Ohio legislation

Protest Fallout, FirstEnergy Hung Jury & Data Center Fears — Crooked River Cast Show 55

Protest Fallout, FirstEnergy Hung Jury & Data Center Fears — Crooked River Cast Ep. 55 🎙

Robert kicked off the show with a story that anyone in Ohio can appreciate—an unexpected parking lot standoff with a very determined Canadian goose guarding its nest in a mulch bed that it inconveniently claimed as prime real estate. Proof that even a routine day can turn into wildlife drama around here. Let’s say the goose held its ground and won that round. From there, Robert and Tom quickly shifted into the bigger battles playing out across Northeast Ohio, from protests in downtown Cleveland to stalled corruption cases and communities pushing back against major development projects.

🪧 Protesters Flood Cleveland Streets Again

Protesters marching in downtown Cleveland during the No Kings demonstration on March 28, 2026

The “No Kings” protests are proving they’re not a one-off moment. Thousands returned to downtown Cleveland, showing this movement still has momentum. Whether leaders respond—or ignore it—remains to be seen. And for a little entertainment, check out some of the photos from the protest—you may find yourself doing a double-take at a few of them.

Source:

🔗: Photos: Thousands Again Marched the Streets of Downtown Cleveland in Third “No Kings” Protest

📧 FBI Director Email Hack Raises Security Questions

Asmongold Reacts To: Iran hacked and leaked FBI director Kash Patel personal Gmail account

A separate story making headlines involves the hacking of FBI Director Kash Patel’s personal Gmail account, where hackers released old emails and photos pulled from his inbox. Officials say the breach involved historical personal material—not classified government information… what initially looked like a major leak ended up being more noise than news—a classic nothing burger.

Source:

▶️ YouTube: There has been a leak..

⚡ FirstEnergy Corruption Case Ends Without Closure

Photo by: WEWS Mike Dowling and Chuck Jones are sitting in a Summit County Court of Common Pleas courtroom.

After years of investigations and headlines, the FirstEnergy corruption trial ended in a hung jury. That means no verdict—and no resolution for taxpayers still wondering who’s accountable. Robert and Tom didn’t mince words here: when a case this big stalls, public trust takes another hit.

Source:

🔗: FirstEnergy corruption case ends with hung jury

🏭 Hilliard Residents Push Back on Amazon Data Center

Hilliard residents concerned about Amazon data center air pollution

Big development projects promise jobs and growth, but they also bring concerns—especially when air quality and environmental impact are on the line. Residents in Hilliard are raising red flags about a proposed Amazon data center, showing once again that communities want transparency before expansion.

Source:

🔗: Hilliard residents concerned about Amazon data center air pollution

☀️ Solar Farm Proposal Gets Shut Down

Aerial view of a flock of sheep grazing in a solar farm with solar panels. (File photo from Getty Images.)

The Ohio Power Siting Board denied a solar project in Morrow County, adding another chapter to the state’s ongoing tug-of-war between renewable energy expansion and local control. It’s a reminder that energy policy isn’t just about technology—it’s about land, regulation, and who gets the final say.

Sources:

🔗: OPSB denies solar energy project in Morrow County
🔗: Will Ohio make a $98 million mistake? • Ohio Capital Journal

🔗:Ohio.news (@RealOhioNews) on X

🔗:Kentucky family rejects $26 million offer to convert part of their farm into a data center by Rugg (@CollinRugg) on X

Critter Corner 🐀

This week’s Critter Corner dove into some of the most contentious legislation and court battles making headlines across Ohio. From new reporting requirements around fetal deaths to ongoing legal fights over youth healthcare policies, the conversation highlighted just how personal—and polarizing—state policy debates have become.

Sources:

🔗: Ohio bill would require fetal life and death certificates
🔗: Ohio passes drag ban backed by lawmaker accused of child sex abuse
🔗: Legal fight over Ohio’s transgender youth care ban reaches state Supreme Court

🏫 Akron Builds While Cutting

Students gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new K-8 school in Akron's Kenmore neighborhood

Akron Public Schools are moving forward with new construction even as budget pressures force tough decisions elsewhere. It’s a balancing act many districts face—investing in infrastructure while managing shrinking resources—and it raises real questions about priorities and long-term planning.

Source:

🔗: Akron Public Schools breaks ground on new facility in Kenmore neighborhood

💰 Medina Reverses School Funding Cuts

The Medina County Budget Commission has scrapped a plan to cut more than $500,000 from Cloverleaf Local Schools and roll back millions more from other districts.

In a rare twist, Medina County reversed planned school funding cuts after realizing a deadline had been missed. Bureaucratic oversight turned into a financial lifeline for local schools—and a reminder that timing matters just as much as policy.

Source:

🔗: Medina County Budget Commission reverses school funding cuts after missing deadline

🚒 Akron Firefighters Warn of Staffing Risks

Akron firefighters union warns budget proposal could worsen staffing shortages Union says $200,000 increase isn’t keeping up with demand as department faces overtime crisis

Akron’s fire department is sounding the alarm over proposed budget changes that could strain staffing levels. When emergency services raise concerns, people tend to listen—because response times and public safety are not theoretical issues.

Source:

🔗: Akron firefighters union warns budget proposal could worsen staffing shortages

Good Things 🌟

🦍 New Primate Forest Coming to Cleveland Zoo

New Primate Forest to open this summer at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo $73 million of renovations set to finish at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

A fresh attraction is on the way to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, and it’s shaping up to be a major draw. The upcoming Primate Forest promises immersive habitats and a new experience for families—proof that not all local news has to be heavy.

Source:

🔗: First look at new Primate Forest to open this summer at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

🎭 Wadsworth’s Historic Theater Finds New Life

Photo by: Celestia Theater A more than 120-year-old school that was once slated for demolition is now a bustling concert venue, bringing music, memories, and a big boost to the local economy.

An old school building in Wadsworth is getting a second act as a concert venue. It’s the kind of community revival story that reminds you how creativity and preservation can work hand in hand.

Source:

🔗: Historic school hits the right note as new concert venue

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Meteor Madness, Mega-Site Battles & Hormone Therapy Headlines — Ohio Politics Heats Up While Medina Looks to the Sky – Crooked River Cast Show 53

Meteor Madness, Mega-Site Battles & Hormone Therapy Headlines — Ohio Politics Heats Up While Medina Looks to the Sky 

The episode opened with Robert asking Tom how his week went — though, sorry listeners, you never quite get the answer, as Robert jumped into a story of his own. A flat tire on I-77 during a business trip could have been a nightmare, but it turned into a moment of appreciation thanks to an ODOT plow crew who pulled up behind him and shielded him from traffic while he swapped the tire. It was a reminder of the everyday heroes on Ohio’s roads before the conversation turned to the sad news of Chuck Norris’ passing and the many stories that followed — from local government showdowns to courtroom drama, and yes, an honest-to-goodness meteor lighting up northern Ohio.

They also dug into the latest developments in the FirstEnergy corruption trial, statehouse legislation that could impact healthcare access, and some eyebrow-raising national stories. As always, the guys kept it sharp, skeptical, and grounded in what matters to Ohioans.

🥋 10 Ways to Honor Chuck (Yes, That Chuck)

The show kicked off with a tongue-in-cheek tribute that only the Babylon Bee could deliver. It’s satire, sure — but it set the tone for a lively episode that balanced humor with heavier headlines. Sometimes a little levity is exactly what you need before diving into politics and policy.

Source:
🔗: 10 Ways To Honor Chuck Norris | Babylon Bee

🌍 Iran Update — Allies Draw a Line

Robert and Tom discussed the latest geopolitical tension involving Iran — and the reality check that comes when allies don’t automatically fall in line. The takeaway: international politics is rarely simple, and coalition-building is harder than press conferences make it sound.

Source:

▶️: YouTube: Watch Japanese PM’s Reaction

▶️: YouTube: BREAKING: European allies make MAJOR pivot on Strait of Hormuz

⚖️ Antifa Cell Convicted in Texas Terrorism Trial

A major federal terrorism case wrapped up in Texas, with members of an Antifa-linked group convicted in connection to an attack on an ICE facility. The hosts highlighted how rare terrorism convictions are in domestic protest-related cases — and what that could mean for future prosecutions.

Sources:

🔗: MAZE (@mazemoore)

🔗: All Members of Texas Antifa Cell Convicted in First Federal Terrorism Trial
▶️: YouTube: Verdict reached in high‐profile Prairieland ICE attack trial

☄️ Meteor In Medina!

If you heard a boom or saw a flash recently, you weren’t imagining things. A meteor streaked across Northeast Ohio, sparking excitement, curiosity, and — naturally — a wave of local pride. Leave it to Clevelanders to turn a cosmic event into merch within hours.

Sources:
🔗: Meteor explosion over Northeast Ohio sparks quest for fragments across Medina County
🔗: Cleveland meteor apparel is here to help you remember what you survived

🏛️ FirstEnergy Trial — Husted Testifies as Jury Takes the Case

One of the biggest corruption cases in Ohio history is now in the jury’s hands. Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted took the stand, adding another high-profile moment to a trial that has already reshaped the state’s political landscape. Robert and Tom emphasized just how consequential the verdict could be — not just legally, but politically.

Sources:
🔗: US Sen. Jon Husted takes stand the stand in FirstEnergy corruption trial
🔗: Closing Arguments In Trial Of Former FirstEnergy Execs | Newsradio WTAM 1100
🔗: Jurors receive case in FirstEnergy corruption trial

🗳️ Senate Race Tightens — Brown vs. Husted

Polling shows the Ohio U.S. Senate race is essentially a dead heat. Healthcare costs are emerging as a top voter concern, and both candidates are leaning into that issue. The hosts noted that this race could become one of the most closely watched contests in the country.

Source:
🔗: Poll Shows Ohio U.S. Senate Race Statistically Tied With Health Insurance a Big Concern Among Voters

🏗️ Communities Push Back on Mega Projects

Local governments are drawing lines in the sand. New Russia Township voted against a proposed mega development site, while Wellington took a proactive step by banning data centers altogether. It’s a reminder that small-town officials can still wield big influence when residents speak up. You have to respect communities that stand together and make their voices heard. That’s local government in action — just the way our founding fathers intended.

Sources:
🔗: New Russia Township trustees vote against Lorain County mega site
🔗: ‘We’re just being proactive’: This small Lorain County town is banning data centers

🐀 Critter Corner

🩺 Menopause & Pharmacy Bills Move Through the Statehouse

Two healthcare-related bills are gaining attention in Columbus. One would expand access to menopause hormone therapy, while another aims to broaden treatment options through pharmacies. The conversation highlighted a growing push to make routine care faster and more accessible — especially in underserved areas.

Sources:
🔗: Bill would make it easier for Ohio women to get access to menopause hormone therapy
🔗: Lawmakers consider bill to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for Ohio communities

🗳️ Ballot Drop Boxes Debate Heats Up

Election policy is back in the spotlight, with lawmakers considering legislation tied to ballot drop boxes. As always, the debate centers on balancing voter access with election security — a topic that shows no signs of cooling down.

Sources:
🔗: EXCLUSIVE: Secretary of State candidate Robert Sprague criticizes Democratic pro-ballot drop box bill

🎭 Drag Performance Ban Faces Legal Challenge

Ohio’s proposed restrictions on drag performances continue to draw national attention. Testimony from performers and advocates has underscored the legal and cultural stakes, while lawmakers weigh how far government regulation should go. The issue has sparked strong opinions on both sides, with many parents and community members saying this is about setting reasonable boundaries and keeping adult-oriented entertainment away from children. We’ll see how the courts ultimately weigh in..

Source:
🔗: Drag queens testify against Ohio performance ban

🏈 Browns Unclaimed Funds Fight Moves Forward

A court ruling blocked part of Ohio’s plan to use unclaimed funds for stadium projects — but the legal battle isn’t over yet. Robert and Tom pointed out that taxpayer dollars and public trust are both on the line.

Sources:
🔗: Ohio Unclaimed Funds for Sports Stadiums Law Blocked by State Court but Not Federal

🌟 Good Things

🎤 Afroman Wins His Case

Sometimes the underdog wins — and this time it came with a beat. Rapper Afroman scored a legal victory in a civil case that drew national attention. The guys couldn’t resist celebrating the outcome with a little musical flair.

Sources:
🔗: ‘America won’ | Jury sides with rapper Afroman in Adams County civil trial
▶️: YouTube: Afroman – Will You Help Me Repair My Door (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

🌳 Get Outside — The Metroparks Are Calling

As winter loosens its grip, there’s no better time to reconnect with Northeast Ohio’s greatest natural asset: the Metroparks. Whether it’s hiking, biking, or just clearing your head, fresh air remains one of the best free therapies around.

Source:
🔗: Outdoor Recreation | Cleveland Metroparks

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Crooked River Cast Show 51

🎙️ 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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