Cleveland Growth Questions, Data Center Battles & Political Controversies — Crooked River Cast Show 57 🎙

April 20, 2026

The show opened with a heavy issue for Tom — and not the political kind. It was the riff from “Just Got Paid” by ZZ Top. Tom played two versions, convinced one was the real one. Robert tried to help… but the mystery remains.

Robert pointed out it was tax week, which made the song choice feel pretty fitting. He also admitted he hadn’t planned to talk about Iran — but Tom quickly steered the conversation to what he sees as a growing concern closer to home.

This past Thursday, the U.S. House approved legislation extending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian refugees through 2029. Ten Republicans joined Democrats to pass the bill, and two of them were from Ohio — Mike Turner of Dayton and Mike Carey of Columbus, whose districts include the Springfield area.

Robert and Tom made it clear that this issue isn’t going away. They plan to dig deeper into the details next week.

🌍 Iran Update — What Changed in the Last Few Days

After the opening conversation, Robert shifted to the international stage with an update on Iran, focusing on what had changed in just the last couple of days before the recording. The guys played several clips to walk listeners through the fast-moving developments and why the situation remains volatile.

Robert emphasized that events were evolving quickly — ceasefires, negotiations, and military positioning were all shifting in real time. Recent reports show tensions remain high, with Iran rebuilding military capacity and negotiations continuing under pressure.

The takeaway from the segment was straightforward:
This situation isn’t settled, and the next few days could matter just as much as the last few.

(No sources were provided during the segment — the discussion centered on recent developments and analysis.)

🩺 Acton’s Scandal Returns to the Spotlight

Former Ohio Health Director Amy Acton is back in the headlines, and the story isn’t going away quietly. Questions surrounding a past police visit have resurfaced, and critics are pushing hard on transparency and accountability. Robert and Tom explored how old controversies tend to resurface at the worst possible time — especially during a campaign. Robert and Tom took a lighter — but still pointed — approach to the ongoing headlines around Amy Acton. At one point, the guys jokingly asked, “Is Amy Acton always drunk?” — clearly meant as humor, but also as commentary on public appearances and the way political figures are perceived under the spotlight.

Sources:
🔗: Acton’s team defends 2019 police visit as a ‘simple argument’ amid GOP criticism
🔗: OPINION: Media Parrots Amy Acton’s ‘Simple Argument’ Line on 2019 Incident – Questions Go Unasked
🔗: Ohio Health Director’s Mother Comes Forward to Set the Record Straight About Daughter’s Troubled Past

⚠️ Putsch Event Controversy — Optics, Messaging, and Political Fallout

Casey Putsch For Ohio Govenor - Facebook

Robert and Tom dug into the controversy surrounding gubernatorial candidate Casey Putsch and an event that quickly drew backlash after comments referencing Hitler and Nazi imagery surfaced. What started as a campaign gathering turned into a public relations headache, with one Columbus-area restaurant canceling the event altogether.

The guys focused heavily on the optics — not just the comments themselves, but how quickly messaging can spiral in today’s political environment. Social media posts, campaign stunts, and provocative rhetoric can grab attention, but they can also trigger consequences just as fast.

They also played clips highlighting reactions to the situation and discussed how moments like this can define a campaign — sometimes more than policy ever will.

Sources:
🔗: Columbus-area restaurant cancels event for Ohio governor candidate, citing Hitler and Nazi comments
▶️ YouTube: Leftist dude thought he was tough… UNTIL THIS HAPPENED!!
🔗: Casey Putsch on X: “Drive your German car to the Brewery and Beer Hall rally and I’ll buy you a beer!”
🔗: Ohio gubernatorial candidate with rifle invites Ramaswamy to play ‘Cowboys and Indians’

🏛 Ravenna City Council — Local Government Gets Loud

A clear, well-articulated argument against a new data center in Ohio that is worth watching by Ravenna resident Will Hollingsworth

Local government meetings rarely make headlines, but when tempers flare and residents show up in force, things get interesting fast. The Ravenna council meeting highlighted just how heated community debates can become when citizens feel decisions are being made without their input. In one five-minute video shared on X with over 250,000 views, Ravenna resident Will Hollingsworth passionately makes the case against new AI data centers in his community. Definitely worth a watch and listen.

Sources:

🔗: Not in my backyard: Ohio residents force vote for yearlong moratorium on local data centers

▶️ YouTube: Ravenna City Council meeting

🏗 Data Centers vs. Neighborhoods — The Fight Moves to Lake County

Data centers promise jobs and tax revenue — but they also bring noise, land use concerns, and big infrastructure demands. Residents in Lake County are pushing back hard, even forcing a vote to slow things down. Robert and Tom framed it as the classic “progress vs. quality of life” debate that more Ohio communities will likely face.

Source:
🔗: Lake County community upset over proposed data center location

⚡ Who Pays for Ohio’s Power Line Upgrades?

Sixflashphoto/Wikimedia Commons
Central Ohio is a key destination for new data centers and power-transmission infrastructure.

Infrastructure upgrades are coming — but the big question is who gets the bill. Consumer advocates warn that ratepayers may be footing the cost for large-scale energy transmission projects. Robert and Tom dug into the financial ripple effects and why this issue deserves more attention before the invoices start arriving.

Source:
🔗: Ohio Consumers’ Counsel says power line proposal will cost electric consumers

📷 More Cameras on the Roads — Safety or Surveillance?

More than 30 new cameras designed to detect wrong-way drivers have been installed on highways across central Ohio.

ODOT is installing dozens of new cameras aimed at reducing wrong-way crashes and improving traffic safety. Supporters say it’s about saving lives. Skeptics worry about privacy and government overreach. The hosts explored both sides — and asked whether technology is solving problems or just creating new ones. Sounds like we are now entering the era of “Person of Interest.”

Sources:
🔗: Queue warning system traffic cameras coming to Cleveland
🔗: ODOT installs more than 30 new cameras across Franklin County to curb wrong-way drivers

🧪 Ohio’s Regulatory Sandbox — Innovation or Loophole?

Statehouse, Columbus, Ohio. (Carol M. Highsmith's America, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division)

Ohio lawmakers are considering a “universal regulatory sandbox,” which would allow companies to test new products and services under relaxed regulations. It sounds innovative — but critics warn it could open the door to reduced oversight. Robert and Tom unpacked what this could mean for businesses, consumers, and regulators alike.

Source:
🔗: The Ohio Senate considers legislation to create a universal regulatory sandbox to allow testing of new products and services

🔍 Expanding Investigator Powers — A Quiet but Powerful Proposal

Inspector General Randy Meyer points to a chart showing electronic records used in investigations into fraud in the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program. Nearly $7.6 billion in PUA benefits was distributed before the program ended in Ohio in 2021, and millions of dollars of payments were identified as fraudulent.

Another bill moving through Columbus would give state inspectors broader authority to investigate government employees. It’s the kind of change that doesn’t grab headlines — but could significantly shift accountability and oversight across state agencies.

Source:
🔗: Lead investigator of state employees in Ohio would get new power under Republican bill

📈 Cleveland Is Growing — But Not the Way You Think

According to the Census, more than 5,000 people moved to the Cleveland metropolitan area from abroad last year

Yes, Cleveland’s population is ticking upward — but the growth is largely driven by international migration. That raises bigger questions about workforce trends, housing demand, and long-term economic sustainability. Robert and Tom highlighted how the headline sounds positive, but the details matter.

Source:
🔗: Greater Cleveland population sees modest growth, fueled by international migration

😐 Cleveland Lands in the “Unhappy” Top 10

Erik Drost/Wikimedia Commons, licensed under the CC BY 2.0 - Cleveland’s economic instability and industrial decline have left parts of the city struggling with unemployment, poverty, and urban decay. These conditions can reduce residents’ sense of opportunity and well-being, creating an environment that feels stressful or limiting. Social services are often stretched, compounding the difficulty of addressing community needs.

While the city has notable hospitals and a vibrant arts scene, many residents still face the reality of financial strain. Crime rates, coupled with limited recreational spaces in some areas, can hinder overall life satisfaction. Cleveland reflects the struggles of older industrial cities adapting to modern economic shifts.

Cleveland showing up on a list of the country’s least happy cities sparked a lively conversation. Is it economic pressure? Crime? Weather? Or just perception? The hosts broke down the possible reasons — and whether the ranking reflects reality or reputation.

Source:
🔗: 10 unhappiest cities in the United States

🗳 Recall the Bibb Bobblehead?

Abbey Marshall /Ideastream Public Media
Juan Diaz, the Clevelander who filed a petition to recall Mayor Justin Bibb, holds up a sign that reads, "Recall the Bibble-head!!!"

A recall effort targeting Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb is gaining traction, and tensions outside City Hall are rising. Whether it succeeds or fizzles, Robert and Tom pointed out that the mere existence of a recall campaign signals deep frustration among some voters.

Source:
🔗: Petitioners file to recall Mayor Justin Bibb, dispute follows outside city hall

✈️ What Happens to Burke Airport?

Top-fuel drag racing could come to the Downtown Cleveland’s lakefront thanks to a new company Shore-to-Roar-to-Shore that responded to a request for qualifications from Mayor Justin Bibb’s administration regarding the reuse of Burke Lakefront Airport (WikiCommons).

The future of Burke Lakefront Airport is once again under debate, with new proposals on the table. Closing it could reshape Cleveland’s waterfront — but it would also affect major events like the Cleveland Air Show. The conversation highlighted how one decision could ripple across the region’s economy and identity.

Sources:
🔗: What happens to Cleveland Air Show if Burke Airport closes
🔗: City gets new offer for Burke Airport

🌟 Good Things

🐾 One Very Determined Pup

Alliance dog rescued after getting stuck 6′ down a groundhog hole(Cassidy Eggert and Jaden Corbi)

A dog in Alliance managed to get itself stuck six feet down a groundhog hole — and lived to tell the tale. Thanks to quick-thinking rescuers, the story had a happy ending and gave everyone a reason to smile. Sometimes the best headlines are the ones with muddy paws.

Source:
🔗: Alliance dog rescued after getting stuck 6′ down a groundhog hole

🎬 Shannon Elizabeth Tries Something New

Jim (Jason Biggs, left) is shocked when beautiful exchange student Nadia (Shannon Elizabeth) asks for help with her studies, while his friends Oz (Chris Klein) and Kevin (Thomas Ian Nicholas, right) look on in "American Pie." - Getty Images

The actress best known for American Pie is stepping into the subscription-content world. Whether it’s reinvention or curiosity, it’s another reminder that celebrities keep finding new ways to stay relevant in the digital age.

Source:
🔗: Shannon Elizabeth of ‘American Pie’ joins OnlyFans

🏈 Bernie Is Back — And Still Fighting

Photo by: TNA Wrestling
Bernie Kosar takes part in TNA Wrestling's Rebellion Showcase last Saturday at the Wolstein Center in Cleveland.

Cleveland legend Bernie Kosar marked five months since his liver transplant with a surprise appearance in a wrestling ring. It’s a comeback story full of grit, humor, and hometown pride — exactly the kind of resilience Cleveland fans love to see.

Source:
🔗: Bernie Kosar marks 5 months since his liver transplant with cameo in the pro wrestling ring

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

April 13, 2026

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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Ohio’s story is still being written—and we’re here to talk about it.

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

April 6, 2026

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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