Ohio Governor Race

Property Taxes, Iran Talks, and Ohio’s Surveillance Debate — Crooked River Cast Show 56 🎙

Robert kicked off the show by declaring it “1954 Gold Top Month” on his calendar and immediately put Tom on the spot: How much are those things worth anyway? Tom didn’t hesitate—“Too much.” Turns out, he wasn’t wrong. A quick Google search shows pristine 1954 Gibson Les Paul Gold Tops can fetch anywhere from $50,000 to $70,000+ if they’re clean and original. So with that reality check out of the way, the guys decided it was time to focus on what we actually came for—and stop dreaming about things we can’t afford… like vintage guitars, or apparently, homes just outside of Columbus. Robert recently found that out firsthand after pricing out an Airbnb for a quick family trip. Sticker shock is alive and well in Ohio. Robert and Tom covered a packed slate this week—ranging from space exploration and international diplomacy to the bread-and-butter issues hitting Ohio taxpayers right now. From levy fatigue and property tax debates to surveillance cameras and fracking on public land, Show 56 keeps the focus where it belongs: on the policies shaping daily life across the state. And, as always, they wrapped things up with a couple of genuinely good economic wins for Ohio.

🚀 Artemis II Makes a Splash

NASA’s Artemis II mission wrapped up a dramatic journey around the moon, but the conversation quickly turned into a bigger question the guys couldn’t ignore: Did we really go to the moon the first time—and how did so much original data get lost?

Robert and Tom admitted they’re still on the fence. Between missing telemetry tapes, outdated technology, and decades-old documentation gaps, there are enough loose ends to make people raise an eyebrow. That said, they also agreed this latest mission appears to be the real deal—and hopefully a sign that modern space exploration is more transparent, better documented, and harder to question.

Source:
🔗: Artemis II’s record-breaking journey around the moon ends with dramatic splashdown

🌍 Iran Talks Put Ohio’s VP on the Global Stage

VP JD Vance speaks to reporters before boarding Air Force Two to return to Washington, in Budapest, Hungary, April 8, 2026. Photo: JONATHAN ERNST / AFP / Getty Images

Vice President JD Vance heading overseas for Iran negotiations shows just how quickly national security issues can intersect. The guys spent time digging into what they were hearing from the Iranian side of the negotiations—and asking the same question a lot of Americans are asking right now: What are we supposed to believe?

There’s talk of ceasefires and peace negotiations, but then reports surface that missiles are still flying. Even as diplomats meet at the table, Israel has continued strikes on Hezbollah targets, putting pressure on an already fragile truce and raising doubts about whether anyone is truly committed to stopping the fighting. 

Robert and Tom weren’t buying the neat, tidy version of events being presented. Their takeaway was simple: when both sides claim victory, blame each other, and keep fighting at the same time, it’s hard to trust the story we’re being fed. The situation feels less like peace talks—and more like a pause button that could be released at any moment. politics. The conversation highlighted the stakes involved when diplomacy meets global instability—and how Ohio leaders are increasingly visible on the world stage.

Source:
🔗: Vice President JD Vance Heads To Pakistan To Lead Iran Peace Talks | Newsradio WTAM 1100

🏛 Husted’s New Role in Washington

U.S. Senator Jon Husted and U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin. U.S. Senator Jon Husted/Facebook

Ohio’s Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted picked up a powerful new assignment on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee. That’s a big deal when it comes to federal funding and influence—and a reminder that political positioning today often shapes tomorrow’s elections. Ohio’s Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted picked up a new assignment on the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee—a position that carries real influence when it comes to federal spending and priorities. But the conversation didn’t stop at the headline.

Robert played a clip from the Tim Pool Cast featuring Luke Rudkowski and Matt Gaetz discussing how lawmakers often end up on certain committees—and how political pressure, leadership dynamics, and party strategy can shape those assignments behind the scenes. It sparked a thoughtful point about how power actually works in government, not just how it looks on paper.

And yes, credit where it’s due—it was a solid discussion. Unfortunately, the guys didn’t share the link in the show notes, but the takeaway stuck: Committee assignments aren’t always random, and influence in Washington is rarely accidental.

Source:
🔗: Husted Appointed to U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee | Ohio | theohiopressnetwork.com

💡 Big Ideas, Few Details in the Governor’s Race

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton holds a roundtable at the Bottoms Up coffeehouse in Columbus to talk about affordability. Jo Ingles - Statehouse News Bureau

Dr. Amy Acton rolled out her affordability platform, and one line jumped out immediately—cutting taxes. Robert and Tom couldn’t help but laugh a little at that moment. Because when a Democratic candidate starts talking about tax cuts, it starts to sound an awful lot like MAGA talking points.

Hey, if both parties want to cut taxes, most Ohioans are probably thinking the same thing: LET’S GO!

But Acton’s plan goes beyond taxes. As a 2026 gubernatorial candidate, she’s also pledged to repeal key parts of the controversial House Bill 6—the law tied to the state’s largest corruption scandal. Her “ActOn Costs Agenda” focuses on restoring energy efficiency programs, demand response incentives, and renewable energy standards that were scaled back under the original 2019 legislation. The big question now isn’t whether the ideas sound good—it’s how they’d be funded and whether voters will see the details before Election Day.

Source:
🔗: Ohio governor race: Acton releases lots of affordability ideas, but few specifics on funding them

🗳 Secretary of State Race Heats Up

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Four candidates for the new chief elections officer will be on Ohio's May primary ballot. The Democratic candidates are Leukemia Doctor Bryan Hambley and former Ohio House Minority Leader Allison Russo. The Republicans are Treasurer Robert Sprague and Air Force Veteran Marcell Strbich.

The race to oversee Ohio’s elections is already taking shape, with multiple candidates entering the field. It’s one of those offices that doesn’t always get attention—until election season rolls around and suddenly everyone cares. This segment was brought to us courtesy of reporter Morgan Trau, who released individual interviews with the four candidates in the race for Ohio Secretary of State—Hambley, Russo, Sprague, and Strbich. The interviews gave voters a chance to hear directly from the people who want to oversee Ohio’s elections, which is always a good thing.

But Robert and Tom noticed something else, too. The video package felt a little… selectively edited. Some answers were highlighted, others trimmed down, and the overall framing left the impression that the story leaned in a particular direction. Whether intentional or not, it raised the bigger issue of media trust and how narratives can be shaped in the editing room.

So yes—thanks, Morgan, for putting the candidates out there. Just remember, in politics and media alike, how the story is told can matter just as much as the story itself.

Source:
🔗: They’re running for Ohio secretary of state. Get to know the candidates.

🏠 Can Ohio Live Without Property Taxes?

The idea of eliminating property taxes keeps gaining traction among frustrated homeowners—and Robert and Tom made their position clear: the system is broken. Instead of real reform, leaders keep offering temporary fixes that feel more like band-aids than solutions.

Ohioans aren’t just asking for relief anymore—they’re asking for a system that actually makes sense.

Source:
🔗: Ohio property tax: Will Ohio abolish property taxes?

🏫 Levy Season Gets a New Twist

School funding debates are back, but Parma City Schools is trying something the district has never done before—offering to eliminate three property tax levies, but only if voters approve a 1.75% earned income tax. It’s a bold move and a big trade-off, shifting how schools get funded and who ultimately pays.

Hey Parma listeners, this one directly affects you. What are your thoughts? Send us an email at crookedrivercast@gmail.com—we want to hear where you stand.

Sources:
🔗: Parma City Schools to eliminate property tax levies if voters approve income tax
🔗: Stakes are high for some Northeast Ohio school districts with levies on the May ballot

🎓 Families Blindsided by College Savings Closure

Parents were caught off guard when a county-run college savings program suddenly shut down, leaving families scrambling for answers about what happens to their money. Communication was clearly lacking—and frustration followed fast.

Robert went on a full rant about this one, and honestly, it’s worth listening to. Tom, on the other hand, chalked it up to a slow news day.

Source:
🔗: Parents blindsided after Cuyahoga County college savings program closure leaves funds in question

⚖️ Ohio Pushes to Resume Executions

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost is again calling for the state to resume executions, saying a years-long pause has stalled justice for victims and their families.

The state’s attorney general is renewing calls to restart executions after years of delays. Supporters argue justice is being stalled, while critics continue raising concerns about methods and legal challenges. Either way, this debate isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

And fair warning to listeners—Robert plays a clip during this segment, and let’s just say the vocal fry is strong on this one… yikes.

Sources:
🔗: Ohio AG renews push to resume executions in latest Capital Crimes Report
🔗: Ohio’s top cop: Stalled executions are ‘mockery of the justice system’ | Ideastream Public Media

🚔 ICE Lawsuit Raises Legal Questions

A new lawsuit claims federal immigration agents are making arrests without warrants in Ohio, raising serious legal and constitutional questions. Robert and Tom highlighted the broader tension between enforcing immigration laws and protecting individual rights—a debate that isn’t going away anytime soon.

At the same time, the guys agreed there has to be a happy medium. Law enforcement officers doing their jobs should be protected, especially with reports of doxing and individuals attempting to threaten officers and their families. Disagreement over policy is one thing—but targeting people personally crosses a line.

Source:
🔗: Lawsuit claims ICE agents are illegally arresting Ohio immigrants without warrants

🌊 Gorge Dam Removal Moves Forward

The long-discussed removal of the Gorge Dam is gaining momentum after years of planning, and one key detail stood out to the guys—there’s actually a natural waterfall underneath the dam that’s been hidden for decades. The EPA has hired a contractor to begin the slow but necessary process of removing nearly a century’s worth of sediment sitting behind the structure before anything can be taken down.

But the conversation quickly shifted to what comes next. While the goal is environmental cleanup, there’s also talk about developing the surrounding area with hotels and restaurants. Robert and Tom couldn’t help but question that part of the plan—we sure need more hotels and restaurants… said no one ever.

Sources:
🔗: Gorge Dam removal highlight for Summit Metro Parks in 2025
▶️ YouTube: Gorge Dam could be torn down following 2-year dredging phase

⛽ Fracking Expands on Public Land

Ohio officials have approved fracking rights beneath more than 8,500 acres of public land, including areas within Salt Fork State Park and the Egypt Valley Wildlife Area in eastern Ohio. The decision allows energy companies to lease underground mineral rights and potentially drill horizontally from nearby private land, with the state receiving upfront payments and a share of future revenue that can be used to support park and wildlife operations.

The move has drawn strong reactions from both sides. Supporters argue it will generate significant funding for public lands and strengthen domestic energy production. At the same time, opponents raise concerns about environmental risks and the use of conservation land for fossil fuel development. No drilling begins immediately, but the approvals open the door for future extraction activity.

Source:
🔗: More Than 8,500 Acres of Ohio’s Public Land Approved for Fracking

📷 Flock Cameras and the Surveillance Debate

A Flock license plate reader. Roughly 100 cameras, known as ALPRs, are installed throughout Cleveland. Credit: DeFlock

Automated license plate reader systems—often called Flock cameras—are spreading across Ohio communities. Supporters say they help solve crimes. Critics worry about privacy and government overreach. Expect this conversation to keep growing. The op-ed urges Northeast Ohio officials to reject Flock license plate reader systems, arguing the technology could help federal authorities track activists and immigrants. Critics say the argument leans heavily on political assumptions—particularly claims about the Trump administration—without clear evidence of misuse locally, and overlooks the role these systems can play in solving crimes and improving public safety.

Source:
🔗: Op-Ed: Northeast Ohio Officials Must Protect Residents and Reject Flock

🚨 Akron’s New Police Policy

AKRON, Ohio — A new Public Order Policy has been announced for the Akron Police Department, which takes effect immediately. “The policy sets clear guidelines for how officers manage demonstrations and large gatherings and focuses on protecting the constitutional rights of Akron citizens, prioritizing de‑escalation and dialogue, and preserving public safety,” according to a press release from Akron Mayor Shammas Malik and Akron Police Chief Brian Harding.

Under the leadership of Mayor Shammas Iqbal Qammar Malik, Akron adopted a new “Public Order Policy” that imposes stricter limits on how police respond to protests, including tighter rules on arrests and the use of crowd-control tools such as tear gas. Officers are now required to wear visible identification and body cameras during demonstrations. The changes stem from legal challenges and criticism of police conduct during past protests, with supporters calling it a civil rights measure and critics arguing it could further restrict law enforcement’s ability to maintain order.

Source:
🔗: Akron announces new Public Order Policy: Here’s what it means

🌟 Good Things

🏭 Whirlpool Chooses Ohio for Expansion

Whirlpool's new plant in Perrysburg, Ohio, will employ 150 people. (Whirlpool Corp.)

A major investment from Whirlpool means new jobs and renewed confidence in Ohio’s manufacturing base. It’s the kind of economic development story communities love to see. Now let’s hope these are good-paying jobs—because that’s the only way they’ll actually get filled.

Source:
🔗: Whirlpool plans $60M Perrysburg facility, up to 150 jobs | wtol.com

🛩 Drone Manufacturing Takes Off in Ohio

A model of Anduril Industries' YFQ-44 Fury Collaborative Combat Aircraft at the company's Arsenal-1 factory in Ohio, March 19, 2026. Photo by Chris Gordon/Air & Space Forces Magazine.

Defense tech company Anduril is ramping up production of autonomous drones in the state as part of a $1 billion investment, bringing high-tech jobs and reinforcing Ohio’s growing role in advanced manufacturing. It’s a big swing for the region and a sign that serious defense and tech dollars are landing here.

One thing the guys couldn’t ignore—the drone design itself. Did they make it look like a shark on purpose? Because once you see it, you can’t unsee it. Maybe they missed a golden marketing opportunity by not leaning all the way in with the teeth and branding—but either way, it looked pretty cool. And even cooler, Robert was actually at the facility, getting a firsthand look at the operation. So cool.

Source:
🔗: Anduril begins production of autonomous military drones amid tech and workforce expansion | 10tv.com

Having fun with AI and made the drone look more like a shark, as it should be.

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Crooked River Cast Show 49

🎙️ Tariffs, Tax Talk, DEI Debates & Ohio Politics Getting Wild

Robert and Tom covered a packed slate this episode — from national headlines spilling into Ohio politics to local controversies that just keep getting louder. The guys broke down tariff drama, Democrats making strategic moves, political money questions, education fights, and plenty of Ohio-specific storylines — all with the sharp, no-nonsense commentary listeners expect from Crooked River Cast.

🇺🇸 Tariffs, Politics & The National Stage

Robert and Tom kicked off the show breaking down President Trump taking a temporary hit on tariffs — but they made it clear: this doesn’t look like a defeat, it looks like a pause. The expectation? These measures could come roaring back depending on what happens next.

Then came the part that really lit the fuse — the courts. The guys didn’t mince words, saying several left-leaning Supreme Court justices seriously dropped the ball on this one, and that decisions like this don’t just stay inside Washington — they hit Americans directly in jobs, prices, and long-term economic stability.

They also zeroed in on Democrats choosing to skip the State of the Union, arguing the move may have backfired by handing Trump even more attention and control of the narrative. Would anyone miss them?

Love it or hate it, this segment pulled no punches — and that’s exactly why people are talking.

Source:
🔗: ‘We have alternatives’: Trump vows to reimpose tariffs after SCOTUS ruling
🔗: Dozens of Democrats plan to skip Trump’s State of the Union as protests form

💰 Ohio Power Players Under the Microscope

Ohio’s richest man — Les Wexner — came up as Robert and Tom dug into questions about donations and renewed scrutiny surrounding old connections. The conversation stayed focused on transparency and accountability, asking who’s funding what and why it matters as political seasons heat up.

Source:
🔗: Who has Les Wexner donated to?
🔗: U.S. House Democrats accuse Les Wexner of lying about Epstein ties

🗳️ Ohio Governor’s Race: Big Money, Few Details

The race for governor is already shaping up to be one of the most expensive in state history. Robert and Tom pointed out how tax cuts are getting tossed around by candidates — but specifics are still thin. Plenty of messaging, not much difference yet, just a heavy price tag on campaign funding.

Source:
🔗: Leading candidates for Ohio governor talking about tax cuts, but few specifics so far
🔗: Ohio governor’s race set to become most expensive in state history

🎓 DEI Debates Continue at Ohio Universities

Despite state-level pushback, undercover videos suggest some universities are still pushing DEI-related initiatives. The guys broke down the broader culture war angle and asked whether policy changes are actually changing campus behavior — or just the wording around it. Jennifer Walton-Fisette, a professor and director of educator preparation at Kent State, is caught on camera discussing DEI and stating that getting rid of DEI is an attempt to “keep white men in power.” At the same time, Ohio State University (OSU) administrator Melissa Newhouse was discussing ongoing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices at the university today.

For critics, this isn’t speculation — it’s right there on camera. The reaction: if the law changed, why are schools talking about ways around it rather than following it? Full videos linked below.

Source:
🔗: Another Ohio university still pushes the pro-DEI, anti-white, anti-male rhetoric, undercover video shows
🔗: WATCH: OSU Administrator Caught on Hidden Camera Discussing Continued DEI Practices Despite State Ban
▶️ YouTube: Show Clip – University DEI discussion

▶️ YouTube: Ohio State University Administrator Admits School Still Pushes DEI — Then Claims the Video Is AI

🐀 Critter Corner

This week’s Critter Corner was loaded with Statehouse drama. Ohio GOP lawmakers are pushing to dismantle the federal Department of Education, while new bills target school lawsuits and parental rights issues. Robert and Tom unpacked how these moves could reshape education across the state — and why critics say legal fights are just getting started. The links below will keep you busy and shaking your head.

Source:
🔗: Ohio GOP lawmakers to formally pledge support for dismantling of U.S. Department of Education
🔗: Republicans plan to dismantle the Department of Education, saying it will give Ohio more control
🔗: State lawmakers rework bill against schools challenging EdChoice program
🔗: Rep. Jamie Callender criticizes school districts for using tax dollars to fund lawsuit against state
🔗: ‘It’s obviously unconstitutional.’ Vouchers Hurt Ohio speaks out against new Republican bill
🔗: New bill protects Ohio parents who reject their kid’s gender identity

🚔 Cuyahoga County: Not Personal… Apparently

Local politics got a spotlight as Harold Pretel defended a lawsuit involving county leadership, insisting it wasn’t personal. Robert and Tom weren’t fully convinced — and the conversation leaned into how these public disputes shape trust at the local level.

Source:
🔗: ‘This is not personal’: Cuyahoga County Sheriff Harold Pretel defends lawsuit against County Executive Chris Ronayne

🎙️ Ask Cuyahoga & The Internet Being… The Internet

The return of the Ask Cuyahoga podcast sparked commentary from the guys, who joked that while there are no dumb questions… some come pretty close. It was a lighter segment, but still tied back into how local governments communicate with residents. Take a listen to Myesha Watkins, administrator of the County Office of Violence Prevention, discussing the office’s mission, priorities, and community safety.

Source:
🔗: Cuyahoga County on X – Ask Cuyahoga podcast returns

⛽ When Should You Buy Gas?

A practical segment listeners can actually use — a recent study says Ohio’s “price cycling” means Mondays tend to be the best day to fill up. Robert and Tom compared notes on whether this lines up with real-life experience at the pump. Tom thinks in his area the cost is better on a Tuesday or Wednesday. What do you guys think in your area? Write us at crookedrivercast@gmail.com and let us know.

Source:
🔗: Study: Ohio ‘price cycling’ makes Mondays the best day for gas savings

⚖️ Free Legal Clinics for Immigrants

The city says these clinics are for “immigrants,” a term that covers a wide range of legal statuses. Critics argue the wording avoids a harder question — exactly who the programs are designed to help, and who ends up paying for it. Robert and Tom dug into the bigger question: why the language matters.

The city and local groups keep using the term “immigrants,” which covers a wide range of people — from legal residents to those without status. Critics argue that’s intentional, saying it avoids a tougher conversation about who these services are really meant for and where taxpayer dollars should go.

Source:
🔗: Cleveland Heights immigrants will soon get free legal clinics

🌟 Good Things

🏡 St. Jude Dream Home Success

A little good news to end on — the St. Jude Dream Home raffle sold out, showing just how strong community support can be when it comes to helping kids and families. Did you buy a ticket?

Source:
🔗: 2026 St. Jude Dream Home tickets are sold out

🐟 Lent Fish Fry Season Is Here

That time of year again — fish fry season across Northeast Ohio. Robert and Tom wrapped things up on a lighter note, talking traditions, favorite spots, and just how seriously people take their Friday plans.

Got a go-to fish fry? Send us your favorite spot — we’d love to share it with everyone since we’ve still got plenty of Lent left to go. Email us at crookedrivercast@gmail.com and let us know.

Source:
🔗: Fish Fry Guide | Cleveland, Ohio

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Crooked River Cast Show 40

🎙️ Governors, Data Centers, Dark Streets & Some Ohio Good News

Robert and Tom come out of the gate with energy this week—because it’s been that kind of Ohio news cycle. Robert kicks things off with a proud‑parent moment, sharing which CDs he picked up for his youngest (because real music still matters) and giving major kudos to his oldest, who absolutely owned her debate debut with a 6–2 win arguing to abolish SNAP. Parenting win unlocked. 🏆.

From there, the guys dig into a packed lineup: national politics spilling into Ohio, a rapidly shifting governor’s race, data centers raising serious questions, and cities dealing with consequences—from billion‑dollar settlements to literal darkness, let’s get into it!

🇺🇸 Trump’s Address to the Nation

Trump delivered a nationally televised address touching on military compensation, national pride, and executive actions—framing what he called a “warrior dividend” for service members and veterans.

Source:

▶️ YouTube: ‘Warrior dividend’: Trump announces $1,776 checks for military

🏛️ Trump Displays New Plaques at the ‘Presidential Walk of Fame’

Trump also made headlines unveiling new plaques at the Presidential Walk of Fame, leaning into legacy-building optics and signaling how central symbolism and branding remain to his political strategy. Gotta love the ‘auto pen’.

Source:

▶️ YouTube: Trump displays new plaques at the Presidential Walk of Fame

🔔 Ohio Labor Endorses Amy Acton

Ohio labor unions jumped into the governor’s race by endorsing Amy Acton, drawing swift pushback from the Ramaswamy campaign, which questioned her record and priorities. Do Ohioans remember her during COVID? Makeovers and coaching do not change the person…

Source:

🔗: Ohio labor unions endorse Acton, Ramaswamy campaign responds with criticism of her record

🤔 Why Has DeWine Not Endorsed Vivek?

Despite party pressure and behind‑the‑scenes conversations, Governor Mike DeWine continues to withhold an endorsement in the governor’s race—raising eyebrows across Ohio GOP circles. No surprise here!

Source:

🔗: DeWine hasn’t endorsed Ramaswamy for Ohio governor, but says they’re talking

❌ Dave Yost Says Vivek Endorsement Was a “Wrong Choice”

Attorney General Dave Yost isn’t backing down, saying the Ohio GOP’s early endorsement of Vivek Ramaswamy was a mistake—adding more fuel to an already fractured race.

Source:

🔗: Ohio GOP endorsed Vivek Ramaswamy in May. AG Dave Yost still says it was the wrong choice.

🆕 A New Challenger Enters the Governor’s Race

The governor’s race just got more crowded, with a self‑described “America First” candidate jumping in and taking aim at Trump‑endorsed Vivek. Keepin an eye on this one…

Source:

🔗: ‘America First’ candidate enters Ohio governor race, challenges Trump-endorsed Vivek Ramaswamy

💰 Ohio Treasurer Race Begins

Another statewide race is heating up as Treasurer Robert Sprague makes moves that could reshuffle Ohio’s political chessboard.

Source:

🔗: EXCLUSIVE: Ohio Treasurer of State Robert Sprague plans to replace Secretary of State Frank LaRose

🚜 Ohio Farmers Lose Big on Tariffs

Ohio farmers are feeling the sting, with Chinese sales down 74%—a reminder that trade wars hit home, even when national numbers look better on paper.

Sources:

🔗: Ohio farmers see one-year, 74% loss in Chinese sales due largely to Trump tariffs, report shows

🔗: U.S. Trade Deficit Shrinks to Five-Year Low as Exports Surge Under Trump Tariffs

🏗️ Lorain Mega Site Update

Neighbors are pushing back as Lorain County’s proposed mega site clears its first zoning hurdle—raising familiar questions about transparency, impact, and who really benefits. Fighting the good fight! Hold the line folks…

🔗: Neighbors push back as Lorain County ‘mega site’ receives first zoning hearing

☣️ Data Centers Linked to Cancer?

A new report is raising alarm bells by linking data centers to rare cancers, putting central Ohio residents on edge as development accelerates.

🔗: Report links data center to rare cancers, raising questions about central Ohioans’ safety

💧 EPA Wants Faster Data Center Water Permits

The Ohio EPA wants to streamline water permits for data centers—prompting concerns about environmental oversight versus corporate convenience. Can we say bad idea?

Source:

🔗: Ohio EPA looks to streamline water permits for data centers

🎶 Can You Legislate a Stronger Music Industry?

Cuyahoga County leaders think policy can help save local music—but with only 1 in 4 Cleveland indie venues turning a profit, the odds are steep.

Sources:

🔗: Cuyahoga Live Task Force Believes It Can Legislate Its Way Into a Stronger Music Industry

🔗: Only 1 in 4 Cleveland Independent Music Venues Were Profitable Last Year, New Report Says

⚖️ Cincinnati Approves BLM Protest Settlement

Cincinnati City Council approved an $8M+ settlement tied to 2020 protests—and plans to borrow to pay for it, leaving taxpayers with the bill.

Sources:

🔗: Cincinnati approves $8M settlement with 2020 protesters; city will borrow to pay for it

▶️ YouTube: Cincinnati City Council to vote on $8.1 million protest lawsuit settlement

💡 Cleveland in the Dark

Thieves stole thousands of feet of copper wiring, knocking out streetlights across parts of Cleveland—because apparently even infrastructure isn’t safe anymore.

Source:

🔗: Parts of Cleveland in the dark after thieves steal thousands of feet of streetlight wiring

🌟 Good Things

💵 Unclaimed Funds Hit Record Returns

Ohioans reclaimed more unclaimed funds than ever this year—proof it is worth checking that database.

Source:

🔗: 3News Investigates: Unclaimed funds claims quintuple after Cleveland Browns stadium announcement

🍽️ Ohio’s New Restaurant of the Year

Northeast Ohio’s food scene gets national love with a brand‑new Restaurant of the Year.

Source:

🔗: Check out Northeast Ohio’s New Restaurant of the Year

🎄 Special Christmas Display

A North Royalton neighborhood is lighting up the season with a can’t‑miss Christmas display. Being an animal-loving household, the display collects donations for Stearns Homestead, an educational farm in Parma that takes care of various animals. Go check it out!

Where: 10020 Applewood Drive, North Royalton, OH 44133

Source:

🔗: Special Christmas display on Applewood Drive in North Royalton

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