tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-101209942011-07-07T19:02:52.000-04:00COMMENTARY & IDEAS EXCHANGED WITH TOLEDO CITY COUNCILMAN FRANK SZOLLOSIFrank Szollosinoreply@blogger.comBlogger1871100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-60250346424468330302008-03-06T11:28:00.002-05:002008-03-06T11:31:54.104-05:00

Our Toledo Budget Blog 08 is up and running again. The 3/4% income tax renewal here in Toledo won 60-40 on Tuesday. The fact that Democrats had very heavy turnout compared to Republicans played no small role in the levy's passage.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-84884317215548772032008-03-06T11:21:00.002-05:002008-03-06T11:23:33.394-05:00

From yesterday's Politico. The story is fairly accurate, as she expressed the same position at her 3/3/08 pre-primary event.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-6171142900638546552007-01-18T09:30:00.000-05:002007-01-18T09:48:37.653-05:00

A fine idea - one that we looked into three years ago and decided better left to the private sector for investment, rather than taxpayers. Our Intel rating is creditable to Buckeye Access for their public investment in 40 nodes and a network throughout the city. Looking forward to reviewing the RFP and working with the Administration, but have a few intial questions..Are Toledo Public Schools

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1168348438662310232007-01-09T08:04:00.000-05:002007-01-09T08:13:59.326-05:00

In his first act as Governor of Ohio, Ted Strickland signed an Executive Order on ethics substantially tougher than the rules governing the City of Toledo.Here is the pdf.It's telling, isn't it, that the loudest objectors to tough rules for Toledo are from the politicians who've been around the longest.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1167799321902747422007-01-02T23:29:00.000-05:002007-01-03T09:21:48.513-05:00

I love public service. Though its more rewarding to pass legislation championed by my colleague Mike Craig directing a modest sum to CareNet, I do enjoy the odd moments when someone thinks they're being cute. Take tonight for example. Mark Sobczak floats Wilma Brown's name as President of Council to replace Republican Rob Ludeman (who Sobczak voted for last year, after voting for Bob

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1165562739223292842006-12-08T02:22:00.000-05:002006-12-08T02:26:34.110-05:00

December 15, 1978 - Winterland, San Francisco - in its entirety.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1165561819797778762006-12-08T01:57:00.000-05:002006-12-08T02:14:55.400-05:00

Last weekend I participated in a debriefing "un-conference" at the NEA Building on 16th in Washington, DC, organized under the banner of RootsCamp.Roz Lemieux from The New Organizing Institute, one of the key organizers of the two day event, gives a brief and succinct description.I have a lot of personal thoughts to share here, but will immediately link to notes on the sessions posted on the

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1165422562223136242006-12-06T11:28:00.000-05:002006-12-06T11:32:38.353-05:00

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1164860722520859842006-11-29T23:15:00.000-05:002006-11-30T00:53:45.383-05:00

Wednesday pushed Sofia and I carried Lucas the length of the 2006 Holiday Parade. Nice work by CitiFest and the Downtown Improvement District, along with the City of Toledo and all the sponsors, volunteers, participants and all the families that came out on such a beautiful Saturday morning to watch it. We had a great time and ate at Tony Packo's afterward.Expect more posting here and on my

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1163601180936733792006-11-15T07:30:00.000-05:002006-11-16T09:02:34.186-05:00

It feels as though many of my friends and I have been working much of our adult lives to steer Ohio back on a better course - away from ever escalating college tuition and the wasting of federal job training dollars; away from ruthless GOP tax policies that takes from the poor and middle class and gives to the wealthiest among us; away from a corporate hollowing-out of Ohio's public schools;

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1162915915018697312006-11-07T11:08:00.001-05:002006-11-07T11:17:20.550-05:00

Going to be a great day for Toledo, our county, state & our country. A re-ordering of priorities is long overdue.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1161698762409484882006-10-24T09:25:00.000-04:002006-10-24T16:22:00.400-04:00

I regret not writing here more consistently the past few months. Offline, life has required of me more time, attention, and responsibility. I'm a new dad, the proud father of a beautiful little girl to complement my son. I've been organizing for the state Democratic ticket in several counties. Of course, we've been busy down at City Hall and in some neighborhoods trying to clean things up,

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1159111394105154002006-09-24T11:17:00.000-04:002006-10-03T10:47:03.953-04:00

Spy Agencies Say Iraq War Worsens Terror Threat in The New York Times this morning.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1156345493774162702006-08-23T10:35:00.000-04:002006-09-26T12:46:19.080-04:00

I've got a few comments from folks this morning on the term limits issue that Toledo City Council handled yesterday.If you would indulge my inner political science professor for a moment here:Term limits were originally inspired by conservative critics of Democratic hegemony in Congress and various state legislatures, and reached the apex of their popularity in the late 1980's & early 1990's -

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1152622250145555572006-07-11T08:45:00.000-04:002006-07-13T16:02:00.406-04:00

"When something important is going on, silence is a lie." - Abe RosenthalThanks to ToledoTalk for finding the above quote, which I offer in response to this anti-democratic suggestion from Toledo's Council President. Spiro Agnew, in memoriam.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1152509043156665932006-07-10T01:22:00.000-04:002006-07-10T02:13:29.173-04:00

About two years ago some really analytical progressives put together a PowerPoint on how right wing think tanks, schools, corporations, various conservative interest groups, policy journals, GOP financiers, national, state and local Republican parties, conservative talk radio and cable, along with certain churches and philanthropic groups all began working together to shift Americans politics to

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1152442779019759412006-07-09T06:49:00.000-04:002006-07-19T00:14:25.300-04:00

Property owners in Lucas County are generous people. There's virtually not a problem for which we don't have a local tax levy, school financing is particularly unfair & unconstitutional, and by now you know special assessments will increase for Toledoans better than 10% next year. Why not redirect state & federal revenue to high tax cities and counties to replace large portions of the revenue

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1152188884849275032006-07-06T08:07:00.000-04:002006-09-10T22:50:22.993-04:00

Another brave defense of Mayor Carty Finkbeiner by my colleague Mark Sobczak in this morning's Blade. He suggests the city isn't "dragging its feet" with the city block-sized crater about a block down and caddy-corner to Fifth-Third Field. I asked the Administration to put up a plywood fence in late March. Perhaps Mark doesn't recall the agenda review when our colleagues agreed with me that

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1151555116823787002006-06-29T00:16:00.000-04:002006-08-16T05:50:53.920-04:00

The Noe Conduits - illegal money, likely stolen from Ohio's injured workers, knowingly laundered into the Bush-Cheney war-political machine. No way, no way, these veteran political figures didn't know exactly what they were doing - Betty and Maggie in particular point out legal technicalities at city council and at the Board of Commissioners religiously. Neither deserve to keep their public

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1151470270184072262006-06-28T00:47:00.000-04:002006-07-01T14:51:08.463-04:00

From HistoryMike comes a valiant defense of Carty by Brian Schwartz.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1151467521562144542006-06-28T00:00:00.000-04:002006-06-28T00:06:08.046-04:00

From today's Press Release by our U.S. Surgeon General:“The health effects of secondhand smoke exposure are more pervasive than we previously thought,” said Surgeon General Carmona, vice admiral of the U.S. Public Health Service. “The scientific evidence is now indisputable: secondhand smoke is not a mere annoyance. It is a serious health hazard that can lead to disease and premature death in

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1150168066552859402006-06-22T18:00:00.000-04:002006-09-09T05:34:50.456-04:00

Rolling out my "land blog" - a 1975 24' Argosy Travel Trailer - built in Ohio by Airstream. A companion blog is also being launched focusing on the nuts and bolts of citizen services. Helping people is the most satisfying part of serving as an elected official. I'm looking forward to spending more time in more neighborhoods, meeting more Toledoans and solving more and more problems. Look for

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1150958749407267452006-06-22T02:24:00.001-04:002006-06-22T03:05:59.156-04:00

Just returned from late briefings at the 911 Building. All non-emergency reports should be directed to 936-2020. Of course, for emergencies call 911.Top priorities: saving lives. from the flood waters, from downed power lines, and potential natural gas leaks from doused pilot lights. If you smell gas, don't do ANYTHING but leave the house immediately - no touching light switches, no phone

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1150167065863461812006-06-12T22:36:00.000-04:002006-06-12T22:55:51.283-04:00

The Finkbeiner Administration Bikepath proposal is disappointing on many levels, despite the fact that fitness is worth encouraging.First, public input. Where the heck was it? Why not have neighborhoods compete for bikepath development, sidestepping the hurtful neighbor versus neighbor events now occurring in South Toledo's Wildwood area. Council has received dozens of letters, emails and

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1149108105406698262006-05-31T16:36:00.000-04:002006-05-31T17:20:29.450-04:00

Here is the breaking news link. Image: February 7, 1897 by Frank Beard. OSU History Dept. website.It's been almost exactly a year since all this broke, check the May 2005 archives.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1148874178370022732006-05-29T00:00:00.000-04:002006-05-28T23:58:09.200-04:00

My wife's father is a Marine. Served a few tours in Vietnam, and recently retired from the Justice Department as an accomplished litigator in the natural resources division, Indian Affairs Bureau. Over the years Hank and I have exchanged books as we share enthusiam for history, baseball, and the outdoors.He has lent me his copy of One Bullet Away by former Marine Captain Nathaniel Fick - a

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1148360004977239822006-05-23T00:34:00.000-04:002006-05-23T01:16:31.066-04:00

This image was taken at a rally in Toledo on May 20. My brother Matt is next to me. He's campaigning this year for the 49th District State House seat. His website offers some great streaming video.We're getting things rolling for him in Toledo, as he's in his seventh year serving as a City Councilman in Oregon, where he's done a hell of a good job.We're proud to be working together, and

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1148357464057681032006-05-22T23:43:00.000-04:002006-05-23T00:11:04.096-04:00

The new Seeger Sessions album from Springsteen is pitch perfect for these times. Anti-war without being preachy. A sonic delight. He digs down to songs in some cases hundreds of years old.Visit the Official Springsteen Site for a sample and news about the tour. (too expensive!)Also, I think I mentioned before the refreshment of satellite radio. Well, there's no more impressive disc jockey

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1144034070948413112006-04-02T23:11:00.000-04:002006-04-02T23:14:30.950-04:00

..."Johnny Hildo" - the political ghostwriter at The Toledo City Paper. Nor am I aware of who actually is writing under the moniker. I understand the rumors have been rampant in some quarters.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1144032065897760922006-04-02T22:38:00.000-04:002006-04-02T22:41:30.320-04:00

An interesting story in Sunday's New York Times about politics and the Internet.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1143870605055966602006-04-01T00:36:00.000-05:002006-07-26T01:27:37.706-04:00

Alot to catch up on...voted against the budget today in short, because it's a budget that makes us less competitive as a community, increases assessments on property tax bills, and cuts law enforcement too deeply (the fund we use to purchase new police cars goes down from $744,000 to $344,000. My amendment would have added another $150,000, as well as reduced by $200,000 the $500,000 cut to the

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1140584902557611682006-02-22T00:01:00.000-05:002006-08-29T08:12:18.773-04:00

Sensational indictments in Toledo and Cleveland today. Congrats to local, state, and federal law enforcement for protecting our troops and the rest of us. I join many in calling for understanding for all Americans across religious and ethnic bounds - it is all too easy to take our frustration and fear out on innocent people. Heard some scatter about whether elements of the so-called patriot

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1140012698400961642006-02-15T08:24:00.000-05:002006-02-15T10:56:31.133-05:00

We have Republicans in top positions within the new Administration, including the director of human resources, a GOP Council President, a Republican chairing the city's finance and budget committee, the information services committee, the parks committee, the zoning and planning committee, and now, two weeks after appointing Councilman Bob McCloskey (now indicted) to "lead" the economic

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1139436105826013542006-02-08T17:59:00.000-05:002006-02-08T17:41:25.663-05:00

Late this afternoon comes word that Mayor Finkbeiner, Keith Wilkowski, and "Westgate Neighbors" will urge the Plan Commission to APPROVE Liz Holland's development plans at Westgate. At long last, we might be able to move forward again. How much damage has been done to our ability to attract economic development in the mean time?

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1137876119674094292006-01-21T15:15:00.000-05:002006-01-21T16:11:53.623-05:00

Disappointed in Council President Ludeman's decision to recommend McCloskey for the ED chairmanship I've held the past few months. Bad choice. I was looking forward to using to the post to more positively engage the new Administration on our community's top priority. Council must vote on McCloskey as ED Chair on 1/31.Sobczak, a Teamsters official, would replace Grachek and control the

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1136869194219418672006-01-09T23:57:00.000-05:002006-01-12T20:56:14.270-05:00

There is so much to catch up on...where to begin?

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1135251750806744082005-12-22T06:42:00.000-05:002006-01-12T19:57:57.340-05:00

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1134370028041727862005-12-12T01:42:00.000-05:002005-12-19T16:08:34.430-05:00

The always excellent Ron Fournier at AP reports on a recent Democratic gathering in Florida. These candidates need to plug into communitarian resources. Governor Bill Clinton did.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1134400629012473982005-12-12T01:16:00.000-05:002005-12-12T10:17:45.776-05:00

The Ohio Honest Elections Campaign is holding a forum for the candidates running for Chair of the Ohio Democratic Party.When: Tuesday December 13th 2005 7:00-9:00 PM (Doors open at 6:00 PM)Where: First Congregational Church 444 E. Broad Street Columbus OH, 43215

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1134368167265618232005-12-12T00:17:00.000-05:002005-12-27T12:54:35.170-05:00

Patience, patience. The reports of the demise of my blog are greatly exaggerated. We are working on some cool things and will roll out sooner or later. And long put-off home improvements and time with the family have kept me plenty occupied. That said, why not an update on some items...Council Action We held a lively committee meeting on the Westgate development agreement. A few reasonable

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1134368848838437262005-12-11T23:21:00.000-05:002006-01-02T05:18:44.336-05:00

Got this from Brendan Cull with Jennifer Brunner for Ohio Secretary of State last week.SIGN THE PETITION AND HELP STOP REPUBLICANS FROM ADOPTING VOTER DISCRIMINATION BILLLate in the evening on December 7, 2005, the Ohio Senate Rules Committee approved House Bill 3, which will require every Ohioan to show a form of identification before being entitled to vote a regular election ballot.Voters

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1133324245695567032005-11-29T22:06:00.000-05:002005-12-02T13:29:18.660-05:00

Pardon the long delay between posts - most of my time the past couple weeks has been spent with family, catching up on work around the house, and absorbing the lessons of actions, words, and election results. The transition from an election to organizing for the new year is a delicate operation - looking forward to a reorganized City Council and working with the new Adminstration to get things

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1132151180340968422005-11-16T08:59:00.000-05:002005-11-23T03:44:11.353-05:00

Its been interesting authoring this blog the past 11 months - an experiment really for an elected official and candidate. I opted for a free-for-all commenting format which produced plenty of hits and misses - and I enjoyed the criticism as much as the support. I've been far less comfortable with anonymous and derogatory opinions about others, though - perhaps because what unidentified people

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1131935484365043632005-11-13T21:18:00.000-05:002005-11-20T09:18:33.246-05:00

Upcoming issues...1. The $5 million purchase of the Sports Arena property, accepting the option from the LCIC. Our hearing last week allowed council members and the public to have questions answered. The property will be a major piece in the Marina District puzzle.2. Westgate revitalization and good jobs. We need to look at the overall redevelopment and investment potential, support the

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1131644504011447532005-11-10T12:32:00.000-05:002006-09-24T03:27:21.703-04:00

Already Thursday and no new post - will write more tonight. Thanks to voters in Toledo who participated in the election, I'm appreciative of their support for my re-election. I'm also grateful to the individuals and organizations that supported my candidacy - special thanks to my wife and son, parents and grandparents. My very best to Mayor Ford, his family, friends, and supporters - we fought

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1131380894683109352005-11-07T11:16:00.000-05:002006-08-10T21:02:58.956-04:00

Street visbility, radio & newspaper ads, phone calls - thousands of phone calls, late breaking GOTV direct mail, last chance media hits....I'm maybe giving away too many trade secrets here. All legit, all designed to maximize turnout in targeted precincts and persuade the undecided.I give the Ford campaign credit for the color sticky note on the front page the same day of the Blade endorsement.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1130978550931345582005-11-02T19:27:00.000-05:002005-11-02T19:46:28.243-05:00

A great run of newspaper endorsements all released today. I'm humbled by their confidence in my service.The BladeThe Toledo JournalSojourner's TruthLa Prensa

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1130389021161678362005-10-27T01:01:00.000-04:002006-07-22T15:16:37.303-04:00

In the wake of the disturbances in North Toledo, the switchblade politics of the Toledo Mayoral race and party meltdown, and utter impatience with the direction of our city, state and country - local progressives cannot allow themselves rest: 1. 500,000 God-fearing, work-a-day Ohioans signed petitions expressing their outrage over the corruption permeating state government like a cancer.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1129780788241939422005-10-20T00:10:00.000-04:002005-10-20T16:15:29.626-04:00

Tuesday night in the Old West End and Wednesday night on 131st in the Point.A local creative was keeping time in the carriage house at the Mansion View on Collingwood - Mike Pedee, editor of Talk of the Town - sold me an ad in this month's issue. Glad to support a local business.I had about two minutes & will here weave in some statements I made at Council Tuesday as well: (definitely not

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1129659995253571082005-10-19T11:22:00.000-04:002005-10-19T15:51:56.000-04:00

Today's campaign story demonstrates yet again the arrogance & weakness of Carty & the Kest Gang. When are they going to stop whining?Legitimate polls may seek out weaknesses of candidates and attempt to ascertain the impact on voters of knowledge of these weaknesses, as well as issues and other facets of a political campaign. Source: National Council on Public Pollsalso of interest, a wiki entry

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1129694288895157232005-10-18T23:55:00.000-04:002005-10-18T23:58:08.916-04:00

An interesting use of toledoblade.com - to publish reactions of Saturdays events on-line for which the print version doesn't have space.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1129566062454022032005-10-17T12:18:00.000-04:002005-10-17T12:23:08.866-04:00

From a Reform Ohio Now press release this morning:Republican Officials Join Reform Ohio Now Effort Conference Call Monday at 10:30 a.mWhat: Conference Call with Republicans who have joined forceswith Reform Ohio Now on State Issue 4 (redistricting reform). Who: Joan Lawrence, former Director of the Ohio Department ofAgingJohn Galbraith, former Republican state representative Doug Mink,

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1129506802246234002005-10-16T19:51:00.000-04:002005-10-16T19:53:22.270-04:00

What triggered the events of yesterday? Time's Chris Maag takes a first look.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1129435258124528252005-10-15T23:56:00.000-04:002006-08-30T03:26:21.940-04:00

10:30am - I report to the Cherry St. Police Substation (CAPS) to monitor the preparations for the white supremacist march through the Lagrange neighborhood. Councilman Ashford joins me and a lone officer, we listen intently to the chatter on the police radio. 11:00am - At least 200 counter-protesters are reported. The police have 150 personnel deployed - bikes, riot gear, horses, helicopters.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1129351881541219562005-10-15T00:44:00.000-04:002005-10-15T00:51:21.566-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 14, 2005Reform Group OffersFormer Modell AideA Free Trip to Baltimore The grassroots organization trying to clean up state government is offering a free airplane ticket to Baltimore to the chief spokesman for the other side.Reform Ohio Now is offering David Hopcraft a Southwest Airlines ticket to Baltimore, where the Browns will play the Ravens on Sunday.“We wanted

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1129253800477989732005-10-14T09:06:00.000-04:002006-08-23T10:38:02.903-04:00

The Blade's legitimate requests for background checks and credit reports Tuesday night caught me off guard. My response was clumsy, not organized. I had privacy issues to think through, and emotions to get in check about disclosing personal financial information to the world.You have to be a public official or candidate to truly appreciate the contours of this experience. Perception is so

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1128660234239667222005-10-07T00:59:00.000-04:002006-08-05T09:23:44.646-04:00

The League of Women Voters and The Urban League Young Professionals sponsored a Toledo City Council Forum Thursday evening at The University of Toledo. 11 of the 12 candidates for At-large City Council participated. It was our first formal candidate debate of the campaign - and things went reasonably well. Only certain candidates were asked certain questions to allow for greater variety of

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1128467240398329162005-10-04T18:50:00.000-04:002005-10-05T08:22:06.306-04:00

As evidenced by an article published in The Blade, and using Carty Finkbeiner's own campaign finance reports, my claim that Carty was seeking to enlist Tom Noe in his mayoral campaign clearly stands. According to Finkbeiner's spokesman, Carty's campaign invited Noe to the Navy Bistro. According to The Blade, Carty's campaign circulated forms asking guests, including TOM NOE, what they would be

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1128023683793750922005-09-29T15:52:00.000-04:002005-09-29T20:25:22.110-04:00

Reform Ohio Now has hit the airwaves across Ohio to support State Issues 2, 3, 4 & 5 - efforts to restore trust, confidence and faith in Ohio. Click here to view the ad on-line.We're also continuing to hit the streets spreading the word - this Saturday we'll meet in the morning at McDonalds on Dorr & Collingwood, and again Sunday afternoon. There is ground action across several NW Ohio counties

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1127872419347843302005-09-27T21:52:00.000-04:002005-09-28T20:30:31.316-04:00

A special project of the Ohio Taxpayers Association to support Reform Ohio Now

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1127866447271920392005-09-27T19:56:00.000-04:002005-09-28T07:29:52.203-04:00

With news of the Lucas County Democratic Party's endorsements, I'm reminded of a great time I had with my wife and son about 10 days ago - an evening at the circus.Lucas and I had a chance to ride an elephant. Under the big top, aerial acrobatics LIVE, WITHOUT A NET. Tigers in a cage, leaping through flaming hoops and balancing on little medicine balls.See the unity candidate! See the trailer

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1127704353138001482005-09-25T22:53:00.000-04:002005-09-25T23:53:49.106-04:00

Mayor Ford, Councilwoman Grachek, Commissioners President Skeldon-Wozniak, and I are supporting the responsible, private efforts of the Westgate owners in their redevelopment efforts, including a potential Costco store. Research on the company yields an impressive track record of profitability, sustained employment, and respectful treatment of employees. A Westgate Costco store would mesh with

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1127649599202125472005-09-25T07:27:00.000-04:002005-09-25T08:46:28.400-04:00

First, the wiki entry for Jack Handey to give credit where credit is due. Besides, haven't you heard, the A-Team is legit.On a more serious note, a Congressional hearing was held last week entitled: Political Speech on the Internet: Should it be Regulated?There are at least 18.2 million blogs as of this writing, though I appreciate Roberta's shout out. And I'm not the only candidate/elected

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1127444937611836602005-09-23T06:30:00.000-04:002005-09-23T07:09:00.626-04:00

Carty bought Noe's breakfast. Injured workers bought Noe's lunch. Facts back up my claim that Carty was warming up his Noe connections, even as The Blade was exposing Noe's activities. Why is it important? Carty claims to be a Democrat, survey's say he has all this support from union households. I bet there are a lot of injured workers who'd like their breakfast back from Tom Noe, and would

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1127242582757611372005-09-20T14:50:00.000-04:002005-09-20T14:59:52.710-04:00

Ohio hasn't witnessed political corruption on this scale in generations. I'm working with Reform Ohio Now to help pass 4 state constitutional amendments this November.We'll be in Fulton County tonight, at a Toledo organizing meeting this Thursday night, and in Bowling Green Wednesday and Saturday - email me for details.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1126713275709042782005-09-14T11:34:00.000-04:002006-09-01T15:08:19.016-04:00

Thank you to voters for their support of LucasCountyDemocrats.org! Our message of job creation, support for police, fire and municipal workers, and better city services AND our unity and teamwork led to an impressive performance across the board:Mayor Ford will represent his supporters and everyone else who opposed the re-emergence of Carty Finkbeiner (a very, very large percentage of the vote).

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1126640573581682952005-09-13T15:40:00.000-04:002005-09-13T15:42:53.593-04:00

Looking at turnout across the city, particularly by ward. Working with many, many people in an effort to boost turnout in key precincts. Its hot - blogging from my phone. Just in from several streets off Hawley - great response for our ticket. Proof tonight.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1126625510667432512005-09-13T11:13:00.000-04:002005-09-13T11:33:54.676-04:00

Ah, the nitty-gritty of another Election Day - I really do enjoy this...After midnight I was criss-crossing Toledo delivering flyers to people who'll be standing at the polls today - Slater Road, Cheltenham, Rockridge, Northwood, Tamarack - got home for just a few hours of shut-eye. Signs up at the polls, pollworkers across Toledo, and a supportive phone call from my mom got me moving.By dawn I

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1126549084337576292005-09-12T13:48:00.000-04:002005-09-12T18:49:25.010-04:00

I'd like to thank my family, my wife Wednesday and son Lucas, as well as my parents and grandparents. Our family has a rich history here in the Toledo-area, and I remain committed to working hard for a better economy, better jobs, safer neighborhoods, and responsive city services. I will continue to work together for Toledo's future.Thank you to everyone who has contributed in some way to my

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1126321201133414012005-09-09T22:43:00.000-04:002005-09-10T09:04:51.400-04:00

First, Carty shoots his mouth off threatening the redevelopment at Westgate.Now he insults a professional developer actively recruiting investment into South Toledo. The combined economic impact to our city of the demolition, construction and renewed commercial activity at Westgate and Southwyck is in the hundreds of millions. We are getting it done, the previous administration had its chance,

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1126235766359099242005-09-08T22:48:00.000-04:002005-09-08T23:23:13.836-04:00

It was a humbling experience this evening to be included in a 'brown-black' unity rally at the south Toledo offices of FLOC, the Farm Labor Organizing Committee. For several months there has been unease and division between Toledo's African-American and Latino communities - at least among its leadership. I'm not in a position to explore the specifics, but a major wedge has been the Mayor's race

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1126149721420409682005-09-07T23:13:00.000-04:002005-09-07T23:22:01.423-04:00

This week's online edition of the Toledo Free Press includes statements by my fellow candidates for City Council.About a week ago Tom Troy did a similar piece in The Blade.For my top picks for Toledo City Council, click here.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1126093844834097802005-09-07T07:45:00.000-04:002006-09-13T21:49:01.770-04:00

Southwyck developer Larry Dillin and Mayor Jack Ford will conduct a Town Hall Meeting Thursday evening in the center court of the old mall at 5:30pm. Mayor Ford is credited as being the catalyst for Dillin's agreement with the owners of the aging mall - having twice quietly criss-crossed the country and holding countless conference calls to spur action.My colleagues Louis Escobar and Rob Ludeman

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1125898070880696802005-09-05T01:45:00.000-04:002006-07-17T01:19:25.636-04:00

Couldn't find an older image of Toledo's Labor Day parade, though I've been attending them since I was my son's age. This image from Buffalo, 1900, with the flags proudly waving and the disciplined cadence of the workers, is a compliment to over a century of contributions by the labor movement to our country - the forty hour work week, the weekend, the elimination of child labor, continual

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1125973516193535882005-09-05T00:15:00.000-04:002005-09-05T23:09:07.786-04:00

Click here for one of many good reasons to buy union and avoid anti-union retailers.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1125719308871918232005-09-02T22:48:00.000-04:002006-08-05T09:36:43.956-04:00

...so plead the Mayor of New Orleans to state and federal officials. Click here to listen to N.O. Mayor C. Ray Nagin's primal, disturbing radio interview."Give money till it hurts," I heard someone say this afternoon. As of 2:00pm today, $200,000 has been donated to our Toledo Red Cross for Katrina relief, according to its crackerjack director, Tim Yenrick.Yenrick also confirmed that 30

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1125633906499430682005-09-01T23:35:00.000-04:002006-08-08T09:41:29.430-04:00

As shocking, saddening images and stories continue to pour in from our Gulf Coast, Mayor Ford and other leaders are drawing up an appropriate response. So many citizen heroes in our community have already taken the initiative in reaching out, from the International Services of Hope to our local Red Cross chapter. It is a time for everyone in our community to join together and offer aid to the

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1125453935336849632005-08-30T22:01:00.000-04:002005-09-02T09:56:31.480-04:00

Reports indicate the destruction down south is worse than expected.... Do what you can to help.Catholic Charities USARed CrossNew Orleans Times-Picayune newspaperKeep them all in your prayers.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1125322576520912112005-08-29T08:27:00.000-04:002005-08-30T07:43:28.656-04:00

I didn't know The Blade was polling on At-Large Council candidates in their survey, though I'm glad they did. NOTE: The respondents were read all 16 names in rotation and asked for their top pick, according to The Blade political writer Jim Tankersley.1. Betty Shultz..........(R)..........14.5%2. Bob McCloskey.....(D)..........113. Phil Copeland.......(D)..........10.34. George Sarantou...(R)....

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1125232115853965482005-08-28T08:05:00.000-04:002006-08-30T01:31:03.143-04:00

The Blade's Tom Troy does an excellent piece this morning profiling the 16 candidates for the 12 At-Large Toledo City Council seats up for grabs on September 13th. For more information on Vasquez, Shanahan, Copeland, McConnell Hancock, and yours truly, visit LucasCountyDemocrats.org And there is the Blade Poll and story by Jim Tankersley. Mayor Ford is in a tough but winnable race. He hasn't

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1125145606004199482005-08-27T08:15:00.000-04:002005-08-27T08:29:10.173-04:00

A great evening out last night. First, the opening ceremonies of the German-American Festival at Oak Shade Grove, complete with ice cold Spaten Lager hoisted for the toast, Marines marching under Old Glory, the actual Budweiser Clydesdale horse team, and about a thousand people under a tent singing the Swiss, German and American national anthems. As a native of the east side, the GAF serves as

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124975006529463312005-08-25T08:16:00.000-04:002006-07-10T05:59:35.050-04:00

As noted over the past year, the arrogance and connections between Carty and the old Kest gang couldn't be stronger. Both Carty & Kest copped guilty pleas, somewhat like Taft, (no contest!) to ethics charges - and all 3 have courted Tom Noe. Though Kest/Carty have relied on the same (crumbling) base of support, the Kest '01 contributors aren't buying stock this year in Finkbeiner's last run for

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com55tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124986133405768172005-08-25T08:15:00.000-04:002005-08-25T16:01:03.003-04:00

Check out the plans for a new & improved Westgate.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124935119356112282005-08-24T21:43:00.000-04:002005-08-24T21:58:39.363-04:00

CareNet Official SiteTwice in the last week, says a Ford staffer, Mayor Ford has been approached by citizens who've credited him with saving their lives. That's got to mean more to him than the awards he and the CareNet partners have received:Ohio Hospital Association's AwardAmerican Hospital Association's NOVA AwardYou gotta love it.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124811922555390642005-08-23T11:17:00.000-04:002006-08-12T04:15:31.573-04:00

Here's but one brief example...The federal Environmental Protection Agency had the City of Toledo tied up in a lawsuit for over a decade involving our wastewater system's dumping of untreated sewage into the Maumee River after heavy rain. Instead of doing the right thing for our community, our river and lake, Finkbeiner devoted the resources of the city's law department to fight the Clinton

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124771632037800822005-08-23T00:21:00.000-04:002005-08-23T14:35:36.423-04:00

The Hamilton County Young Dem's have set up a blog to promote a statewide tour - visiting Young Dems across Ohio at a time of great responsibility for our party.What they're doing reminds me why I love politics, and that this year, with so many local divisions - can be followed by a great one - with new possibilities, creative ideas, and a willingness to take risks.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124773368960936852005-08-23T00:17:00.000-04:002005-08-23T01:08:13.056-04:00

First, black bag searches of American homes and businesses, open medical, school and library records, and other assorted infringements of the beloved Constitution - compliments of Bush, Ashcroft and the Republican Congress.Now Governor Taft and the GOP in our General Assembly want to do the same thing here in Ohio? I wholeheartedly commend The Blade for bringing this to our attention. Read

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124686945019412622005-08-22T00:59:00.000-04:002005-08-22T01:03:22.136-04:00

An interesting new article by the always impressive Matt Bai with The New York Times. Thanks for pointing me there, Swing State Project.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124632251065616372005-08-21T09:05:00.000-04:002005-08-22T10:56:58.603-04:00

Today's DeWine story by The Blade's political writer Jim Tankersley has me feeling grumpy Sunday morning. Why won't one of our veteran Ohio Democrats stand up for the citizens of Ohio, and really the country, by fighting for the Senate? My pick: Rep. Marcy Kaptur - 9th District Click here to send her a note of encouragement. And click here to vote for Marcy in an on-line poll at growohio.org (

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124496299777217862005-08-19T19:43:00.000-04:002005-08-20T00:44:17.510-04:00

What can I add to the honored memory of Barney Quilter? He served in the Ohio House for 28 years, 20 years of which he was Speaker Pro-Tem. He and his family joined us at city council in late July when we dedicated a portion of Woodville Road as Barney Quilter Way. We exchanged stories, Council gave him a standing ovation - it was the last time we spoke.Barney advised my mom in her race for

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124494783289875582005-08-19T19:42:00.000-04:002005-08-19T19:55:38.516-04:00

Meant to post these last night:Mayor Ford had a larger presence on the panel and in the room. Sitting next to the Mayor, Carty looked small - all the weight he lost adds nothing to what's left of his gravitas. Remember the adage about the taller candidate having the edge?The Mayor acknowledged he hasn't focused on touting his accomplishments as Mayor. He gave details on jobs created and the

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124334017813126972005-08-18T10:00:00.000-04:002005-08-18T09:52:03.210-04:00

Pizzuti released its Phase 2 Study and a Pro Forma on new arena construction. It appears downtown is the call. I've got decidedly mixed feelings about it. Voters endorsed an East Side location, and its where I have encouraged investors to invest - but its private money that will enable us to build the thing, and the money leads Pizzuti to its conclusion on downtown. I want to see it built and

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124327759976724192005-08-17T21:11:00.000-04:002005-08-17T21:31:15.816-04:00

Rep. Sherrod Brown posted one hour ago on his blog GrowOhio.org that he will seek re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives, not run for the U.S. Senate next year against Sen. Mike DeWine (R).Interesting use of a blog to communicate with the netroots ahead of the MSM, and interesting timing considering what the Ohio GOP is grappling with today. The guys at the DSCC won't be happy.And by

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124308701553359332005-08-17T15:58:00.000-04:002006-08-13T07:10:18.970-04:00

About an hour ago I got a call from Columbus: Gov. Taft will be the first sitting Ohio Governor to be charged. It's a sad day for Ohio. We should let the justice system take its course.Kudos to The Toledo Blade for exposing high crimes and misdemeanors here in Ohio. During the press conference - happening as I blog - a reporter asked Franklin County Prosecutor Ron O'Brien if they'd be standing

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124253477772970182005-08-17T00:01:00.000-04:002005-08-17T00:53:33.023-04:00

Been working on something this week I think is important. Over 15 years ago the City of Toledo decided to give seniors who qualify for the Homestead Exemption a break on their water bills. It's called the Water Discount Program.Well, a woman from Cypress Point Village over there on Consaul Street somehow tracked down my cell phone number, called, and really shocked me when she said folks have

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1124079873724657882005-08-15T03:15:00.000-04:002005-08-15T04:14:39.433-04:00

Prognosticators are amped by the competitiveness of the Mayor's race. Last week saw its own share of twists and turns:- A great story by new Blade political writer Jim Tankersley Candidates host a tour of Toledo. What's up with Wilkowski's tour? First, more gimmicks: the run, the bus, the graveyard and whiskey. The running man gambit makes for better TV than print. Second, nowhere in his

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1123733281146502852005-08-13T23:39:00.000-04:002005-08-22T01:06:11.430-04:00

Reform Ohio Now is picking up steam in its efforts to put three progressive Ohio Constitutional amendments on the November 2005 ballot. On 8/9 they filed twice the number of signatures needed. The impact of Coingate couldn't be more imminent, or shocking. If these reforms pass, they could cost the GOP control of Ohio's General Assembly and the Congress (losing as many as six congressional seats

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1123860863555164442005-08-12T10:50:00.000-04:002006-09-28T05:59:11.100-04:00

"The mayor's vote received some booing from members of the audience, and applause from representatives of the local building trades unions who were in favor of the shopping center's construction for the jobs it would create." reprinted from the Toledo Blade, July 25, 2001.In 2001 Mayor Finkbeiner broke 2 tied Council/Plan Commission votes to clear the way for Wal-Mart in residential South Toledo.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1123522441968636692005-08-08T13:29:00.000-04:002005-08-08T13:34:05.856-04:00

The City of Brook Park, Ohio, which lost 19 Marines last week in Iraq, has on its website links for those wishing to send a tribute or note of support to the families and community. Click here for City of Brook Park website, and keep them in your prayers.

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10120994.post-1123255776340540352005-08-05T11:00:00.000-04:002005-08-05T11:36:55.946-04:00

As we approach 40 days before the September primary, I want to express appreciation to everyone with LucasCountyDemocrats.org. Our candidates have so much support from across the city. Our Mayor Jack Ford, as a result of his national reputation for commitment, innovation and achievement, has received strong financial and political support from coast-to-coast. Jobs, health care, and responsive

Frank Szollosinoreply@blogger.com16