleveland’s deep connection to rock history while boosting economic development around the lakefront.

Source:
🔗: Bedrock splits Rock & Roll Land project – NEOtrans

🥤 Ohio Considers Limiting Soda Purchases With SNAP

Ohio is exploring a proposal to restrict soda purchases using SNAP benefits. Supporters say it could promote healthier food choices, while critics argue it may be government overreach.

Regardless of where people land on the policy debate, it’s another example of how states are experimenting with new approaches to public health.

Source:
🔗: No pop for SNAP recipients?

🎤 Political Drama: Crockett vs. Crenshaw

Political sparks flew this week as a heated exchange between Representatives Jasmine Crockett and Dan Crenshaw grabbed headlines. It’s the kind of Washington drama that reminds everyone politics can still deliver a few viral moments. Hey guys, don’t forget Al Greene is gone as well.

Source:
🔗: Crenshaw and Crockett exchange reactions

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