ohio politics

Iran Deal Tested, DeWine Vetoes Mail Ballot Bill & What’s Next for the I-X Center — Crooked River Cast Show #67 🎙

Summer has officially arrived, and before diving into this week’s headlines, Robert and Tom shared some Crooked River Cast breaking news. After today’s episode, the show will be taking a three-week summer hiatus to recharge, regroup, and get ready for what promises to be a busy election season. The news never stops, but everyone deserves a little time to catch their breath. The guys will be back soon, refreshed and ready to tackle whatever Ohio and the rest of the world throw their way.

Now, on to this week’s stories.

🌍 Iran Deal Tested After Drone Attack

The United States struck Iranian military targets after accusing Tehran of attacking a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting Iran’s Revolutionary Guards to target US positions in retaliation, escalating tensions and casting fresh doubt over a fragile ceasefire in West Asia.

Just days after hopes of easing tensions in the Middle East, a drone attack on commercial shipping has raised new questions about the future of President Trump’s proposed agreement with Iran. The incident highlights just how fragile the situation remains and whether diplomacy can survive another round of escalating conflict. When will this really end?

Source:

🔗: Iran deal tested by drone attack as Trump offers up US farm goods

⚖️ Supreme Court Immigration Rulings

The U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday allowed President Donald Trump to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian and Syrian immigrants, meaning they could be subject to deportation.

The U.S. Supreme Court handed down immigration rulings that could have significant consequences for thousands of Haitian immigrants, including many living here in Ohio. The decisions allow the Department of Homeland Security to end temporary protections for certain immigrants while legal battles continue, creating uncertainty for families and communities across the state. The ground has stopped shaking and the huts have been rebuilt, time to back home folks….and Yes! Save the dogs! Save the cats!

Sources:

🔗: Supreme Court: DHS can end protections for Haitian immigrants, thousands of whom live in Ohio

🔗: Ohio Cities Brace for Impact of Supreme Court Allowing Trump to Take Legal Status Away from Haitians

🔗: Kristina Knickerbocker (@KnickerbockerOH) on X

🗳️ DeWine Vetoes Ohio Mail-In Ballot ID Bill

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has vetoed legislation that would have required the vast majority of voters to provide their photo ID to cast a mail-in ballot. "H.B. 472 is all burden for so little benefit," DeWine said in his veto message Wednesday evening.

Governor Mike DeWine surprised many by vetoing legislation that would have required additional photo identification for Ohioans requesting mail-in ballots. Republicans in the Statehouse are already discussing whether they have enough votes to override the veto, setting up another debate over election security and voter access ahead of future elections.

Robert and Tom questioned the governor’s decision, arguing that as his time in office winds down, this veto is another example of what they see as leadership that has fallen short for Ohio. They also wondered whether the move is part of a broader political strategy heading into the next election cycle.

What do you think? Is this the right decision, or is there more to it? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Email us at crookedrivercast@gmail.com.

Sources:

🔗: Will Ohio Republicans override Gov. DeWine’s voter photo ID veto?

🔗: Gov. DeWine blocks stricter ID mandate for Ohio mail-in voting

🚓 Ohio Drivers May Soon Have to Identify Themselves During Traffic Stops

n Ohio bill that would explicitly criminalize refusing to provide basic identifying information during a traffic stop, clarifying what some law enforcement officials have called a gray area in state law, is awaiting Gov. Mike DeWine’s signature. House Bill 492, sponsored by Reps. Sharon Ray (R-Wadsworth) and Cindy Abrams (R-Harrison), passed the Senate on June 10 after passing the House in November.

An Ohio bill awaiting Governor DeWine’s signature would require drivers to identify themselves during traffic stops. Supporters argue it provides clarity and improves officer safety, while critics question whether the proposal creates unnecessary legal complications. It’s another example of lawmakers trying to redefine the rules of interactions between drivers and law enforcement.

Source:

🔗: Ohio bill requiring drivers to identify selves at traffic stops awaits governor’s signature

🎓 One Year Later: Ohio’s Anti-“Woke” Higher Education Law

Brielle Shorter, a 20-year-old Ohio State University student, protests against Senate Bill 1 on Jan. 22, 2025. (Photo by Megan Henry, Ohio Capital Journal).

It’s been about a year since Ohio’s higher education reform law took effect, and lawmakers are already looking ahead. Supporters believe the legislation is making Ohio colleges more attractive to students, while opponents continue debating its impact on academic freedom and campus culture.

Source:

🔗: Author of Ohio anti-’woke’ higher ed law celebrates college enrollments, lays out what’s next

🚓 North Canton Launches Public Speeding Database

The North Canton Police Department is making its speed data public. Residents can now see data collected by officers through a new website. Data on accidents and traffic stops is now available online. Residents can also see which streets police are monitoring for speeding.

The North Canton Police Department has rolled out a new online speed data website that allows residents to see where speeding problems are occurring throughout the city. The goal is greater transparency and helping residents understand where enforcement efforts are focused. You can check out the website here on this link.

Source:

🔗: North Canton Police Department launches new speed data website

👮 Sheriffs Push for an Elected Cuyahoga County Sheriff

Cuyahoga County Sheriff Harold Pretel speaks to Cuyahoga County Council with sheriffs from Northeast Ohio behind him on June 23, 2026.

Sheriffs from across Ohio are encouraging Cuyahoga County leaders to return to electing their sheriff rather than appointing one. Supporters argue elected sheriffs provide greater accountability directly to voters, while others believe the current appointment system better serves the county’s needs. It also ties back to last week’s episode, where Robert and Tom discussed two different sheriff stories—highlighting why experienced, accountable leadership in Ohio’s sheriff’s offices matters to communities across the state.

Source:

🔗: Northeast Ohio sheriffs lobby Cuyahoga County Council for an elected sheriff

🏢 What Is the Future of the I-X Center?

Fed-up show producers are sharing details about behind-the-scenes efforts to keep events at Cleveland's I-X Center for the next few years — as complex real estate talks make compromise seem unlikely.

The future of one of Northeast Ohio’s most recognizable venues remains uncertain. Event organizers continue expressing frustration after a year of stalled negotiations and unanswered questions about the facility’s future. At the same time, Cleveland officials say a manufacturing project being considered for the property could bring hundreds of new jobs and millions in payroll, leaving many wondering what comes next for the iconic I-X Center.

Sources:

🔗: ‘End of our rope.’ I-X Center event producers speak up after year in limbo, stalled talks

🔗: Cleveland says a manufacturer eyeing the I-X Center could bring 700 jobs, $72M in payroll

🌟 Good Things

💰 Ohio’s Unclaimed Funds Continue to Grow

Photo by: News 5 News 5 interviewed a woman, who moved away from Ohio to avoid a domestic situation, and is waiting for nearly $500,000 in unclaimed funds to help her rebuild her life.

Ohio still has billions of dollars in unclaimed funds waiting to be returned to residents, including one woman owed nearly half a million dollars. While the funds are available, processing delays are frustrating people who are waiting to receive what is theirs. It’s another reminder to periodically check Ohio’s unclaimed funds database—you never know what might be waiting. What’s the holdup?

Source:

🔗: Woman owed nearly $500,000 in unclaimed funds waits 6+ months as backlog continues

🌊 Gordon Park Gets a Fresh Start

A major transformation is now underway at Gordon Park on Cleveland’s east side. Cleveland Metroparks has officially started a $10 million renovation project aimed at turning the southern section of the park into a new neighborhood gathering space along the lakefront. Cleveland Metroparks said this redesign is all about opening the lakefront back up to the community.

A major transformation is underway at Cleveland’s Gordon Park, where the Cleveland Metroparks has kicked off a $10 million renovation designed to turn the southern portion of the park into a vibrant neighborhood gathering place along the Lake Erie shoreline. The project will feature expanded green space shaded by mature trees, scenic lake views, and a new walking loop that park visitors have long enjoyed.

The renovation is being funded through an $8 million grant from the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation, along with $2 million from Cleveland Metroparks. Construction is expected to continue through next spring, with the newly renovated park scheduled to reopen in summer 2027, giving Clevelanders an even better place to enjoy the lakefront for years to come.

Source:

🔗: Gordon Park renovation aims to bring community back to the lakefront

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If you enjoy staying informed about what’s happening across Ohio without all the noise, be sure to subscribe to Crooked River Cast so you never miss an episode. Share this episode with your friends and family, follow CRC Ohio News on X , and join the conversation. We’ll be taking a short summer break, but we’ll be back soon with more Ohio news, more discussion, and plenty more to talk about.

🎙️ Before we sign off for our summer break, we want to wish everyone a safe and Happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸 As our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary of freedom, we hope you take time to enjoy family, friends, and everything that makes this country special. 🎆 Have an amazing summer, and we’ll be back in a few weeks with more Ohio news and conversation.

Tulsi’s Bombshell Exit, Trump’s Iran Deal & Ohio’s Death Penalty Debate — Crooked River Cast Show #66 🎙

This week on Crooked River Cast, Robert and Tom tackled a mix of international headlines, Ohio politics, crime stories, government spending, surveillance debates, and transportation funding and facts released on Fauci that we already suspected to be true. From President Trump’s announced agreement with Iran and a major cartel strike in Venezuela to Ohio’s ongoing death penalty debate and Cleveland’s decision to walk away from FLOCK cameras, there was plenty to unpack. The guys also wrapped things up with some positive news about lower gas prices and Fourth of July celebrations around Northeast Ohio.

🎥 Tulsi’s Final-Day Bombshell

Tulsi Gabbard's annoucement on her last day as Direction of National Intelligence - releasing evidence of how Dr. Fauci provided millions in US taxpayer dollars to fund dangerous gain-of-function research at the Wuhan lab and lied to suppress the truth about his actions and hide the virus' lab-leak origins and lied to Congress while under oath in 2024.

On her final day as Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard released documents and communications that she says expose how Dr. Anthony Fauci directed U.S. taxpayer funding toward gain-of-function research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, worked with members of the Intelligence Community to suppress information surrounding a possible lab-leak origin of COVID-19, and misled Congress during sworn testimony. Go to ODNI.gov to see for yourself

The release immediately reignited debate over the origins of COVID-19 and whether Americans were misled about what federal officials knew during the pandemic. Robert and Tom discussed the significance of the documents, why the story is gaining traction, and whether the release finally sheds light on questions that have lingered since 2020.

The conversation also turned to Fauci’s controversial preemptive blanket pardon from the Biden administration and the use of an autopen for presidential pardons and other executive actions. If additional investigations or legal challenges emerge, questions about the validity and scope of those actions could become part of a much larger national debate. Will Fauci ever get his day in Federal court?

Sources:

🔗: Tulsi Gabbard Final Day as Director of National Intelligence Statement

🔗: Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) on X

🔗: MAZE (@mazemoore)

🌎 Trump Signs Iran Deal, Strait of Hormuz Reopens

Trump signs Iran memorandum of understanding as expert weighs in on risks Foundation for Defense of Democracies senior Iran program director Behnam Ben Taleblu reacts to President Donald Trump signing a memorandum of understanding with Iran after returning from the G7 in France.

PPresident Trump announced an agreement aimed at ending the recent conflict with Iran and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping lanes. The announcement quickly generated strong reactions online as supporters praised the move as a diplomatic victory while critics questioned what comes next.

Robert and Tom discussed the potential impact on global stability, energy markets, and whether the agreement represents a lasting peace or simply a pause in tensions.

Sources:

🔗: READ IT: The full text of the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding

🎯 U.S. Strike Eliminates Tren de Aragua Leader in Venezuela

arynewstv 1w CARACAS: The leader of the transnational gang Tren de Aragua was killed in a joint operation by the United States (US) and Venezuela, authorities in the South American nation said on Friday - June 19, 2026

President Trump announced that U.S. Southern Command carried out what he described as a “swift and lethal kinetic strike” that killed Héctor “Niño” Guerrero, the longtime leader of Tren de Aragua, the Venezuelan gang that the Trump administration designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Trump called the operation an act of justice for victims of violent crimes linked to the gang and praised cooperation between U.S. and Venezuelan authorities during the mission. Reports indicate the strike was conducted in coordination with officials in Venezuela.

Robert and Tom discussed the significance of the operation and what it means for efforts to dismantle Tren de Aragua. The conversation focused on the gang’s reputation for violence throughout the Americas, the administration’s broader campaign against cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and whether the elimination of its leader will have a lasting impact on the group’s operations.

Source:

🔗: Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump)

👮 Sheriff Explodes At Reporter During Child Predator Press Conference

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods exploded on a reporter who ignored the subject of his press conference -- a sting conducted to capture child sex offenders -- and asked about an unrelated case.

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods went viral after a reporter asked about an unrelated case during a press conference announcing the results of a sting operation targeting suspected child sex offenders. Clearly frustrated, Woods interrupted the question and told the reporter, “You just pissed me off,” before explaining that the focus should remain on the victims and the arrests that had just been announced.

Robert and Tom discussed the exchange and whether the sheriff’s response was justified. From the sheriff’s perspective, the press conference was meant to highlight efforts to protect children and bring predators to justice, not to shift attention to unrelated topics. And yes, this is a sheriff we would vote for!

Source:

🔗: Breitbart News posted a video on X: “This press conference is solely for those pieces of sh*t who are right there!”

🥊 Terror Plot Targeting UFC Event Raises Concerns

Douglas County Sheriff says DACA recipient planned White House UFC attack Douglas County Sheriff Aaron Hanson details the arrest of Abraham Alvarez, accused ringleader in an alleged UFC event attack plot at the White House. Alvarez, an illegal immigrant from Mexico, received DACA status under the Obama administration. Sheriff Hanson expressed frustration that Alvarez "never should have been here" and highlighted how the policy put the nation and community at risk.

Federal authorities revealed details of an alleged terror plot connected to the Freedom 250 UFC event. Investigators say the suspect had broader political motivations, creating concerns about security surrounding major public gatherings and high-profile political figures.

Robert and Tom discussed the seriousness of the alleged plot, noting that while authorities say the plan was ultimately thwarted, it had the potential to put innocent people in harm’s way. The conversation highlighted the importance of event security and how increasingly heated political tensions can sometimes spill over into real-world threats and violence. And here, another good sheriff- wish we could vote a good one in.

Sources:

🔗: FBI complaint details alleged terror plot targeting Freedom 250 UFC fight

🔗: Nebraska sheriff exposes how DACA loophole put Trump and the nation in crosshairs of UFC terror plot

💰 DeWine Signs Nearly $4 Billion Capital Budget

Ohio Republican Gov. Mike DeWine on Monday signed the capital budget bill for fiscal years 2027 and 2028, a nearly multi-billion spending plan that funds projects in all 88 Ohio counties.

Governor Mike DeWine signed Senate Bill 450, Ohio’s capital budget for fiscal years 2027 and 2028, authorizing nearly $4 billion in spending for projects across all 88 counties. DeWine said the investments will impact Ohioans both today and for years to come, with funding directed toward infrastructure, community projects, higher education, and other state priorities.

Robert and Tom took a more skeptical view of the massive spending package. While supporters argue the capital budget funds important projects throughout the state, the guys questioned the timing and scope of such a large commitment as DeWine approaches the end of his time in office. They discussed concerns about government spending, accountability, and whether taxpayers will ultimately see the promised benefits from the billions being allocated.

Source:

🔗: DeWine signs nearly $4 billion capital budget

⚖️ DeWine Wants Ohio To End The Death Penalty

Photo by: WEWS File Suzanne Taylor with daughters Taylor Pifer and Kylie Pifer

Governor Mike DeWine is urging Ohio lawmakers to abolish the death penalty, arguing that the system is costly, inefficient, and has failed to function as intended. After helping create Ohio’s modern capital punishment law decades ago, DeWine now says the state should move away from executions altogether and focus resources on keeping violent offenders behind bars for life.

Robert and Tom focused on the reaction from victims’ families, particularly the story of Rhonda Whitelock, whose lifelong friend Suzanne Taylor and her two daughters were brutally murdered by George Brinkman in 2017. For families still waiting for justice, the governor’s change of heart has reopened old wounds and reignited a debate that remains deeply emotional across Ohio.

The guys also questioned the timing of DeWine’s push with only months remaining in office. While supporters see the proposal as a policy decision, Robert and Tom discussed whether the move could have broader political implications as Ohio prepares for its next gubernatorial election. As they noted on the show, only time will tell how voters and lawmakers respond.

Source:

🔗: Her best friend, kids were murdered. She hopes lawmakers ignore DeWine’s change of heart on the death penalty.

📷 Cleveland Says Goodbye To FLOCK Cameras

Is Immigration and Customs Enforcement tapping into Flock safety cameras in Cleveland Heights? City Council says no, but took legislative action on Monday as a precaution.

Cleveland’s contract for FLOCK license plate reader cameras is set to expire at the end of the month, and city leaders appear ready to move on. Supporters argue the technology helps solve crimes, while critics continue raising privacy concerns. The discussion highlighted the growing debate over surveillance versus public safety.

Source:

🔗: Cleveland Flock license plate reader contract expiring at end of month

🚓 North Olmsted Police Credit FLOCK Cameras In Arrest

North Olmsted Police say flock cameras flagged a vehicle that was stolen during an aggravated robbery in Cleveland.

While Cleveland is stepping away from the technology, neighboring North Olmsted recently used FLOCK cameras to help identify and locate a suspect. Robert and Tom compared the two situations and discussed whether tools like these are worth the trade-offs.

Source:

🔗: Flock cameras help North Olmsted Police track down suspect

🚌 RTA Wants A Tax Hike To Stay Afloat

Greater Cleveland RTA Board considers asking for an additional sales tax to close deficit.

RTA officials are considering asking Cuyahoga County voters to approve a sales tax increase for the first time in nearly 50 years. Depending on the proposal, the increase could generate between $70 million and $140 million annually to help stabilize the agency’s finances and support future growth.

Robert and Tom discussed the challenges of passing any tax increase, especially with major statewide races expected to dominate the election cycle. Even so, both felt this is one proposal that may actually have a decent chance of passing if voters believe the funding is needed to maintain public transit services.

Source:

🔗: Would you be willing to pay a higher sales tax to help RTA?

🌟 Good Things

⛽ Gas Prices Drop Just In Time For Summer Travel

According to AAA, the national average for a gallon of gas dropped to $3.99 per gallon and locally in Warrensville Heights, FOX 8 found $3.42 per gallon at the GetGo on Miles Road.

Drivers across Northeast Ohio are seeing some relief at the pump as gas prices continue to fall. With Independence Day travel right around the corner, the timing couldn’t be much better for families planning road trips and holiday gatherings.

Source:

🔗: ‘Thank goodness’: Local drivers react to dropping gas prices amid US-Iran deal

🎆 Fourth Of July Celebrations Return Across Greater Cleveland

Fourth of July in Greater Cleveland: Your 2026 Independence Day Party Guide Get ready to party with our top picks for local Fourth of July celebrations, including parades, concerts and more.

Fireworks, parades, festivals, and community celebrations are popping up all over Northeast Ohio as Independence Day approaches. Robert and Tom highlighted some of the events residents can enjoy throughout the region.

Source:

🔗: Fourth of July in Greater Cleveland: Your 2026 Independence Day Party Guide

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Tulsi’s Bombshell, UFO Files & Ohio Voting Battles — Crooked River Cast Show #65 🎙

This week on Crooked River Cast, Robert and Tom dive into a packed lineup of national headlines and Ohio political drama. From Tulsi Gabbard’s explosive claims about U.S.-funded biolabs and another Pentagon UFO document release to major voting law changes in Ohio, there’s plenty to unpack. The guys also discuss a surprising new Ohio poll, an FBI raid involving a voting rights organization, Cleveland Clinic’s settlement with the DOJ, and why one Ohio business owner is threatening to shut down a major roadway. Plus, a pair of uplifting Good Things stories to end the show on a positive note.

💥 Tulsi Says Goodbye With a Bang

Tulsi Gabbard Bombshell US Funded Biolabs around the world

As Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard announced the release of intelligence documents she says reveal decades of U.S. government funding for more than 120 biological laboratories across over 30 countries. According to Gabbard, some of these facilities have conducted research involving hazardous pathogens, and she argued that information about their existence and funding had been withheld from the public.

Gabbard also pointed to concerns about gain-of-function research, highlighted President Trump’s executive order ending federal funding for such research overseas, and said intelligence agencies are now collecting additional information about the labs, their activities, and the pathogens they may contain. The announcement has already sparked debate over transparency, national security, and the oversight of international biological research programs.

Source:

▶️ YouTube:  BREAKING: Tulsi Gabbard Drops Bombshell Intelligence On U.S.-Funded Biolabs Around The World

👽 Pentagon Releases Third Batch of “Files”

The Pentagon has released a third batch of declassified files related to unidentified anomalous phenomena. NBC News' Courtney Kube reports on what the files contain and disclose.

The Pentagon has released another collection of declassified UFO-related documents, fueling ongoing public fascination with unidentified aerial phenomena. Robert and Tom discuss whether these disclosures provide meaningful answers or simply generate more questions.

Source:

▶️ YouTube: Pentagon releases third batch of declassified UFO files

📊 Shock Poll Shows Democrats Leading in Ohio

A new Fox News poll shows Democratic candidates holding leads in Ohio’s U.S. Senate and gubernatorial races despite the state’s recent Republican dominance.

A new poll is raising eyebrows across the state, showing Democratic candidates leading key Ohio races for governor and U.S. Senate. The results have generated plenty of discussion about voter sentiment, campaign strategy, and whether the numbers represent a lasting trend or a temporary snapshot.

Source:

🔗: Shock poll shows Democrats leading Ohio governor, Senate races

🐀 Critter Corner

🏛️ What Did They Pass Before Break?

COLUMBUS, Ohio — APRIL 20: The Ohio Statehouse in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Graham Stokes for Ohio Capital Journal)

Before heading out for summer recess, Ohio lawmakers pushed through several pieces of legislation and resolutions. Robert and Tom break down some of the biggest actions taken during the final stretch and discuss what they could mean when lawmakers return.

Source:

🔗: Here’s what passed before Ohio lawmakers went on summer recess

🪪 Voter ID Amendment Will Be on the November Ballot

Ohio Senate passes resolution to put voter photo ID amendment on Nov. ballot_2026

Ohio voters will have an opportunity this November to weigh in on a proposed constitutional amendment dealing with voter photo identification requirements. The measure could permanently place voter ID requirements into the state constitution if approved.

Source:

🔗: Ohio Senate passes resolution to put voter photo ID amendment on Nov. ballot

📬 Ohio Adds Voter ID Requirement for Mail Ballots

Ohioans soon will be required to provide a photo ID when voting by mail – a major change to a voting method that previously had been exempted from the strict voter ID requirement Republican lawmakers passed following the 2020 presidential election.

Ohio lawmakers also approved new identification requirements for absentee voting beginning with future elections. The change expands photo ID requirements beyond in-person voting and is expected to impact how mail ballots are requested and processed.

Source:

🔗: Ohio adds new photo ID requirement for mail voting for 2027 election

🚨 Ohio Voting Rights Group Raided by FBI

FILE - An FBI seal is displayed on a podium before a news conference at the field office in Portland, Ore., Jan. 16, 2025. AP Photo/Jenny Kane, File

An Ohio voting rights organization found itself at the center of attention after FBI agents conducted searches connected to an ongoing investigation. The situation has generated significant discussion across the state regarding election-related organizations and federal investigations.

Sources:

🔗: Ohio voting rights group says it was raided by the FBI

🔗: What to know about the Ohio Organizing Collaborative after FBI searches

⚖️ DOJ Settles with Cleveland Clinic

Cleveland Clinic agrees to 20-year ban on gender-related treatments for minors in DOJ settlement Cleveland Clinic will pay $308,000 to resolve false billing allegations and commit an additional $2 million for restorative care for people who have detransitioned.

The Department of Justice and Cleveland Clinic have reached a settlement involving gender-related treatments for minors. The agreement establishes restrictions that will remain in place for years to come and has become one of the most talked-about legal and healthcare stories in Ohio.

Sources:

🔗: DOJ settlement: Cleveland Clinic agrees to cease gender-affirming care for minors for 20 years

🔗: Cleveland Clinic agrees to 20-year ban on gender-related treatments for minors in DOJ settlement

🏠 Property Tax Petition Won’t Make the Ballot

Brian Massie, a campaign leader and the co-founder of AxOHTax, announced early Friday that the group hasn't reached its goal of collecting 620,000 signatures. Facing a July 1 deadline to submit petitions to the Ohio Secretary of State, he and fellow volunteers have decided to hold off — for now.

Supporters of a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at eliminating property taxes in Ohio have hit a major roadblock. The measure will not appear on this November’s ballot, leaving advocates to consider their next steps and keeping the property tax debate alive for the future.

Source:

🔗: Constitutional amendment to eliminate property taxes in Ohio will not appear on November ballot

🚧 Fix the Potholes or We Shut It Down

After years of dealing with crumbling pavement, a businessman is giving the state an ultimatum: tell the community when Euclid Avenue will be repaired, or demonstrators will shut down the busy road.

A frustrated business owner is warning state leaders that deteriorating road conditions along Euclid Avenue are hurting local businesses and creating safety concerns. The threat of organized demonstrations highlights growing frustration over infrastructure issues and delayed repairs.

Source:

🔗: Business owner to governor: Discuss fixes for Euclid Avenue or we’ll shut it down with demonstrators

🌟 Good Things

🎬 TikTok Video Gives Back Big

ary Eron, who has worked in movie theaters for decades, was going about a typical shift at a theater in Maryville when 21-year-old Brooklyn Green noticed her pushing a janitorial cart and hauling trash.
What began as a simple act of kindness inside a Tennessee movie theater has turned into more than $146,000 in donations for an 85-year-old employee after a stranger shared her story online. Mary Eron, who has worked in movie theaters for decades, was going about a typical shift at a theater in Maryville when 21-year-old Brooklyn Green noticed her pushing a janitorial cart and hauling trash.
Green didn't know Eron personally. But after seeing the longtime employee still working at age 85, she decided to post a video on TikTok and launch a GoFundMe campaign to help Eron retire.

Sometimes the internet gets it right. After a TikTok video highlighted an 85-year-old movie theater employee still working to make ends meet, viewers responded in a big way. Donations poured in from across the country, turning a simple viral moment into a life-changing act of generosity.

Source:

🔗: TikTok video of 85-year-old movie theater employee sparks $146,000 in donations from strangers

⛵ Cleveland Metroparks Unveils Sailing Center

The Cleveland Metroparks is officially opening a first-of-its-kind destination along Lake Erie, bringing sailing, education, recreation and waterfront dining all together under one roof. The new Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center is now open at the E. 55th Street Marina, marking the first public community sailing center of its kind on Lake Erie in Ohio.

Northeast Ohio’s waterfront just got a major upgrade. Cleveland Metroparks officially unveiled a new sailing center and waterfront restaurant at the 55th Street Marina, creating another destination for residents and visitors looking to enjoy Lake Erie. The Patrick S. Parker Community Sailing Center is located at 5555 North Marginal Road at the E. 55th Street Marina and is now open to the public. Here in this article are some great images of the center.

Source:

🔗: Cleveland Metroparks unveils new sailing center and waterfront restaurant at 55th Street Marina

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