Lake County, Ohio -- News, Views, & Politics

A lot of Republican's are Supporting tax hikes lately. Where do the Candidates for Commissioner Stand?

2012-01-11T23:01:00.000-05:00

Ray Sines is helping Dan Troy and Bob Awful-dish raise the sales tax 0.5%. Good job RINO Sines. Right on!

What a disgrace. Ray Sines. Dan Dunlap. Now, with a heavy heart we have to add Ed Zupancic. We have always liked Ed Zupancic. However, today's endorsement of a sales tax increase means Zupancic will lose all kind treatment on these pages.

Ray Sines' parting gift to the taxpayers in Lake County is higher taxes. Dan Dunlap was worked hard to justify raising taxes on Lake County residents while reducing services. That is no small feat, Mr. Dunlap!

Why could Ray Sines not just step down and allow the Republican Party in Lake County to appoint a successor, since he is not running for reelection?

The scary part is the number of Republican Office holder's and candidates that either support this tax increase or have supported tax increases (maybe some said they were against an income tax increase, but really were not).

There is a lot of Republicans supporting tax increases lately.

Where do Dave Fiebig, Dick Shreve and Linda Burhenne stand? Do they support tax increases in this economy? Do they understand the ramifications of Issue 2 failing?

Democrats Spending a Lot of Time on Primaries and Tax Levies

2011-12-07T22:52:00.000-05:00

Lake and Geauga Candidate and Issue Filings for the March 6 Primary

Commissioners Move to Raise your Taxes (w/your consent)

2011-12-07T21:13:00.000-05:00

Only you, well a majority of you, can help the Lake County Commissioners raise property taxes on all of us. According to the News-less-Herald, avoider of all news the establishment around here doesn't like, "Lake County Commissioners voted Tuesday ...." to give you the chance to raise taxes.

Bob Awful-dish and Dan Troy should be reminded during their campaigns of the numerous times they have helped raise taxes. They won't care though.

Dan Troy Friend of Frank Russo and Jimmy Dimora is Running for the Ohio House

2011-12-06T23:11:00.000-05:00

Lorraine Fende is useless and thankfully leaving the State Legislature. Side note: After divorcing Daniel Serge years ago, the Mayfield Heights Fire Captain that went to jail for secretly taping children, is marrying the Judge she has been shacking up with for years--Larry Allen.

Now, we have the possibility of having Dan Troy replace her. It can't get much worse.
Dan, Dan, Dan. It makes sense now; all those articles with you talking about the size of government and spending. Those articles didn't seem like you. It is clear now.

IF ANYONE OUT THERE IS LISTENING--YOU PEOPLE KNOW WHO YOU ARE--TAKE THE PICTURE ABOVE AND GET IT TOUCHED UP...AND MAKE GIANT BILLBOARDS OUT OF THE PICTURE!

More Choices

2011-12-06T22:57:00.000-05:00

That magical time is approaching: the deadline to file petitions to appear on the March Primary Ballot.

Leroy Township Trustee Linda Buhrenne is going to compete for the Republican nomination.

At least we are getting rid of RINO Sines. At least the entry of another republican candidate will force Dave Fiebig act more conservative.

Primaries are good and bad. On one hand there is competition in the market place of ideas. On ther other hand it is possible that candidates are bruised from a political beating.

Taxn' Ted and Judy Moran...nothing good can come from that either.

Do we have another choice?

2011-12-05T21:57:00.000-05:00

Welp, the filing deadline is around the corner--and, we have some candidates declaring by pulling and filing petitions.

Never-seen-a-tax-he-didn't-like---TED Andrzejewski has filed petitions to run for County Commissioner.

Tax-Hike-Ted is currently trying to raise taxes on Eastlake so that he can continue to lavish generous pay and benefits on "the workers." Eastlake residents must be ecstatic that may be able to get rid of Tax-Hike-Ted. Ted's levy failed last November and now he is going for three more in March!

An old favorite is back again.

Councilman Dave Fiebig fresh off a loss against Lorraine Fende last year and an income tax hike in Willoughby Hills has also pulled petitions to run for County Commissioner.

If you think about it Fiebig would be a good replacement for Sines. Think back to the almost primary challenge of Eastlake resident Mike Zuren that threatened Councilman Fiebig. Fiebg was known on these pages as the self described moderate.

As you al know Willoughby Hills is filthy with people who want to raise taxes and reward the workers. Weger, Somich, Reichelt, Chris Collins, ....Unfortunately, the stench of the recent income tax increase in Willoughby Hills will follow Fiebig. It may not be fair, but neither is life.

Issue 2 Failure Symptoms Surfacing in Lake County--proposed cuts (threats) and more levies to follow!

2011-11-26T12:08:00.000-05:00

Turkey day is over. Now it is time to face some hard realities.

Let's take the Crown Jewel of Lake County, Eastlake Ohio.

Eastlake is facing around a $2 million in shortfall in its 2012 budget.

The voters in Eastlake had the sense (not in every area on election day) to defeat the 4 mill levy/5 year levy that the elected officials and bargaining units wanted.

Now that SB 5 is dead the City has its usual tools to deal with its expenses: proposed layoffs and levies.

Imagine a world in which SB5 passed. The City of Eastlake and its elected officials could have told the bargaining units something along the lines of: "hey--our levy didn't pass. YOU WILL take $2 million in concessions, but everyone keeps their jobs."

No chance of that now. Just more levies and threats.

Yep. More threats (the City asking department heads to make lists of proposed cuts to threaten the residents with) and more levies (three proposed for March).

Mourning Over, Game On

2011-11-13T21:47:00.000-05:00

OK. Our mourning period for Issue 2 is done. It is game on.

SB5 has been killed by a swarm capital sucking parasites. These pests feed on the fruits (capital--money) of our society by gorging themselves with banked sick days, retirement in the 50's, gold plated benefits packages and leave the rest of us with a bill.

They killed any and all reform of the problems they have caused using and incestuous relationship with elected officials. In general, most elected officials are deathly afraid of the bargaining units working in their jurisdiction. These elected officials usually work in concert with the cops, firemen, and other workers to raise our taxes. The methods are always the same: bully, intimidate, scare, and lie to the public.

More later....

Harry Field's October Surprise: D.U.I. Arrest a couple of years ago

2011-11-06T21:55:00.001-05:00

Interesting. The News-less-Herald has been aware of this for awhile.

So wait a minute. The acting judge that is working hard to be the next judge was popped for a DUIy?

That's what it looks like.

The News-less-Herald hates the news--it is part of the Local Media/Goverment Complex.

Mentor Municipal Court TRC 0302413B

Well that was fast!

2011-11-06T21:47:00.000-05:00

A few days ago we learned that John Eklund will follow Judge Grendell-2, former State Senator Tim Grendell, to fill the OH-18 seat.

For months Taxn' Trustee Galloway has been slithering about the State of Ohio with State Senator Tom Patton trying to grease his way through the narrow pass guarded by the State Senate Republican Caucus. Too many people despite Taxn' Trustee Galloway.

Here's the inside baseball: Tom Patton (former democrat) met Taxn' Trustee Galloway at Blue Technologies...worked some of his...and was flipped from D to RINO in the process. Along the way Taxn' Trustee ticked off a lot of people. At the same time State Representative Ron Young was honing his conservative acumen and ticking off a lot of people too. Let's not forget former State Representative Callender; he voted for Taft budget--'nuff said (not really, this is just taking too much space). Last year Judge Grendell-2 ran for a few too many seats, but decided to abandon them both for an easy job on the bench. The long and the short is that Taxn' Trustee and Ron Young accumulated too many enemies. This left only John Eklund and Colleen O'toole as the compromise choices for OH-18. O'toole is nice enough--but, just wasn't going to cut it. The only one left standing was John Eklund.

Taxn' Trustee and his sycophants raged! Nasty facebook posts ensued. Sources tell us Taxn' Trustee was to rededicate himself to his constituents (read raising their taxes), his business (read working for both sides and threatening potential clients with primaries), ..., and family. Boo hoo. He wasn't going to run for office again. Boo hoo.

Guess was. Taxn' Trustee and Scott Marn want to be your next County Commissioners. How can that be? Taxn' Trustee just said he wasn't running for anything else; he was going to build this business (read recruiting dupe clients to threaten legitimate clients with primaries--that pretty Kyle-Sisk-esque).

Will this be another scenario where Taxn' Trustee pulls petitions for County Commissioner in a bid to scare someone into a deal? How will Taxn' Trustee's clients benefit from a threatened Commissioner's run?

Hey wait! Taxn' Trustee wasn't running for anything else!

Well that was fast!

Tune here for a lot more blow-by-blow coverage and analysis.

News-Herald Catches up on OH-18. You Mad Taxn' Trustee?

2011-11-03T18:18:00.001-04:00

The News-less-Herald is always behind...out of the loop...and refusing to publish various news.

They got the (blog) memo on the demise of Taxn' Trustee's hopes of becoming a State Legislator.

You mad Taxn' Trustee?

Tom Patton is raging!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Galloway camp weeps...and retools to cut and run to a county race.

...and Harry Field has an October Surprise (well, early November).

BREAKING: GALLOWAY DENIED SENATE SEAT

2011-11-03T13:43:00.000-04:00

LOL! TAXN' TRUSTEE DENIED OH-18 SEAT! LOL!

IT WILL BE--WAIT FOR IT--JOHN EKLUND.

Tick-Tock-Tick-Tock: OH-18 Appointment on the Clock!

2011-11-02T22:14:00.000-04:00

That's right, it is time. It is November 2nd. The Ohio Senate Republican Caucus has a decision to make. A screening committee consisting of seven Ohio Senate Republicans will make a recommendation to the Caucus.

The actual appointment will probably not happen until after November 8th--the day Issue 2 goes down--Election Day.

Anyhow, we know the leading contenders are State Rep. Ron Young, Taxn' Trustee Chris Galloway, Former State Rep. Jaimie Callender, and the dark horse John Eklund.

The real question is whether State Sen. Tom Patton (former democrat and Galloway client) can whip up the votes for Tax loving Taxn' Trustee Chris Galloway. Can Patton (former democrat and Galloway client) convince the caucus not pick State Rep. Ron Young?

The question no one will answer is whether or not the caucus cares about Taxn' Trustee Chris Galloway working for both the Ohio Democratic Party and Ohio Republicans at the same time.

Who in the World (Lake County) Will Replace RINO Sines?

2011-10-24T22:31:00.002-04:00

RINO Sines, Lake County Commissioner, and Red State Strategies' Client is not going to run for County Commissioner. That's old news.

Who is going to run to replace RINO Sines?

Sines' Wikipedia needs some help by the way. That may become a side project for us.

However, we want to open up the discussion on who will replace RINO Sines.

The filing deadline to participate in the Spring Primary is December 7th. The party machines hate primaries.

Let's start with the D's.

Now, that old man Larry Allen is out and needs to keep providing for his soon to be bride, Lorraine Fende-Serge, we think he would be a good fit in the State House.

That leaves Lorraine Fende-Serge as a possible candidate for Lake County Commissioner.

The other obvious choice is Judy Moran, Willowick Council President.

Cat fight!

Lessons to Learn from Cuyahoga County Corruptions Woes

2011-10-22T11:23:00.000-04:00

We will talk about this issue in more detail, especially as it relates to Lake County.

As you all know yesterday's news brought more us another reminder why the inhabitants of offices, board rooms, etc. need to be closely watched and scrutinized.

Former County Commissioner and an alleged co-conspirator have had additional charges filed on them related to extortion, racketeering, and running a criminal enterprise.

This is no surprise. This is not the new lesson to learn either.

However, in the transcripts of wiretapped conversations we get a glimpse of people who think that they are above the law, do not respect the law, and view the public treasury as an ATM.

Only a fool would think that similar attitudes and behaviors are not had by Lake County Municipal, County, and other leaders. Perhaps for the moment the headlines have not featured the names of a local Mayor, Councilman, or County Official. That day may or may not be coming...soon....

What did Judge Grendel Mean? Who was he talking about?

2011-10-21T21:22:00.000-04:00

About a year ago then State Sen. Grendel said the following when discussing who could replace him when thought about leaving taking the House Seat he won while serving as the OH-18 State Senator:

"I have a duty to make sure that whoever fills the other seat shares the principles and values of the constituents who elected me to that seat," he said.

"The second seat needs to have a real fiscally conservative, family-values Republican who has a record that matches those qualifications."

What did he mean? Who was he talking about?

Meet Your Next Western Lake County Judge

2011-10-20T22:15:00.002-04:00

Best in the Field.

Who else is running against Judge Field?

The Vacated OH-18 Seat

2011-10-20T21:33:00.003-04:00

Decisions, decisions, decisions.

Last week the News-less-Herald chronicled the thirteen people (most of whom have no hope) that would like to replace Judge Tim Grendell.

Here is the list they posted:

* John Advey, no residency available

* Jamie Callender, Concord Township

* Walter “Skip” Claypool, Chester Township

* Wayne Clough, Madison Village

* John Eklund, Chardon

* Christopher Galloway, Concord Township

* Becky Lynch, Mentor

* Colleen O’Toole, Concord Township

* Michael Petruziello, no residency available

* Mark Saric, Chester Township

* Charles Stevens, Chester Township

* Dr. Ted Peterson, no residency available

* State Rep. Ron Young, Leroy Township

OK. So you can see that our scanning committee has narrowed it down.

Three candidates are well know: former State Rep. Jaimie Callender, State Rep. Ron Young, and TAXN' trustee chris galloway. John Eklund is a downtown lawyer who could be a compromise candidate.

What's the compromise? Well, most of the political world hates Taxn' Trustee Galloway--save former Democrat-turned-Republican State Sen. Tom Patton. Galloway, besides working to increase taxes on everyone, has run a lot of dirty campaigns. Galloway has worked both sides at once.

Rep. Ron Young on the other hand has not exactly won a lot of friends. Ron Young has the support and endorsement (behind the scenes) of U.S. Rep. LIEtourette. However, LIEtourette is taking heat from the unions on Ron Young.

No Young? No TAXN' trustee galloway? John Eklund would be a good compromise.

Let's hope for a brutal battle in the primary. Both Galloway and Callender are candidates for the general.

Dusting off the Keyboard

2011-10-01T21:35:00.002-04:00

The tipping point has been reached. We can't let the dust get any thicker on the keyboard. Too many tax hikes and con men plying their trade.

The flim-flam man Taxn' Trustee Chris Galloway got a puff piece (w/video) in the New-Less-Herald the other day.

See the Taxn' Trustee Galloway write-up here. Watch the video and be prepared to laugh.

How nauseating. This guy raises taxes all over the county: Dunlap's bail out, the end-run around ORC to collect an income tax, ..., and now he is working on a sales tax increase.

Worse yet--Taxn' Trustee Galloway wants access to more people to raise taxes on. He wants the OH-18 Senate seat appointment and to run for the new seat in the general.

Look at Galloway's lame website here.

Flim-flam. Taxn' Trustee Galloway.

BREAKING: INTRODUCING JUDGE GRENDELL

2011-09-09T17:51:00.000-04:00

That's right, Sen. Grendel is going to be Judge Grendel sometime in late September.

Who will replace Sen. Grendel? Probably Taxn' Trustee Galloway.

Chase Bank in Willoughby Hills robbed for 3rd time in three months - news-herald.com

2011-07-12T22:53:00.000-04:00

Chase Bank in Willoughby Hills robbed for 3rd time in three months - news-herald.com

Three times in three months.

Disgusting.

How is that safety force levy working for you Mr. Weger? How about you Mr. Scamich? Mr. Reichelt? Chief what's his name--how are you guys even still sitting out there on the side of I90?

Hey Chief Collins, Mayor Waster! Three times in three months?!?

What a laughing stock!

SB5!!!

Safety Force Levy Wasted? Another day, Another bank Robbed in Willoughby Hills.

2011-07-12T19:15:00.001-04:00

Another day, another bank robbed in Willoughby Hills. How many banks in Willoughby Hills have been robbed this year? 3? 4? 5?

Perhaps the Willoughby Hills police can spend a few less hours on the express lanes of I90 and do some patrolling in the vicinity of banks?

Do you think Mayor Waster's (Weger's) task force doing the performance audit (after his tax increase) suggested this?

Probably not.

Councilman Scamich and Mayor Waster got their tax increase for the Police and Fire...but, the banks in Willoughby Hills keep getting robbed.

Jaimie Callender Resigns from Mentor Library Board

2011-06-22T21:23:00.000-04:00

Jaimie Callender is ramping up the campaign.

Since there are rumblings that State Senator Tim Grendell may take a job as a judge we think Mr. Callender would be best advised to spend a looooooooooooootttttt of time in Columbus with the Republican Senate Caucus lobbying for Grendell's seat. That's if--if Grendel takes the judgeship that opened in Geauga County.

Anything to keep Taxn' Trustee Galloway out of Columbus. Anything!

The Willoughby Hills Solution

2011-06-22T21:15:00.000-04:00

It has been decided that every time the issue of tax increases to pay for "the help," that is safety forces and the rest of the folks that have their hands in our pocket---Willoughby Hills will be referenced.

LOL!

C'mon...it is mid June and hot. Laugh a little.

Anyhow, a story over at CNBC caught our attention. In a nut shell a couple of academic types did a study and concluded that State and Local Government would have to raise taxes $1, 400 per household if they are to fulfill promises to public employees.

Read what we call, "The Willoughby Hills Solution," here.

Yep. We are $2.7 trillion short on the promises that people like those who run Willoughby Hills, Willoughby, Lake County,..., and the State of Ohio.

Shame on you Bob Weger, shame on you Dave Anderson--shame on you all!

Local mayors wail and gnash teeth about State budget

2011-05-31T22:47:00.000-04:00

Over at Cleveland.com today several local mayors whine and moan about the evil Governor Kaisich's proposed budget.

To our dismay, Willoughby Mayor Dave Anderson showed his true colors yet again. Sigh.

"Willoughby Mayor Dave Anderson, also a republican, said local mayors can't afford to be philosophical when their job is to patch streets, fix sewers, and provide emergency services."

Boo hoo, Mayor Anderson. Boo hoo.

Perhaps you and your greedy, inefficient cohorts should have thought about that years ago.

Case in point.

Mayor Waster over in Willougbhy Hills and its City Council fooled just enough citizens into believing a tax increase was needed. This was accomplished by lying about the projected carry over in the City's Budget. Mayor Waster, Councilman Scamich, and the rest claimed only a $28, 000 carry over. Woops! A better than $400, 000 carry over was recorded. It gets better. Mayor Waster appointed a committee and had them do a performance audit of the City, AFTER the tax increase, to see where money could be saved.

Just crazy.

Returning to Dave Anderson--take Dave Anderson's Road to Nowhere; the City of Willoughby spent $5 million on roads and utilities to a development that never materialized. Anderson has kept a City owned Golf Course and Municipal Airport: all major drains on the City Budget.

It get's worse.

Willoughby City Council pays about $19, 500 per year for the health insurance of several City Council members.

Take Jeff Black. Councilman Jeff Black is an attorney with a private practice. Perhaps he could pay his own health insurance? That's 1/3 of a cop's salary.

Dave Anderson's Road to Nowhere--Now a road to Federal Court

2011-05-22T22:05:00.000-04:00

Dave Anderson and the City of Willoughby have been overspending on Big Government for years. Municipal golf courses, airports, and real estate speculation!

Back at the end of March Rick Osborne thought it would be a good idea to antogonize the Federal Government with an article blaming them for his inability to plan his real estate development project.

Ahhhh yes. Dave Anderson chimed in trying to explain why he blew $5.4 million back in 2004 putting in infrastructure at the behest of Rick Osborne. Steve Lie-tourette chimed in too--always eager to justify (to the donor)--what they were getting for that large donation.

Now the strong arm of the law!

The City of Willoughby and Rick Osborne were sued in Federal Court! The gist of the suit is that The City and the Developer dumped excavated materials into wetlands.

What a waste. $100, 000's in legal fees will be spent on top of the $5.4 million already dawn the sewer.

Brooklyn Raising Taxes a part of the Story

2011-05-21T10:15:00.000-04:00

No one missed yesterday's headline: "Brooklyn losing American Greetings, its largest and most high-profile employer."

In recent days revelations of AG's largest shareholder's, the Weiss family, owning a stake in the Crocker Park Development which will be adjacent to the ne HQ have surfaced.

This undoubtedly played a role in the relocation of the HQ. Furthermore, the dog and pony show and rhetoric about a move was clearly orchestrated to fatten up the move with corporate welfare.

However, Brooklyn's raising of City income taxes could not have helped.

Raising City income taxes were just the nail in the coffin.

Mayor Waster, Councilman Scamich, ..., local school boards and the like are not going to help the cause of a dying region by raising taxes to keep pay, benefits, bonuses and other perks coming to public employees.

Interesting Critique of Candidates in Chardon Muny Court Race

2011-04-25T21:41:00.000-04:00

The guy responsible for the Geauga Constitutional has an interesting blog.We have pointed out in the past that this man has come under attack from RINOs in Geauga County that have failed to study the supreme court

Not the point this time.

Rather we are interested in this analysis of the Chardon Muny Court Race, which can be read here.

Chardon Muny Court Primary: Candidate caught admitting he tried to deceive public

2011-04-22T16:14:00.000-04:00

Today the News-Herald discusses how the Chardon Muny Court Primary is getting brutal.

Trustee Matt Lynch, brother of former Euclid Mayor Dave Lynch, is filed a complaint against Dennis Coyne with the Ohio Elections Commission; both are republican party primary candidates, along with Daniel Bond, to replace Judge Mark Hassert.

The interesting part about situation is that Matt Lynch's website has a recorded phone call between Dennis Coyne and the Chief of the Bainbridge Police Department. In the phone call Coyne outright admits he tried to deceive the public! Wow!

One has to wonder who is working for which candidate and who cooked up the offending campaign literature.

This is not even debatable! Coyne was recorded admitting he lied.

Click to go to the website with the audio of the phone call.

Does public-records plaintiff seek access, or cash? | Columbus Dispatch Politics

2011-04-21T00:09:00.000-04:00

Does public-records plaintiff seek access, or cash? | Columbus Dispatch Politics

The guy in this article seems to have turned the table on John Q. Law.

In a nut shell, a guy made a public records request per Ohio Revised Code (ORC) for 20 years of 911 recordings--form 1975 - 1995--from the Ohio City of New Philadelphia. The City could not produce the records pursuant ORC. ORC provides that the party that does not produce the requested records can be fined a $1, 000 for non-compliance per request per day. So, the guy calculates that he is entitled to $4.9 mil and asks for the money.

Law suits follow.

OK. You elected officials that read these pages will howl that this is a frivolous request and a frivolous law suit.

Just because the government and its agents can't do their job does it make the request frivolous?

Perhaps some public records requests will go into some Lake County entities.

Just Who is Harry Field?

2011-04-19T22:51:00.000-04:00

Growing tired of seeing the Harry Field signs around town? You must be tired of "Best in the Field."

It is not just the corny slogan that is troubling--it is also that Judy Moran is campaign committee treasurer. That's right, another member of the Willowick Democrat Mafia wants to help keep a strangle hold on Lake County. The Willowick ties run deep.

Lorraine Fende, Judge Larry Allen's girl friend, cut her political teeth on the payroll of Willowick as council member, council president, and Mayor.

Harry Field is Larry Allen's magistrate. See the Willowick tie-in?

So Larry Allen and Lorraine Fende want to foist Harry Field on us do they?

Let's hope not.

Schneider Heads to Jail for 5 days

2011-04-17T23:49:00.000-04:00

90 day jail sentence. 85 days suspended. Six month license suspension. $675 fine.

Mentor Municipal Court TRC 1100215A

UPDATED: Breaking: Rob Frost to Step Down Later this Year

2011-04-08T19:51:00.002-04:00

Delusional Rob Frost, paid Chairman of the Republican Party of Cuyahoga County (RPCC), thinks he can win a Seat in the U.S. House.

Yeah right...and the republicans will win something in Cuyahoga County.

Candiate Watch

2011-04-07T21:18:00.001-04:00

Willoughby Muny Court: Karen Kowal V. Harry Field

Current OH-18 Senate District: Some (D) V. Jaimie Callender (R) or Taxn' Trustee Galloway (allegedly R)

Current OH-62: Larry Allen (D) V. Some (R)

Current OH-63: Some (D) V. Ron Young (R)

Where does Lorraine Fende fit in? Where does Dan Troy fit in? Politicans, due largely to their ego, don't play nice and won't do what is best for the people or the party. The smart play for the Dems would be Dan Troy running for the State House, and Lorraine Fende running for the Senate Seat. That won't happen though.

The current OH-62 race which Troy SHOULD run for will most likely see Larry Allen first Dave Fiebig.

The most fun part of all this will be the scorched earth primary between Jaimie Callender and Taxn' Trustee Galloway.

BREAKING: Rob Frost to Resign as Republican Party of Cuyahoga County Chairman.

2011-04-07T21:16:00.003-04:00

Frost is delusional. Frost thinks he can win an election.

Willoughby Hills budgets with caution - news-herald.com

2011-04-06T13:23:00.000-04:00

Willoughby Hills budgets with caution - news-herald.com We have held WH's elected officials feet to the fire, and more tranparency has resulted. LAst year when we beat their tax hike back they progressively told more of their story to the NH and public. However, no one has talked much about the lying that was done over the amount of carry-over. When Weger and the gang started the tax hike process last year he claimed that carry-over would be about $30, 000. Woops! The article above has carry-over around $430, 000! Small mistake. Weger and the gang got their tax hike anyhow.

NH Asks: Why do Businesses Fail in this Economy?

2011-04-05T20:30:00.000-04:00

Over at the NH's website they as "Why do Businesses Fail in this Economy?"

There are many reasons.

One reason is taxes and tax increases. Oh, another: fees.

Willoughby Hills decided to punish some people who work in its cooperation limits with a tax hike. Eastlake decided to heap fees on internet cafes. Townships and school boards have increased property taxes.

Don't follow the lead of the small minded leaders and raise taxes. Please don't hurt our employers.

PLEA DEAL WATCH

2011-03-28T22:17:00.002-04:00

Today, Mark Schneider has a court appearance for his alleged driving under the influence. We are watching for the Plea Deal that he is negotiating.

Schneider-dui

Memo to Local Elected Officials: Tax Raises have Consequences

2011-03-26T15:40:00.000-04:00

Caterpillar tells Illinois (paraphrasing) "you raised our income taxes, so we may leave!"

In a nut shell, the CEO of Caterpillar is unhappy that the State of Illinois raised income taxes 66%. Many governors from nearby States, and as far as Texas, wrote to the CEO and said "hey, come here! we have lower taxes!"

Good stuff.

So, in Ohio many local entities raised taxes and lied about the reasons they need to do it (read Willoughby Hills, Willoughby Eastlake Schools, Lakeland Community College, Concord and other Townships). Cities like Willoughby rushed to negotiate contracts and give their bargaining units raises.

Fast forward January 2011: John Kaisich and Shannon Jones roll into town (CBUS). Public sector unions attacked. Local government fund slashed.

Right on, right on.

At least the county commissioners cut the budget, maybe it was only about 6%. It is actually shocking. No immediate discussion of raising the sales tax. County departments told to live with it. Shocking.

We do see clearly now the lying that went on over the past year: Willoughby Hills' elected officials and Lakeland Officials and Willoughby-East Lake Board Members and Taxn' Trustee Galloaw (with other trustees), out of breath.

The picture is clear: these people lied about the need for tax increases. Take Willoughby Hills. There was $100's of carry over, not the approximately $30, 000 people were told. These people lied.

Latourette Earns that Most Liberal Republican in Ohio Rating

2011-03-22T22:28:00.000-04:00

Latourette on SB5:

LaTourette said he won't endorse the state collective bargaining bill. 'Being a lawyer, I've never seen the legal system more efficient than sitting down and negotiating over wages and benefits,' the former Lake County prosecutor said.

Latourette called the most liberal Republican Rep. in Ohio.

You are sad Steve. Pathetic. You really did become everything you said you wouldn't when you went to Washington. You don't even try to hide your horn (RINO horn).

You won't run against Sherrod Brown. You will bang the drums a little and make some noise, but you won't run.

Enjoy your houses in Virginia (i.e. the lobbyist wife's houses).

State lays off 99 tax workers | Columbus Dispatch Politics

2011-03-16T21:22:00.000-04:00

State lays off 99 tax workers | Columbus Dispatch Politics

The tax department seems like a great place to start with layoffs.

This article points out common sense reforms that need to be utilized in every State Office. For instance, since 80% of people e-file their taxes the amount of visits to regional walk-in centers went down drastically. Less employees needed. We can not just keep the payroll bloated to be nice and the union rosters swollen.

Protesters greet Kozlowski during visit to Conneaut

2011-03-15T21:18:00.000-04:00

Protesters greet Kozlowski during visit to Conneaut

Casey Kozlowski certainly was in the lion's den at the Conneaut City Council meeting. Angry pro-public-employ-union council members armed with window dressing resolutions and angry public employees foaming at the mouth greeted Kozlowski at the Council meeting.

Kozlowski is in a tough spot. OH-99 is D. No doubt about it.

The Ohio House would no doubt pass SB5 with amendements, however, it is not clear if Kozlowski will stand by his principals with his vote. Think about that carefully.

House leadership (Batchelder) could count up the votes and figure out which Representatives could be allowed to ceremonially vote "No" on an amended bill.

This would allow Kozlowski to pacify the deranged public employee protesters, union bosses, pro-union council members and the like.

How about Lake County?

Ron Young will not let us down.

Lorraine Fende is an idiot beholden to unions.

The Details: Governor Kaisich's "Jobs Budget"

2011-03-15T14:46:00.002-04:00

Kasich said those governmental units will get money back by sharing services and relief from the state on such issues as requirements to pay prevailing (union) wages.

About 400 school districts are expected to see increases in state-generated funding. Kasich said aid to both K-12 and higher education "slightly increases" in his budget. The increases in state aid amount to $170 million for K-12 schools, $62 million for higher education, said Budget Director Tim Keen.

Here is Governor Kaisich's Budget and its estimated savings. There will be a summary coming soon from the Governor's office.

The Jobs Budget

The Savings Book

Kasich's budget slashes aid to local goverments, libraries | Columbus Dispatch Politics

2011-03-15T13:05:00.000-04:00

Kasich's budget slashes aid to local goverments, libraries | Columbus Dispatch Politics

YES! YES! YES!

The only problem is the Bob Weger's, the Dave Anderson's, the Keith Millers, the Morris Beverage (lying Morris Beverage) will be sticking their hands out for more.

Lier Morris Beverage made it clear that he foresaw this state budget and finally admitted in the News-less-Herald that the levy snookered Lake County into approving (via misleading mailers) was to fight a budget cut.

Good thing Dave Anderson and Bob Weger negotiated all those contracts recently with safety forces.

Kasich budget will include cuts, cuts, more cuts | Columbus Dispatch Politics

2011-03-13T08:33:00.000-04:00

Kasich budget will include cuts, cuts, more cuts | Columbus Dispatch Politics

You can already hear the wailing and gnashing of teeth (not just form public sector sponges either).

Remember with the Rev. former Gov. Strickland threatened to cut (actually) proposed cuts to the libraries. Oh gosh. It was bad. Angry librarians put signs up next to the scratched DVDs urging people to write Rev. former Gov. Ted.

Now, with cuts to the local Gov. fund likely coming you can here, "Safety Levy!" being screamed by money hungry union friendly mayors and city councils.

Some have prepared.

The liar that is the head of Lake Land Community College said he saw this coming, but deceived the public with threats of turning people away.

"Lakeland Community College President Morris Beverage said the anticipation of budget woes was one reason the college put a levy on the ballot in November."

Lake Metroparks proposes zero-growth budget - news-herald.com

2011-03-11T10:21:00.000-05:00

Lake Metroparks proposes zero-growth budget - news-herald.com

"Included in the budget is $8.56 mil for salaries, $1.23 mil for retirement benfits, and $983, 200 for health care."

Lol!

That's for 126 employees! That is an AVERAGE TOTAL COMPENSATION OF $85, 501 (salary+bennies), or $67, 936 in direct salary on average.

That's the "middle class" that war is currently being waged on.

Life is good when you work for Ellen Folley Kessler and all the people and bussinesses that benefit from Lake Metro Parks.

Commisioners to Jim Brown and Dave Anderson: Go find your own money!

2011-03-08T17:35:00.000-05:00

Commisioners to Jim Brown and Dave Anderson: Go find your own money!

The News-Herald today obtained quotes from all three Lake county Commisioners that translate to: Hey! If you want your own Airport (in Jim Brown's case) use your own money! Also, we are not going to correct your poor financial decisions (in Dave Anderson's case) to get involved with a failing airport that can't sustain itself.

Since the taxpayers won't be buying, Jim Brown won't be getting his own airport...for now! You better beleive that Jim Brown and Dave Anderson will by lobbying for other people's money to buy (in Jim Brown's case) and/or run (in the case of both Brown and Dave Anderson) the airport.

NH: Public hearing on Lost Nation Airport set for Tuesday

2011-03-07T22:35:00.000-05:00

There is a public meeting tommorow regarding the fate of Lost Nation Airport.

The bottom line: Lost Nation is failed, hobby airport. The City of Willoughby, or any City of its size, has absolutely no business owning and operating an airport. Lake County, with its whopping 230,000 residents, has no business getting involved with Lost Nation Airport. The driving force behind Willoughby dumping Lost Nation on the County is Jim Brown and his friends.

Jim Brown (Classic Automotive Group and Classic Aviation) wants his own (essentially) private airport. Brown built a hanger at Lost Nation.

Question: If Jim Brown and his friends think the airport is so valuable--why don't they buy the Lost Nation Airport?

Answer: Jim Brown won't his his own money if he can use the public's money.

State workers' pay, benefit cuts near end | Columbus Dispatch Politics

2011-03-04T23:51:00.000-05:00

State workers' pay, benefit cuts near end | Columbus Dispatch Politics

CUT! CUT!

Ashtabula Star Beacon: County airport flying high in debt

2011-03-03T14:59:00.000-05:00

County airport flying high in debt

Grendell and Patton: This is talking about you!

2011-03-02T19:09:00.005-05:00

While organized labor tends to support Democratic candidates, there are a number of Republican senators with ties to labor groups, especially police and fire unions, who have been reluctant to sever those ties by supporting this bill.

This is a Quote from the Raw Dealer about the Ohio Senate passing SB5.

Tim, you are so transparent. Your campaign finance reports tell the story. You too Tom Patton.

Grendell for Good Government is a taker of Public Union money. Here is an example of Grendell taking money from the Fraternal Order of Police. Wait. Didn't Grendell try to exempt safety forces from SB5?

Grendell for Good Govt

Senate Bill 5 moves to floor for vote (UPDATED) - news-herald.com

2011-03-02T14:33:00.000-05:00

Senate Bill 5 moves to floor for vote (UPDATED) - news-herald.com

To our amazement, the News-Herald is actually covering relavent news in near real time. Shocking.

UPDATED: Sen Shannon Jones to introduce OMNIBUS of amendments to SB 5

2011-03-01T15:22:00.002-05:00

Today State Sen Shannon Jones will introduce an omnibus resolution of amendments to SB5. A hearing will occur today with no vote. The committe that will have hearing today us expected to vote on Wednedsay or Thursday.

Coverage in the Dispatch, here.

The News-Less Herald is silent as usual. The Raw Dealer does little better.

Wonder why Tom Patton is so quiet?

Ralph King and the Cleveland Tea Party Patriots cover Hollywood Tim Grendell's postering, here.

Tim, you have hacked off so many people that Latourette's job may be out of your reach for ever.

What? Layoffs? What Happened to Galloway's and Dunlap's Tax Hike?

2011-02-26T15:12:00.000-05:00

Layoffs hitting the Lake County Sherif's Department.

Taxn' Trustee Chris Galloway, his friends, and Sherif Dan Dunlap worked hard to raise the taxes of residents of Lake County that are guaranteed protection via the Sherif.

Some called this Taxn' Trustee Galloway's "bailout" for (client) Commissioner Ray Sines and potential Client Dan Dunlap.

So, why the layoffs in the Lake County Sherif's Department?

Q: Who are the most liberal in Ohio?

2011-02-25T23:38:00.000-05:00

A: U.S. Sherrod Brown and U.S. Rep Steve Latourette!

New vote rating ties Ohio's Sherrod Brown for most liberal in Senate, Jim Jordan for House's most conservative (Plain Dealer Open Blog)

"Bainbridge Township's Steve LaTourette rated 159th, making him the state's most liberal Republican out of the House of Representatives's 435 members."

Sherrod Brown is no surprise. Brown is a liberal, Pan-Leninist Scumbag.

Latourette?

No surprise to your mighty blog. Regular readers know that these pages hold Latourette's feet to the fire.

This should make Latourette perfect to face Sherrod Brown.

No Sympathy: Lake County commissioners, Election Board battling out budget

2011-02-23T23:03:00.000-05:00

The News-Herald actually covered something interesting today. They reported that the Board of Commissioners and the Board of Elections are squabbling over the budget.

It seems for whatever reason that the Board of Commissioners is taking a stand with BOE and giving them less money than they want. The Commissioners even have suggested furlough days! Good.

Dan Troy, according to the article, suggested shutting the BOE down for two weeks.

That's a good start Dan. How about shutting it down and furloughing the employees for four weeks? Maybe two different two week shut downs?

At first pass the BOE employees at least two relatives of Elected Officials representing Lake County. It's almost certain there is at least another.

Anyways, we are flat broke in this country. Every level of government is bankrupt.

Cut.

Official Statement from Sen. Grendell's Office

2011-02-23T13:15:00.001-05:00

Thank you for contacting Senator Grendell regarding SB 5.

First of all, Senator Grendell does not support the bill in this form.
He does not support the total elimination of binding arbitration.
Senator Grendell is looking at other options and researching
alternatives employed by other states. The state of New Jersey has
imposed an economic based cap on binding arbitration and Senator
Grendell is exploring this possibility as well as other alternatives.
Again, Senator Grendell does not support SB 5 in this form and he
suggests that you contact Senator Jones (email: SD07@senate.state.oh.us)
the sponsor of the bill and make her aware of your thoughts regarding
the bill.

Thank you for contacting Senator Grendell and please don't hesitate to
contact the office if we can be of any assistance to you in the future.

2011-02-23T09:55:00.000-05:00

"We are broke in this state because time and time again politicians of both political parties ran from the tough decisions and punted them down the road for another day," Walker said in an address to state residents Tuesday night.

--Gov. Scott Walker last night (from Reuters article)

2011-02-22T21:32:00.000-05:00

2011-02-22T16:28:00.002-05:00

Dems in Indy defect now to block votes on union legislation.

Seats on one side of the Indiana House were nearly empty today as House Democrats departed the the state rather than vote on anti-union legislation.

A source tells the Indianapolis Star that Democrats are headed to Illinois, though it was possible some also might go to Kentucky. They need to go to a state with a Democratic governor to avoid being taken into police custody and returned to Indiana.

Seitz laments handling of collective-bargaining bill

2011-02-22T15:47:00.001-05:00

Seitz laments handling of collective-bargaining bill

Seitz, Grendell, Patton, ..., you other wobblies--you are disgusting and a disgrace.

Dispatch: Teachers unions oppose boosting retirement share

2011-02-22T15:45:00.000-05:00

Teachers unions oppose boosting retirement share

Surprised? Think the unions are going to cooperate on ways to fix the budget? Nope.

Grendell's Disgusting Stand on Senate Bill 5 (SB 5)

2011-02-20T22:06:00.003-05:00

These pages have always been nice to State Sen. Tim Grendell. Throughout Grendell's attention grabbing antics, death matches with his party on the local and state level, and support for Mark Schneider--these pages always gave him the benefit of the doubt.

Grendell's luck has ran out.

"I believe in general the bill goes too far," Grendell said. "When talking about labor situations, you need to have a balance. If problems with the current system are too costly to taxpayers and too favorable to employers we need to address those issues.
"As written, Senate Bill 5 essentially tips the balance in a way that eliminates any protections for people who work as public employees."

It's just disgusting Tim. Sick.

Do you really think that taking the side of public unions is going to help you replace Steve Latourette one day? Are the unions going to help repair the relationships with local and State Party people you hacked off?

No.

Being conservative would have helped you.

Tim, it's quite clear now why the mention of your name illicits a role of the eyes from anyone who knows anything about politics around here.

Caving

2011-02-20T18:23:00.000-05:00

Recent tweets from U.S. Rep Steve Latourette:

2/12/2011

SteveLaTourette Steve LaTourette

The Continuing Resolution (H.R. 1) seeks to cut 100 billion off the President's #budget request. http://tinyurl.com/4ho6t35 #ohio #pledge

2/19/2011

SteveLaTourette Steve LaTourette

The House has approved $61B in #spending #cuts, the largest discretionary spending cut in history: http://tinyurl.com/4aujhnh #ohio

Boy oh boy...less than 1 week goes by and Latourette and the Republicans cave in on $39 billion.

Today's coverage on the issue.

Ohio Democrats can't stall collective-bargaining vote by fleeing | Columbus Dispatch Politics

2011-02-19T21:53:00.000-05:00

Ohio Democrats can't stall collective-bargaining vote by fleeing | Columbus Dispatch Politics

Yeah, but Sen Tim Grendell is on the fence? Against the bill? Is Grendell really a conservative? Is Grendell thinking that standing with Labor Unions will help him to the U.S. House if Latourette moves on?

Rumor has it

2011-02-19T09:17:00.002-05:00

Yesterday we showed a list of wobbly State Senators that are having a hard time deciding whether or not to support Senate Bill (SB) 5.

Rumor has it Tim Grendell is not going to support SB 5.

We will keep you posted.

Wis. governor: GOP won't be 'bullied' by union bill protesters - The Hill's Blog Briefing Room

2011-02-18T21:13:00.000-05:00

Wis. governor: GOP won't be 'bullied' by union bill protesters - The Hill's Blog Briefing Room

Please God, give these Governor's and the respective State Legislators the strength to follow through on what is being promised now: the crushing blow to collective bargaining, the right to strike, the end of binding arbitration, and increased payment by public employees to the cost of their benefits.

Lord in the Great State of Ohio, be with Governor Kaisich; be with State Sen. Jones, AND ESPECIALLY BE WITH THE FOLLOWING STATE SENATORS that might be wobbly:

Senator Majority Leader Jimmy Stewart (R-Albany)
Sen. Frank LaRose (R-Fairlawn)
Sen. Bill Seitz (R-Cincinnati)
Sen. Scott Oelslager (R-Canton)
Sen. Gayle Manning (R-North Ridgeville)
Sen. Jim Hughes (R-Columbus)
Sen. Bill Beagle (R-Tipp City)

News-Herald: Eastlake cyber cafés could soon face regulations like those in nearby cities - news-herald.com

2011-02-18T15:00:00.000-05:00

Eastlake cyber cafés could soon face regulations like those in nearby cities - news-herald.com

Yeah. That is the ticket. Enact new laws to tax the opening of new businesses. That is a way to grow the economic base, yeah.

Dispatch: Officials praise limits on unions

2011-02-16T21:07:00.000-05:00

Another Day, another raucous protest by union thugs in Columbus

Union thugs boo those they disagree with, and local officials beg for help in negotiating with said thugs.

Wonder if Bob Weger was down in Columbus with the unions thugs?

Dispatch: Collective-bargaining bill leads busy Senate week

2011-02-15T22:16:00.000-05:00

Unions thugs descend on State House

Thank God for the Ohio Government Section of the Columbus Dispatch. The good Lord knows that the News-Less Herald and the Cleveland Raw Dealer cover little to nothing about State Government and its impact on this region.

Anyhow, this page has discussed and linked to articles about Sen Shannon Jones' valiant efforts to castrate the Public Employee Unions in Ohio.

S.B. 5 would end collective bargaining and the right of public employee unions right to strike. The bill would also end binding arbitration.

Governor Kaisich has gone so far as to threaten to put this bill in the State Budget!

GOP proposal means big changes for teacher contracts | Columbus Dispatch Politics

2011-02-13T13:35:00.002-05:00

GOP proposal means big changes for teacher contracts | Columbus Dispatch Politics

CUT CUT CUT CUT!

A truer statement can not be thought of right now (than the following form this article):

"Unions have always taken the viewpoint that they are not going to give anything unless they get something. Schools these days can't give them very much at all."

News-Herald: Mentor hires outside attorney for OVI case involving former state Rep. Mark Schneider

2011-02-12T11:50:00.000-05:00

We have to admit that it is surprising that the News-Herald is continuing to cover the Mark Schneider DUI fiasco.

We will give credit where it is due: the News-Herald.

Read the NH's continuing coverage here.

The right thing to do is to appoint a special visiting judge and prosecutor to handle Mark Schneider DUI case.

The Klammer mafia in Lake County has deep ties. Do you really think hiring John O'Donnel to prosecute Schneider does anything to ensure a fair, impartial case? O'Donnel has been a life long Lake County resident!

Public-worker unions ready to fight GOP proposals | Columbus Dispatch Politics

2011-02-10T23:31:00.000-05:00

Public-worker unions ready to fight GOP proposals | Columbus Dispatch Politics

Right on, right on! Let's fight it out!

Let's hope Kaisich and legislator hangs tough.

Squash the public employee unions.

Ohio Senate Republicans move to wipe out collective bargaining for all state workers | Columbus Dispatch Politics

2011-02-09T19:27:00.001-05:00

Ohio Senate Republicans move to wipe out collective bargaining for all state workers | Columbus Dispatch Politics

Now is the time for the Legislature and Governor to put their proverbial boot on the throat of the public employee unions.

Perhaps with these reforms the disgraceful manipulation of the tax payers by go-along-to-get-along empty suits (e.g. Willoughby Hills, Willoughby-Eastlake School Board, Lake Land Board, etc.) will come to an end. See, the taxpayers have no representatives--rather, empty suits and skirts at City Halls and in Boards of Education work with public employee unions to manipulate the tax payers.

More to follow.

Blog: New political column to debut Sunday - news-herald.com

2011-01-31T21:01:00.000-05:00

Blog: New political column to debut Sunday - news-herald.com

John Hutchenson will prattle on in the same way Dave Jones did.

The News-less-Herald essentially functions as a public relations firm for city councils, school boards, and other appointed boards that seek to raise taxes and employee their friends and family.

Look at Ellen Foley Kessler and her sister Deborah Foley. Ted Klammer appoints Ellen Folley Kessler to Lake Metro Parks Board...Ellen helps Deborah get United Way of Lake County Executive Director Job ($117, 000 per year)...Deborah gets appointed to Mentor Library Board...and the band marches on.

Grendell, LaTourette named to committees - news-herald.com

2011-01-31T07:02:00.000-05:00

Grendell, LaTourette named to committees - news-herald.com

Notice something. Latourette is NOT in leadership of an sort. He got assigned to be a vice chairmen of a sub-committee, and the board that over sees the Smithsonian.

That's pretty embarassing. This guy has been in Congress for around 16 years and is a senior member of the Ohio Delegation...but, no leadership.

Columbus Dispatch: Retirement funds: All state workers will pay for fixes

2011-01-30T15:23:00.000-05:00

Public Employees will have to fix their own broken system

If we had a decent news organization around here their would be some coverage on the public employee pension fund boards rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic.

Instead, we have the News-less-Herald reporting on the Lake Metro Parks, etc.

There is so much to say about this article. However, the most important part is that unions and their pension funds heard the message: NO NEW TAXES TO SUPPORT YOUR ADDICTION TO THE PUBLIC TIT!

The funny part about this article is that one union official said, "Our membership certainly knows that tax payers are hurting these past few years, but studies have shown the funding level from the employer side (read taxpayers) since about the mid 1990's has been shown to be inadequate...."

Simply disgusting.

Enough is enough. No more mayors and city councils raising taxes to fund their friends' retirement in turn for help getting re-elected.

The dirty secret is the council members working that lowly part time job also vest time in public pension funds for their "service." Also, they buy time towards retirement.

WELFARE FOR OHIO SCHOOLS: Ohio schools get $400M from feds | Columbus Dispatch Politics

2011-01-29T09:04:00.000-05:00

Ohio schools get $400M from feds | Columbus Dispatch Politics

This is putting the schools in the country on welfare, plain and simple. Instead of insisting on fiscal discipline and tough love for sickly school systems, the federal government has put 487 schools in Ohio on the federal tit.

Sure, the new-less-herald and its friends will applaud. Some of us cry, no wait weep at situations like this.

Thoughts on Levy Requests

2011-01-26T22:33:00.000-05:00

The other day we learned that Mayfield City Schools is really proud of itself because it is not asking for another levy. In the article the school system administration brags that it has not put a levy on the ballot since 2008.

Since 2008? You mean, the public employees in the Mayfield City Schools have not reached deeper in our pockets since 2008? Are we supposed to commend them? Doing more with less and learning to live within your means is being a responsible grown-up.

Willoughby-Eastlake Schools (WES) on the other hand has asked for a number of levies.

Two levies ago, the lying superintendent Keith Miller of WES and his treasurer Cliff Reinhardt begged everyone for a renewal levy...promising no more levies requests. Guess what happened. Miller and Reinhardt asked for a new levy.

When will the madness end?

Well, can you blame Miller and Reinhardt for asking when voters narrowly approve the levies?

We are being spent into ruin by public employees. Ruins.

The sick part about this is the way in which the public employees skip off into the sunset arm-in-arm with elected officials bankrupting our cities, states and the country.

Elected officials, appointed boards and/or elected boards...it's all the same. Spend someone else's money to print deceptive mailings and print colorful signs. Call it a safety levy or say it's about the kids. Make no mistake. It's all about greed.

Mayfield Schools avoids levy on May ballot - news-herald.com

2011-01-25T10:52:00.000-05:00

Mayfield Schools avoids levy on May ballot - news-herald.com

Oh jeez, well thanks. It has been a whole two years since you asked for a levy? Wow!

VIDEO: Willoughby Hills gets first clean audit since '04 - news-herald.com

2011-01-21T08:21:00.001-05:00

VIDEO: Willoughby Hills gets first clean audit since '04 - news-herald.com

Weger almost hurt himself from all the back patting.

Say, do you think Spend-raise taxes-then do performance audit Willoughby Hills' Mayor Bob Weger and City Council have seen the article on impending bankruptcies of cities and states?

UPDATED--Cleveland Plain Liar: Sherrod OK for 2012 and they want Latourette

2011-01-20T21:56:00.001-05:00

Today's Cleveland Plain Liar did their usual hatchet job. The Plain Liar tried to explain to us that Sherrod Brown is in pretty good shape for 2012...despite only 45% of those polled thinking that he deserves a second term.

The Plain Liar goes onto say that U.S. Rep Jim Jordan is far too conservative to win state wide. Oh yeah?

Why was Connie Shultz-Brown's husband not too liberal to get elected state wide in 2006? Template.

The Plain Liar goes onto say that Latourette is really the best hope at getting rid of Pan-Leninist Sherrod Brown. Why? The implication, because of the slap at Jim Jordan being too conservative, is that Latourette is for more liberal.

A look at the ClubforGrowth's Power Ranking tells us that Jordan is the far better choice. Jordan is ranked 12th overall while Latourette is an unimpressive 181st.

There you have it folks! Due to the fact that Latourette is far more liberal and can raise big corporate bucks he should be the GOP challenger to Sherrod Brown.

Almost anything is better than Sherrod Brown. Almost, maybe even Latourette. A Latourette run for Senate would make a lot of local fanboys very happy. Lots of fundraisers. Lots of seeking pats on the back.

However, Latourette is ver comfortable with the trappings of power...the two homes owned in Virginia by the wifey. Think he is willing to risk it all?

UPDATE: THE NY TIMES, DISCUSSING A PLAN BY CONSERVATIVE GOPers, TO CUT $2.5 TRILLION IN SPENDING QUOTES U.S. REP JIM JORDAN. JIM JORDAN WAS PICKED TO CHAIR A SUB COMMITTEE THAT INCLUDES OVERSIGHT OF GOVERNMENT SPENDING.

Fallout: Here comes the intimidation

2011-01-14T13:31:00.000-05:00

It is clear that some elected officials in this country are trying to use the recent, tragic events that took place in Arizona for their own benefit.

Two articles that have come to light show that a Member of Congress, U.S. Rep. Billy Long, may be using the F.B.I. to intimidate critics. In this case a "blogger" critical of Rep. Billy Long has been visited by the F.B.I. and local Sheriff.

"Local Blogger Claims F.B.I. Intimidation" is not a surprising headline. Read the article here.

Another article asserts that the U.S. Capitol Police has asked Members of Congress to assemble a list of names that they feel are threats.

Wow! Members of Congress are assembling lists of people to have investigated!

What a sad day for the Republic.

Final Thoughts on Grendell Gate

2011-01-04T18:42:00.000-05:00

Today starts the final chapter of "Grendell Gate." The last pages of the story will be written in fall 2012.

The Plain Dealer, over at their website, covered the fact that the Ohio House Republican Caucus picked Rep. Richard Hollington to serve in the OH-98 seat State Sen. Tim Grendell did not take.

Grendell did the right thing. In a nut shell, Sen Grendell stopped the shady Taxn' Trustee Chris Galloway from scheming his way to the State Senate. Even though the news papers did not cover this aspect--Grendell's decision was in large part to stop Taxn' Trustee Chris Galloway from sliming OH-18, Lake and Geaugua County.

Can one feel bad for Taxn' Trustee Galloway? No. Can one feel bad for the local party chairmen that stood by and watched Galloway work for the Ohio Democrat Party? No.

In summary, Taxn' Trustee Galloway is a paid Ohio Democrat Party Operative (according to public records) that is responsible for unseating a republican judge (Colleen O'toole).

Back to Sen. Grendell. Sen. Grendell has been a prolific author lately, for instance, in disseminating court records disparaging Trustee Matt Lynch's problems with his tax bill. Sen. Grendell was condemned by the Ohio Republican Party State Central Committee. That's a joke. That's the same group that paid Taxn' Trustee Galloway at the same time he worked for the Ohio Democrat Party...AND...allows Bob Bennett to hold office. That's right, Bob Bennett. The same Bob Bennett that was the ORP chairman and BIG fund raiser for Democrat Frank Jackson.

Back to Grendell again....there's back story here!

So how will the final pages of "Grendell Gate" read? Richard Hollington won't dare face Grendell in a primary in 2012. No way, no how. That means Tim Grendell will return to the Ohio House of Representatives in 2012.

Ohio's 129th General Assembly Sworn Today: Who will have the courage to make $8 - $10 billion in cuts?

2011-01-03T22:52:00.001-05:00

The new Republican controlled 129th Ohio General Assembly was sworn in today.

Let's cut to the chase.

Ohio is facing a $8 - $10 billion projected budget deficit. Governor-elect Kasich and 21 of the legislators sworn in today signed an anti-tax pledge.

SEE THE LIST OF PLEDGE SIGNEES BELOW. SCROLL DOWN TO THE LIST OF OHIO SIGNEES.

This means that these folks MUST make $8 - $10 billion in cuts to the next budget and NOT raise $8 - $10 billion in revenue.

Kasich proposes the budget...and the General Assembly must approve it.

Of course, State Senator Tim Grendell signed the anti-tax pledge.

Other signees of interest are Governor-elect Kasich, Rep. Ron Young (OH-63), Rep. Mike Dovilla (OH-18), and Rep. Casey Kozlowski (OH-99).

Rep. Ron Young's reputation proceeds him. Young was in part responsible for one of the largest tax cuts in Ohio History. We have some concerns about him though. We have heard that he is concerned that he did not get enough done during his last terms in office due to his conservative stances. Watch Young with a cautious eye.

Two more interesting freshmen legislators are Mike Dovilla and Casey Koslowski. Dovilla represents the Strongsville area. Dovilla beat Matt Patten. Koslowski represents all of Ashtabula County and tiny, tiny part of northern Trubmull County. Thank God Koslowski got rid of Debbie Newcomb.

Little is known about Dovilla and Koslowski in action. They have said the right things and have signed the pledge.

The real question is: does Kasich, Young, Dovilla, Koslowski, and the rest of the signees have the courage to make $8 -$10 billion in cuts?

Anti Tax Pledge

Our Sad Times: Michigan town is left pleading for bankruptcy

2010-12-28T22:01:00.002-05:00

Today's NYtimes tells us the sad facts of today's financial lanscape: municipalities considering bankruptcy.

Keep giving your friends in the public employee unions defined benefit pension programs and year-after-year raises (after faux wage freezes) and you too NE Ohio municipalities could face this dilema.

How about this? If the budget can't be balanced...cut all wages and benefits enough to do so? Perhaps lose the recreation department in some cases? Perhaps cut pension payments to retirees? Just don't come begging to us.

Local Union Heavily Involved with Elected Officials (DAN TROY) and Politics under MORE Investigation

2010-12-28T21:27:00.001-05:00

WOIO's website and its news coverage tonight discussed a subpoena issued to Plumber's Local No. 55.

Lake County Commissioner Dan Troy has been a major benefactor of local and international labor unions...and Cuyahoga County Commissioner Jimmy Dimora.

On "Event Date" of 2/5/2008 "Citizens for Troy Committee" collected $100 contribution from "Dimora Boosters Committee" and $350 from "Plumbers Local COPE 55." A year later...more of the same: "Plumbers Local COPE 55" gives "Citizens for Troy Committee" another $350 check. How about a litte further back? On 9/5/2006 "Plumbers Local COPE 55" gave $250 while "Dimora Boosters Committee" gave $150 to"Citizens for Troy Committee."

Mentor-on-the-Lake City Manager Kip Molenaar is Dan Troy's bag man and treasurer. Dan Troy sets 'em up...and Kip Molenar cashes the checks.

It would take several days to go through just the past decade of Dan Troy's fund raising machine. That's not going to happen here. Just the high lights will be forthcoming.

The sad thing is its not just corrupt labor union PAC's or corrupt politican's PAC's. The problem is also your elected officials.

For instance, Willoughby Hills Councilman David Reichelt is a donor to "Citizens for Troy Committee." On 1/23/2008 Councilman Reichelt kissed the proverbial ring (donated to a Democrat commisioner although he purports to be a Republican) with a $70 check. Then there is Willoughby Hils Council President Kevin Malecek (BIG donor to Dan Troy)...more on this in the next day (too many names to list for the moment, stay tuned).

Plain Dealer: 2 former Boards of Revision workers indicted on altering records, theft

2010-12-27T21:11:00.000-05:00

See the Plain Dealer article here.

You must keep on eye on government, at every level! Do not be discouraged by your local bureaucrats and elected officials. Ask questions. Make public records requests. Speak up!

Yesterday this blog asked, "What ever happened to the F.B.I. investigation of Willoughby Hills' financial records?"

Audits, City Finances, and Whatever Happened to the F.B.I. Investigation of Willoughby Hills' Finances?

2010-12-27T00:23:00.001-05:00

A blog entry from early December over at Eastlake Truth stoked the coals of the memory. The blog entry "Gazzette Propaganda" discusses audits of the City Finances and the proclamation that Eastlake's finances were all good in 2008 and 2009.

However, the name Brian Condron cropped up. The thinking cap went on. Where have we heard that name? hmmmmmm.

Oh. That's right! Before Brian Condron was the finance director in the City of Eastlake he served in the same role in Willoughby Hills from 2000 - 2006.

That's the same period that the F.B.I. subpoenaed finance records from the City of Willoughby Hills.

SEE ARTICLE HERE.

Hmmmmmm.

What was the outcome of this F.B.I. investigation of Willoughby Hills' finances? Were the discrepancies that concerned the F.B.I. regarding money in Willoughby Hills resolved?

Wait a minute! Is there not a performance audit going on now in Willoughby Hills...after...that's right after the "safety levy?"

Hopefully the Willoughby Hills performance audit figures out the funny business in Willoughby Hills' books from a few years ago.

Perhaps these issues under investigation in 2007 were rectified. However, someone needs to answer that question.

Dispatch: Strickland's legacy clouded by economy | Columbus Dispatch Politics

2010-12-26T11:53:00.001-05:00

Strickland's legacy clouded by economy | Columbus Dispatch Politics

Look, Rev. Gov. Ted--YOU FAILED!

You and Lorrie Fende-Serge and Mark Scheider raised taxes, left us with an $ 8 billion budget hole, and oversaw a loss of 413, 000 jobs.

You, Fende-Serge, and Schneider failed.

Shut-up! Quit whining! Go away!

Dispatch: High-ranking state workers moving to protected jobs after Strickland's loss

2010-12-22T11:33:00.000-05:00

Ever wonder why "Joe Six Pack" is disgusted with government...when he is told what is really going on?

Read this article.

Now, no one should begrudge another the opportunity to make a living. However, if you take a job or in a certain career you know the risks. The professional athlete can get hurt. The elected official can lose an election.

What about the public employee...or, more specifically the political appointee?

Is it right that Ted Strickland and other Governors transfer their political appointees into the ranks of civil service under the circumstances Strickland just did?

10 worst states for retirement

2010-12-21T18:38:00.001-05:00

Earlier today it was mentioned here that Ohio is bad place to retire. Here is the source. It's a travesty that elected officials continue to discourage people from living in Ohio by continuing to increase spending and taxes.
10 worst states for retirement
No. 7: Ohio

Economic factors: Cost of living is 93 percent of the national average, unemployment is at 10.3 percent, and the average state and local tax burden is 10.4 percent.

Climate: Average monthly temperatures range from 26.5 degrees in January to 72.78 degrees in July.

Crime rate: 26th in the nation in violent crime, and 20th in property crime.

Life expectancy: 76.2 years.

Reason for low rank: Ohio is fairly average on most criteria, but both the unemployment rate and the tax burden are in the double-digits.

Ohio Loses TWO Seats in the U.S. House of Representatives

2010-12-21T15:24:00.000-05:00

No surprise. Everyone knows people have left Ohio in droves.

Today over at the Plain Dealer's website the story is discussed.

Why is Ohio LOSING so many people. Hmmmm. Maybe's it is because we are the 7th worst State to retire in due to tax rates. Those same high taxes effect young people, these taxes chase people and business away...sigh.

Hey! Maybe Willoughby Hills' City Council and their colleagues throughout Lake County can raise taxes more!

C'mon Mayor Weger, Councilman Reichelt, Councilman Somich, Superintendent Miller... disgraceful school board members...let's get all your colleagues to raise taxes more! Chase more people out...that way there will be no traffic!

News-Herald Avoiding News Again: Lorraine Fende's EX-HUSBAND Pleads Guilty to Child Porn Charges

2010-12-20T20:36:00.000-05:00

Yep. The News-Herald confirms that Daniel Serge, the EX-husband of State Representative Lorraine Fende, plead guilty to child porn charges.

Why is the News-Herald avoiding facts that are public record?

Daniel Serge, guilty of child porn, was married to State Representative Lorraine Fende.

Lake County PAC's and Candidates File Spending Reports

2010-12-14T20:19:00.000-05:00

The PAC's in Lake County all raised and spent money with one goal: to take money from the voters.

YOU HAVE TO LAUGH AT THE WILlOUGHBY HILLS LEVY'S PAC NAME: SAFETY FIRST.

BWA HAHAHAHAHA!

Safety first, that's really something.

That tax hike in Willoughby Hills was about safety?

So, if the levy didn't pass Willoughby Hills would have been unsafe?

NO.

The real effect of Willoughby Hills not getting that levy passed is this: police and fire force salaries and benefits would not have gotten raised as much coming up here in the next budget or so.... Bob Weger and some on City Council would have welched on their promise to unions to get them raises after taking a "freeze" last year.

Safety first. Yeah right.

It's never about your safety. It's about raising revenue so public employees can get more money (i.e. pay, bennies, etc.). It's about deals cut by mayors and city council (or, trustees and the like).

It's not about your safety.

NH: "Candidates for Tim Grendell's Ohio House seat to be screened Friday in Bainbridge"

2010-12-14T20:05:00.001-05:00

Today's News-Herald, over their website, (sort of) discusses the process that will be used to fill the OH-98 House of Representatives seat that State Senator Tim Grendell will NOT fill.

Booo hooo.

The State Central Committee admonished Tim Grendell via a meaningless resolution: if you want to waste some time read here.

Hmmmmm.

Lake County Republican Party Chairman Dale Fellows said that what Tim Grendell is doing "against the will of the voters," and "It's not consistent with the values of the party...."

Question, Mr. Fellows: is it against the values of the Party for Trustee Chris Galloway to attend your Executive Committee Meetings while being paid by the Ohio Democrat Party to work on campaigns in Lake County? Is it against the values of the State Central Committee to pay Trustee Galloway's company to do political work while also working for the Ohio Democrat Party?

Where is the feigned outrage over Trustee Galloway's work for the Ohio Democrat Party...while being a "Republican" elected official...and running nasty, divisive campaigns in Lake County...and attending your party's executive committee meetings?

The article states that Fellows went on to say that "The State Party needs to hold the elected officials acceptable for their actions...."

You are correct on that one Mr. Fellows, but you need to extend that logic to your local party.

DISPATCH: KASICH TO MAKE PUBLIC SECTOR UNIONS PAY

2010-12-13T16:56:00.000-05:00

Today the Columbus Dispatch describes how Governor Elect John Kasich will help the tax payers exact revenge on public sector unions.

Public sectors unions targeted Kasich. Hopefully Kasich will make the unions pay dearly.

See, this article describes the dirty little secret that local mayors and city councils use to pass the blame for out-of-control public sectors union wages, benefits, and pension payments: binding arbitration.

More later.

Columbus Dispatch: Doing Better things with Less Money

2010-12-05T13:26:00.000-05:00

"...You can do better things with less money." are the words of Interim Director Terry Russel of the Mentally Ill Alliance in this Columbus Dispatch article on the State Budget.

Hat's off to this special interest director for getting with the program: less money, smaller budgets, and no new taxes.

It's too bad the Mayor of Willoughby Hills (WH) and WH City Council, Township Trustees; Superintendents and School Boards around Lake County can't do the right thing. Instead, these folks manipulate the hearts and minds of the tax payers and raise taxes.

Kozlowski wins; recount pending

2010-12-02T22:48:00.001-05:00

Kozlowski wins; recount pending

Missed this a few days ago. Word on the street is that recount only gave Debbie Newcomb 1 extra vote. This race is over. Casey Kozlowski is the Representative Elect.

No thanks to U.S. Rep Steve Latourette, the Kozlowski campaign was successful. Latourette is said to have pledged a large, approx. $5, 000, donation to Kozlowski. However, like almost anything Latourette says, that couldn't be trusted; Latourette has well known problems be faithful.

Anyways, Kozlowski deserves congratulations on a hard fought, tactical campaign. Let's hope our neighbors in Ashtabula and Northern Trumbull County see better days; less taxes and less regulation and less government all around.

Dispatch: Painful Cuts Coming for State Agencies

2010-12-02T21:08:00.000-05:00

Let's hope Kasich makes the necessary, deep cuts talked about in this article.

Let's pray that Gov. Elect Kasich stays true to his word that no taxes will be raised to fill the projected $8 billion Ohio Budget Shortfall. It's too easy to just raise the taxes of the every day, working guy--sure as a certain Willoughby Hills Official recently said...it's just a few dollars. This is a mentality that is bankrupting this country.

A few dollars here...some more unfunded liability there...a tax raise over here.

The next thing you know you have crushing unfunded liabilities on the public's shoulder in which State pension funds are insolvent.

See, it's just easier to raise the people's taxes via manipulating the voters (e.g. It's for the kids, or It's a safety levy) than to cut pay roll or layoff. The problem is people get comfortable in office, want to stay there, and get the PERS credit.