TheAssHoleLawyer

TAHL Has Left The Vilage!

2011-07-15T15:08:00.002-04:00

That's right, we have moved out of Ottawa Hills, and joined the ranks of Toledo taxpayers who also get a vote. We enjoyed our years in Ottawa Hills immensely, and want to thank all our neighbors, friends, teachers, counsel members, coaches, firemen, and cops.

We have moved to District 5, in Washington Local, Whitmer School District. So far so good, nice small brick house, lower purchase price than the Village and lower taxes. We don't rely on the police for our personal safety, and chose a nice neighborhood, so I don't expect any problems on that front. There are in fact two cops (from other jurisdictions) on our street.

So I am now an official voter on City of Toledo issues, not just a taxpayer forced to take what is dealt without a say. I have already e-mailed my councilman, Tom Wainewski, and gotten a quick, brief, but thoughtful response.

TAHL

Bonds but no Panthers!!

2011-03-25T09:11:00.003-04:00

I am not a Barry Bonds fan or a SF Giants fan. I never really liked Bonds for his attitude and unwillingness to interact with fans. That being said, I am irate that the the Federal government - the Justice Department - is spending tens of thousands of dollars to prosecute Bond for perjury, while refusing to prosecute the New Black Panther Party for voter intimidation.

Lets be clear - this is not a racial issue, or even a Democrat vs. Republican issue. The Black Panthers adulterated the right of Americans to VOTE, the most precious freedom we have. And yet, the government refuses to prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law.

However, chasing false testimony in baseball steroid use investigations (an area the federal government has no business in)is allowed to continue.

Shame on you President Obama and Eric Holder. Your dereliction if duty is criminal.

TAHL

IVY League Gets Millions while shunning Americas Best.

2011-03-02T14:59:00.002-05:00

Using "don't ask don't tell" as false justification, many Ivy league colleges have banned ROTC programs, while still collecting taxpayer dollars. A violation of the Solomon Act.

The amount of our money these "elite"s schools collect, despite having billion dollar endowments, is obscene.

"Enforcement of the Solomon Act means a lot of money is on the line for universities. For example, in the fiscal year 2010, Harvard received $621 million in federal funding; Yale received $510.4 million; and Stanford received approximately $880 million. Brown University and the University of Chicago also risk losing federal funding by banning the ROTC."

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2011/02/28/elite-universities-slow-welcome-rotc-campus/?test=latestnews

ROTC issue aside - why are these colleges getting a dime of tax payer money to operate, while indoctrinating students of America?

Cut the funding all together -- return all Federal Education dollars to the states, and let us keep more of our money for our own children's education. Mine is going earn his help from the taxpayer by serving as an enlisted man, or through ROTC.

TAHL

Run from the Taxes.

2010-12-11T11:00:00.002-05:00

New study shows Ohio #3 in the nation for expected population loss.

Though specific conditions are pushing people out of some states, economists say more people moving around would be a positive sign for the economy. "Mobility makes it easier to respond to economic cycles," says Karp. "People are still living in places where there are no jobs. That's one of [the] reasons why the unemployment rate remains really high."

Top 5 States People Are Fleeing

No. 1: New York

Projected Loss: 49,000 people

Population: 19.7 million

Percentage Change: -0.25%

The Big Apple may lose more people than it gains in 2010 because of the depressed job market, high cost of living and an ongoing trend of retirees and job-seekers heading to the South and Southwest.

No. 2: Illinois

Projected Loss: 27,000 people

Population: 13 million

Percentage Change: -0.21%

Economist Nathaniel Karp says Illinois' tax structure and loss of manufacturing jobs may be pushing people out of the state this year.

No. 3: Ohio

Projected Loss: 8,900 people

Population: 11.6 million

Percentage Change: -0.08%

Over the last five years Ohio has lost an average of about 30,000 people per year. This year its losses are projected to slow, but remain significant enough to put the state at No. 3.

Democrat Supporters Stoop to Theft

2010-10-19T08:57:00.002-04:00

Several large Steve Yarbrough campaign signs have been stolen, removed from private property recently. This is nothing new of course, but remains pathetic.

Nice job Dems, or Dem supporters. Why stand on experience, record, judicial principle and philosophy, when you can just try and keep the opponent from the public eye.

TAHL.

2010-08-26T13:17:00.000-04:00

Yabrough

Yarbrough BBQ -- Come talk to the Judge.

2010-08-26T13:00:00.002-04:00

http://www.docstoc.com/docs/document-preview.aspx?doc_id=51727911

They Waste Time - and Our Money

2010-07-22T16:57:00.002-04:00

So the Toledo City Counsel has spend time, effort, rhetoric and resources == Our Money, debating whether to pass an ineffective, wasteful, irrelevant Resolution calling for "comprehensive national immigration reform."

At least the Mayor voted no and put such silliness to rest. Accept of course, the Blade continues to write on this non-issue.

City counsel -- keep your eye on the ball and focused on issues you could actually control.

Pandering such as this is shame full.

TAHL

Wasted Resources for Pandering Rhetoric.

2010-06-16T09:35:00.001-04:00

The Lucas County Commissioners issued a proclamation, or passed a resolution, denouncing the State of Arizona's new immigration enforcement law. What a waste of our tax dollars. How much county time, paper, ink, and other resources were used to issue this irrelevant, pandering statement that has no bearing on AZ? What a great example to set -- a written resolution that supports the lawlessness of illegal immigration.

Remember this action in the voting booth and remove them all.

TAHL

Nothing Worth While is Easy

2010-06-10T15:35:00.002-04:00

Last night I attended most of the LCRP Central Committee meeting to elect committee officers and a party chairman. As you may know, John Stainbrook was elected Party Chairman, and Meghan Gallagher was elected Central Committee Chairman. It is no secret that I was in the "Simpson camp" through the turmoil that has gone on in the last several months. So with that in mind, here are some observations of the meeting I made.

Numerous committee members - knowing an incredibly important, contested vote was occurring - showed up without ID. Some showed up to vote not realizing they had lost in the recent election, and were no longer committee members. And, one person showed up stating he was a central committee member "appointed" by John Stainbrook.

WOW -- if our party is represented by people who don't know enough to carry a photo ID when they drive, bike, ride or walk downtown for an important vote such as this, I worry for Republicans.

Once underway the meeting fell into a battle of spite between supporters for each side over reading of the roll, reading of absent members, and an attempt by the Stainbrook side to strike the rules and call for an open vote. This took HOURS - thus the title of this post.

Freedom and liberty are not easy or clean. Representative government is messy and, as most things worth a damn, difficult to achieve. But the vote last night was a crucial step to re-unification of the party and preparation for November, and worth the pains it caused.

We are at a unique time in NW Ohio. A time when a return to conservative values and a turn toward core Republican principles can and must occur in Lucas County. The economic reality has shined the light on the unrealistic expectations and incompetent actions of the Democratic party entrenched in Lucas County over the last decades. The LCRP must unify to this goal, abandon old ways and cynicism, and break all ties to the establishment - once thought to be a necessary evil endured for the limited success Republicans achieved.

It won't be easy -- But it will be worth it.

TAHL

Seek Out and Thank Veterans and Their Families

2010-05-28T09:01:00.003-04:00

Its Memorial Day weekend. Fun, sun, BBQ's, golf and the end of the school season. All great ways to celebrate. But, lets not forget the real meaning and purpose of the holiday.

Look for, be aware of, and seek out veterans and their families. If a car at the gas pump has a veteran sticker or plate, thank the driver. If you see a soldier, airman, marine or swabby in uniform at a restaurant, offer to pay their meal or pick up the tip. Visit elderly veterans in your neighborhood and cut the grass or offer a cold one.

Likewise, do the same for veteran's families.

Thank you to all who have served, continue to serve, and gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Tom Sullivan

Support OHPD Sunday

2010-05-22T11:47:00.002-04:00

A group of biker are holding a ride and rally at city hall Sunday to show solidarity for Mike McClosky. If you encounter them please follow the law and concept of courtesy and decency.

However, wear your OH colors and if you can stand along Indian Road to show your support to our PD please do. Attending the rally at Villllage Hall will not hel the PD.

Regardless of your beliefs about the McClosky shooting, our village and Police Dept. deserve our support.

Thank you.

TAHL

Financial Advice for Young Lawyers

2010-04-20T07:59:00.001-04:00

UT law school, room #1008, Thursday April 22, at 5:00 pm.

OSBA Young Lawyers Counsel, UT Law Career Services, and Edward Jones independent financial advisor Jon Vanslooten, are happy to present a 45 minute educational session for law students and young lawyers.

Come one come all.

TAHL

Red Light Camera Petition Meeting

2010-04-09T13:35:00.003-04:00

I attended the red light camera/fixed speed detection petition drive kick off meeting last night. The meeting was poorly attended, but, given the weather, the lack of major media announcement, and the Mud Hens game, the presenters were not surprised.

The meeting was informative, gave participants the necessary tools to get the drive going, and some motivation to do so. According to Chris Finney, a lawyer from Cincinnati who has lead successful red light camera petition drives in other cities and on other issues; the response last year to the the issue from Toledoans is the most positive he has witnessed. Last years petitions were rejected on a technical issue found in the Toledo Municipal Code that is not shared in other jursidictions, but this years petitions are in full compliance.

Keep your eye out for petition circulators and please sign of you are a registered Toledo voter. Regardless of which side of the debate you are on, as members of a free Republic, you should support the apportunity to get such issues on the ballot for citizen vote.

TAHL

Credit where Credit is Due!!

2010-04-07T08:54:00.002-04:00

For the first time I can specifically remember - I agree with something President Obama has done. Interestingly enough -- this decision has not garnered much national attention. Not surprisingly.

From the New York Times. -- The President has authorized the targeted killing of a radical-Muslim cleric who is also a US Citizen.

"WASHINGTON - The Obama administration has taken the extraordinary step of authorizing the targeted killing of an American citizen, the radical Muslim cleric Anwar al-Awlaki, who is believed to have shifted from encouraging attacks on the United States to directly participating in them, intelligence and counterterrorism officials said Tuesday."

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/36208306/ns/world_news-the_new_york_times

So - why has this not gotten more publicity? Because the administration and national media know it would outrage the liberal left wing that President Obama is beholden to.

As for me -- you got ONE RIGHT - Mr. President.

TAHL

Union Extortion Tactics Know No Boundaries!

2010-04-05T13:12:00.003-04:00

The extortionist tactics of some union members have no limits. In today's Blade - Letters to the Editor, can be found a call by Patrick Hagenmaier, a rabid supporter of the UFCW union, to WITHHOLD BLOOD DONATIONS, until the Red Cross negotiates a contract with the union workers who staff the donation centers.

Really -- withhold life saving blood from the populous to coerce labor contracts?! I guess I should not be surprised when withholding police, fire, and educational services are well known scare tactics when contracts for those workers come due.

As a former UFCW member and Toledo citizen, shame on you Patrick Hagenmaier! I am willing to bet those dedicated Red Cross workers share my sentiment.

TAHL

Cuts and Concessions before Police Layoffs

2010-03-17T08:47:00.002-04:00

Every city employee should pay their own retirement contribution with the city's matching capped at 5%.

Every city employee should pay 20% if their health care premium, with standard deductibles and co-pays.

Every city position possible should be eliminated before a single police officer is layed off, even if the Mayor has to answer his own phone.

If contracts are preventing this from happening, then the City should declare insolvency, go into receivership, and let a state trustee determine new contracts, benefits and wages.

We Are The World Foundation

2010-02-14T08:06:00.001-05:00

Our Economy and Their Honor for Sale

2010-01-15T08:59:00.004-05:00

According to the New York Post, and other sources, unions (including federal employees') will escape the tax on the premier health care plans they receive, while the rest of us will pay through the nose for it.

"Big Labor got some big love from President Obama and congressional Democrats yesterday after they agreed to exempt union workers from the whopping “Cadillac tax” on high-cost health-care plans until 2018. The sweetheart deal, hammered out behind closed doors, will save union employees at least $60 billion over the years involved, while others won't be as lucky -- they'll have to cough up almost $90 billion "

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/national/unions_get_pecial_treatment_in_health_AB053CwqPIJlIxXAm37DOM#ixzz0cgosDksC

Honor, integrity, constitutionalism and our economy for sale to the highest bidder, and beholden to the unions. Union membership makes up less than 15% of the American work force. So, on top of solving a 15% health insurance problem by destroying the 85% effective system, we now will exempt 15% of the nations workers from paying for the Democrat plan, at the expense of other paying citizens.

A travesty of constitutional, economic, and political justice. Overpaid unionized workers get sweetheart deals, everyone else gets the bill.

TAHL

Lima Settles with Estate of Tarika Wilson

2010-01-01T10:27:00.002-05:00

The City of Lima has settled the case with the estate of Tarika Wilson. The City's insurers, holding a no-consent policy, settled the case over objection by the City. This is not uncommon, nor any admission of guilt by the city.

Insurance companies measure the cost of defense and trial, risk of loss at a civil trial, and potential civil verdicts in their settlement decisions. Its business for them, not right vs. wrong. Given the climate in Lima, the facts known, and the costs involved, settlement was likely a solid mathematical outcome.

More at Cops&Lawyers.blogspot.com, and Glass City Jungle.

TAHL

For the Sake of Health

2009-12-26T09:25:00.002-05:00

A new government study has found that GM cars are the safest, most efficient cars available in America, surpassing Mercedes, Volvo, Ford, and even some privately built armored cars.

Therefore, because driving of less-safe cars may lead to expensive medical bills (some of which will not be paid by the drivers and might be absorbed by the tax payer) the government is now passing new automobile reform legislation.

All Americans will be required to purchase GM cars. If they do not, they will be fined and eventually charged with the crime of refusing to drive a GM. Those who cannot afford a GM car will be issued a GM by the government paid for by tax dollars. The existing car makers are free to compete with GM for the business, but only if they convert all their automobiles to the standards and equipment found in GM cars. IF they cannot do so, and sales plummet because their customers fear imprisonment for not driving a GM or GM equivalent, then they those manufactures will go out of business, leaving their employees jobless.

Mechanics who are not licensed or certified to repair GM cars, will be re-trained. The congress will establish rules for what GM licensed mechancis can charge for an oil change, ball joint repair, and what major overhauls are appropriate. Those who continue to repair other brands based on agreements with their owners will be subject to criminal prosecution and stripped of their certifications. Crossing into Canada or Mexico to have your vehicle repaired will be a criminal act, GM or other brand.

Pay no attention to the fact that the government owns GM. This is for your own good, and the good of the millions of Americans, and illegal immigrants, who can't afford cars. This legislation will be passed REGARDLESS of your position on its constitutionality or benefits.

This is the health care reform that is currently being pushed through congress.

Your freedom and liberty removed. Your choice removed. Government "studies" determining what health care is necessary and safe --- IE new mammogram standards.

Jail for refusal to choose health insurance. Massive cost increases on taxpayers and the destruction of private health care insurance providers, and all their employees jobless. Doctors told what tests, procedures and care can be provided, no private contracts for care, and cross boarder excursions to see a physician operating abroad illegal.

Stop this massive unconstitutional power grab now.

Call, email, write your congress and the president. Rally your friends and like minded. Attempt to logically argue the point with liberals you know -- this is a matter of freedom and choice, not the tragedy of the uninsured.

TAHL - Tom Sullivan

Communist - Plain and Simple

2009-10-24T09:21:00.002-04:00

Government ownership of private business.

Government telling private business and citizens what wages they may receive.

And now, the President determining which news outlets will be "allowed" to interview or be present for press conferences with government officials. THIS IS COMMUNISM.

The sad thing is, the citizenry is so ill informed, or uneducated on history, that our President does not even have to hide his agenda.

The Constitution has become a distraction to him and his Congress. His oath is a fraud.

TAHL

This tax --- shall not be treated as a tax -- Health Care Bill

2009-08-27T09:18:00.003-04:00

This is actual language from the Health Care Bill, page 174, addressing the tax (2.5%) imposed if you choose not to purchase health care.

‘‘(6) NOT TREATED AS TAX IMPOSED BY THISCHAPTER FOR CERTAIN PURPOSES.—

The tax imposed under this section shall not be treated as tax imposed by this chapter for purposes of determining the amount of any credit under this chapter or for purposes of section.

I'm only on page 174 of 1017, so I am sure there is more to come.

Here is the Bill.

http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=111_cong_bills&docid=f:h3200ih.txt.pdf

TAHL

flag@whitehouse.gov

2009-08-08T09:19:00.002-04:00

Can you say --- Big Brother.

"The White House has been under fire since it posted a blog on Tuesday that asked supporters to e-mail any "fishy" information seen on the Web or received electronically to flag@whitehouse.gov."

Turn in your countrymen, your neighbors, or your family for their "fishy" free speech against Govt. intrusion into health care, or any other part of your life.

Freedom and Liberty are bleeding out............................Vote, Vote. Vote for a tourniquet to save our Republic.

TAHL

ANIMAL HOUSE RESCUE CHARITY EVENT

2009-07-21T16:19:00.003-04:00

BIG DOG WALK
July 26, 2009
Walk:
9 A.M. - 11 A.M.

Secor Room Activities: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Secor Metro Park

http://www.metroparkstoledo.com/metroparks/maps/

Register and donate on-line, or in person with cash at any AHR adoption event.

http://www.ahrescue.org Short Walk: Woodland Pond Trail, 0.3 miles

Long Walk: Swamp Forrest Trail, 1.2 miles

Grand Prize Raffle: $250.00 Visa Cash Card: Need not be present to win.

Silent Auction in Secor Room 11 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. (bidding ends at 12:30 p.m.)

Raffle Drawing at 1 p.m. in Secor Room

Adoptions in Secor Room

11:00 p.m.- 2:00 p.m. Entertainment, food, beverages, variety of specialty vendors, samples, games, prizes, and more……

$20.00 registration donation includes t-shirt, water bottle, samples, and coupons Pre-registered

Walkers check-in between 9 & 10:30 a.m. Sunday Morning. Official start 9:30 a.m.*

Follow the AHR BIG DOG WALK SIGNS

*Register at any adoption event Saturday, July, 18th at Anderson’s, 503 Illinois Ave., Maumee, Ohio, between Noon and 3 p.m. or; Saturday July 25th, at PetCo on Monroe Street between Noon and 3 p.m. $25.00 Same Day Registration Donation 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. in the Secor Room.

Additional t-shirts available for $10.00 donation on event day.

To register and pay online, go to www.ahrescue.org.

Click on the link for Walk Registration, fill out and submit the form.
Then click on the PayPal link to pay your $20.00 Registration Donation.

For details or space rental: ahrdogsncats@yahoo.com

***25 Free AVID micro-chips, available to registered walkers at 9:00 a.m.*** Reduced Cost Shot Clinic 10:00 a.m. - 2 p.m.***Restrictions apply. See website for details***

CopArazzi

2009-06-26T09:01:00.002-04:00

Today I heard the perfect term for law enforcement's continued use of red light Cameras.

CopArazzi!

The paparazzi have the right to take photos of celebrities in PUBLIC, but none of us support or condone their METHODS.

Likewise, police have a DUTY to keep our streets safe, but, red light cameras are not the proper METHOD, and are often counterproductive.

Police agencies have become the CopArazzi. Lost is the spirit and intent of their job and purpose; lost to the all mighty dollar. The perfect analogy.

IN FULL DISCLOSURE - I heard this term on Bob and Tom today, from comedian Augie Smith.

M.I.S. and NASCAR Get it Right!

2009-06-16T19:22:00.004-04:00

Do you like speed and power?

Do you like girl watching, boy watching, or freak of nature watching?

Do you like good fried food, beer cheaper than at the ball game, and a day in the sun?

Then check out MIS and NASCAR, especially if you have kids under 13.

I went to my first NASCAR race last Sunday at MIS. The general admission tickets were $40 dollars each - which included a free ticket for a child 12 or younger. So for the price of 3 adult tickets, $120.00, we got 6 total tickets and six of us went to the race. That's $20 bucks a person.

IF we chose too, we would not have needed to spend another dime. We brought all the water, Gatorade and snacks we needed. We could have brought our own beer, but with the kids on the trip, we abstained. Parking is free and the tram ride to the grandstands is free. The seats were good enough to see the back stretch, sit on turns 3 and 4, and see the front stretch and first two turns with binoculars.

The food was reasonably priced compared to The Joe, 5/3 field, or Comerica with an extensive selection. The beer a bit cheaper than at the ball game. On top of that much of the NASCAR memorabilia was well priced. I got one Earnhart Jr. hat for $10.00 and one Home Depot, Joey Logano hat for $18.

Traffic is well regulated, about an hour up, and about 45 minutes to get out of the parking areas after the race, being one of 50,000 cars. A quick ride up M-50 from 23 and you can witness a great spectacle on the track and in some of the stands. Never was I concerned that my 12 year old boy would hear or see something "new" and he loved the day. In fact, so did I.

Good Job MIS -- keep it up and we will see you in August.

TAHL

"Lawyering Up"

2009-05-24T13:43:00.002-04:00

We live in a litigious society, which, to be honest, puts food on my table. In a civilized society when problems cannot be worked out between individuals, they turn to the rule of law, and lawyers.

Across the Toledo blogosphere comments have been recently made that the Ottawa Hills PD has already "lawyer-ed up", failed to release a statement, and thus the shooting must have been unjustified.

The Constitution applies to individual civil servants as much as too you and I, and the officer or department's silence is understandable at this point. In our media fed, instant access, computer fuelled world; saying nothing at the outset is the best advice for everyone. Remain silent, call a supervisor, call a lawyer, and don't talk to the press.

The presumption of innocence - which we all live with the benefit of and expect to be treated in accordance with, gets forgotten when we suspect a person's motives, dislike their background, color, position or status, and assume guilt because they seek counsel (also a constitutional right). In this time of our history, lets not throw out individual constitutional rights when times get tough, lets cling to them with all our might. Cops too.

TAHL

Tom Sullivan...............Come On Down!

2009-05-05T13:07:00.003-04:00

Well, smart or stupid, right or wrong, naive or not, I have decided to post my name and picture on my blogs. As some people see "screen names" as cowardly ways to hide when you are not willing to put your money where your mouth (or keyboard) is, I have "come out" in an Internet identity sense. I will not be retiring my pseudonym however.

Please keep your comments to the blogs, unless we are personal friends and you already know my private e-mail or cell phone number.

Thanks

TAHL (Tom Sullivan).

Another Unknown Toledo Gem

2009-05-02T16:43:00.002-04:00

After reading the UT Rockets baseball team in the sports page yesterday, and seeing they are leading their division, we went to a game today.

The wind aside, it was a nice afternoon - VERY AFFORDABLE - $3 for adult, $1 for the kids, and the baseball was top notch. Rockets were up 12-6 when we left after the sixth.

We even had the enjoyment of four Rocket Fanatics, Deek, Luchbox, Baby Cakes and ............one more. (Sorry).

So if you get a chance -- get over to Scott Park and support the Rockets. Its well worth the cost and convenient to west Toledo.

TAHL

City Council and Citizens Held Hostage

2009-05-01T11:52:00.005-04:00

The mayor has finally showed his true stripes and agenda. Hold the City Council and citizens hostage by extorting increased taxes to ensure safety and assuage fear.

As quoted in the Blade

"Mr. Finkbeiner's strategy to balance Toledo's staggering $21.3 million deficit - while at the same time reducing the police layoffs from the previously announced 150 officers - includes several assumptions and depends on Toledo City Council agreeing to reach into some Toledoans' pockets.

Mr. Finkbeiner said council must approve a bump in the city's refuse fee and his plan to collect more income taxes from Toledoans who work outside the city - something council already has rejected twice."

The table was set, and the fear generated over the last several weeks. Now Carty has given his mandate, and set the Council up to blame, if and when, they do the right thing and vote NO to increased taxes and fees.

Carty will cry from the roof top of One Govt. Center that the Council traded safety for politics and "failed to show the leadership" this "crisis" required.

Yet he will still have an inflated staff, and the city will continue to hemorrhage money. Police, Fire and Courts MUST BE THE LAST TO GO.

TAHL

Dedicated Toledo Workforce

2009-01-16T13:58:00.000-05:00

Its nice to see that not everyone is using the cold weather as an excuse not to head out to work. While closings are rampantly streaming across the bottom of our TV screens, the thieves of Toledo are hard at work.My truck was broken into yesterday, during work hours, in the Port Lawrence parking garage downtown. Toledo thieves, undeterred by weather, are out doing their best to stimulate the underbelly of the economy.

While I applaud the thief's dedication, I question his/her talent.First, I drive an old truck. "Old" in this context does not mean "classic" or "vintage," it means crappy. A rusted out 1991 Ford Ranger to be specific. However, because the prior owner was a young kid, it did have a kickin stereo, so the choice was not completely unreasonable.I must take issue, however, with how this citizen applies his craft. I naively still expect workers to know their trade, study the masters, and apply it with journeyman skill. My thief is either an apprentice, or is resting on his laurels.Gone are the days when a man took pride in his work, sought excellence, and the results were self evident.

My salvage technician obviously has not studied the masters. He surely has not watched: The Heist, Oceans 11, 12, or 13, or The Ref; as he clearly is unaware that the goal is to steal with such precision and finesse that the mark remains unaware that they have been had for days or even weeks.Clearly, the person who is re-using my stereo did not do their homework. They obviously did not study the dashboard schematics of the Ford Ranger, and must not have called upon a collegue or former UAW Ford plant "source" who could provide them detailed diagrams of the Ford truck interior, thereby allowing him to effortlessly release the dash and remove its contents with speed and minimal effort. My recycler brutishly pried my dash from its moorings, braking it in the process, leaving clear evidence of his presence through tool marks on the trim, and even destroying his tool, lazily leaving it on my floorboard.

Additionally, he lacked the attention to detail and thoroughness required to excel in any profession. He missed several premium CD's affixed to my sun visor, including Botchelli and Dave Mathews, BOTCHELLI FOR GOD'S SAKE! With even a cursory look behind the seat it would have been clear that my speakers were ripe as fresh apples for picking, as I had not actually mounted them and they were simply resting behind the seat held in place by their magnets. Finally, the briefest glance into the glove box (step #3 in "Auto Burglary for Dummies") would have shown the treasure hunter that his new stereo included a REMOTE.

So not everyone is using the weather as a reason to rest at home on the couch watching Regis and Kelly. Some "go getters" are out braving the elements to ply their craft and provide much needed, gently used electronics, to themselves or their pawn dealer. All is not lost, Toledo does have dedicated, hard working, citizens willing to get out there and profit.

TAHL

Federal Bureaucracy - Please handle my health care!!

2009-01-15T14:49:00.005-05:00

I received this item from the U.S. Postal Service today. The envelope contained multiple pages of material that had been ripped in two, at least two, pieces.

The clear plastic sleeve it was returned in, "WE CARE," reads:

"We sincerely regret the damage to your mail during handling by the USPS. We hope this incident did not inconvenience you." * * *

And some people want a government bureaucracy controlling health care. Can you imagine waking up to find a clear plastic sleeve taped to your body, "We sincerely regret the damage to your tissues during handling, we hope this incident did not inconvenience you." !!!!?????!!!!!

No thanks. If its all the same, I will send my mail via private carrier, and keep my health care with Blue Cross! Of course for liberals its not "all the same." Big government is the solution, after all shouldn't we be willing to trade quality for "feeling good" that everyone in America has the same postal service as me?

TAHL

Toledo as a Corporation - Solutions From the Bailout Debate?

2009-01-02T16:18:00.004-05:00

The City of Toledo is for all intents and purposes a large corporation. The problem is the corporation is out of money and the shareholders - THE CITIZENS - are not receiving any dividends.

We heard during the bailout talk related to the Big 3 auto makers, that we should allow them to fail, forcing them into bankruptcy which would EMPOWER them to re-negotiate contracts, cut the fat, and FORCE them to be more efficient. Should the same be allowed for the City of Toledo?

Take Back Toledo efforts aside, we have a Mayor/CEO who is not effective, a form of government that needs to be changed, and a council that is stuck on the same old ways. Recently an arbitrator held the City to its contract agreements with some of the labor unions while others refused to vote to pay a portion of their members' health care premiums, as little as $55.00 per month for family coverage. Could bankruptcy be the solution to a myriad of the City's problems?

The City is facing millions in deficit, a failure of basic services, engaging in improper layoffs and contract breaches, and there are few clear solutions visible in the near future. If the City were to declare bankruptcy the Federal Court would appoint a trustee who would oversee the re-organization and restructuring of the budget, EXERCISING POWER OVER THAT OF THE MAYOR.

The trustee would have the power to force re-negotiation of contracts, cease actions by the city in the private sector which are not profitable - including; the Erie St. Market, ambulance service, towing service, and mandate the sale of city property that may be available for revenue. A trustee could direct that basic services be funded first then IF AND AS NECESSARY secondary services or programs could be funded. It may even be possible for the trustee to force a change in the form of government back to a city manager style, or at a minimum, maintain an oversight function to monitor the progress of the City through the 5 year restructuring.

Tough times call for tough measures. The contracts which exist are enforceable, rightfully so, and the unions continue to hold the city hostage to concessions. The unions will not vote to carry a larger burden even though that may cost members jobs. Most importantly,the Mayor and council are stuck to the old method of make promises, raise fees, and disenfranchise businesses and taxpayers. Bankruptcy may be the solution the City needs.

TAHL

Hurry UP!!! ..........................Change is Coming!!!

2008-12-11T08:25:00.004-05:00

Fearful that "change" is coming, congress is working hard in this lame duck session to get as much as they can. Congress is working in a raise in the auto bail out package for federal judges.

The raise — an annual cost of living adjustment, or COLA — would bring U.S. District court judges up to par with members of Congress, who will receive an almost $5,000 boost on Jan. 1. District judges and lawmakers now earn $169,300 a year but are expected to be awarded a 2.8 percent raise next year, said Dick Carelli, a spokesman for the Administrative Office of the United States Courts.
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., insisted that the judicial pay raise go into the automaker loan measure, which is the only item of business on Congress' lame-duck agenda.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081210/ap_on_go_co/judicial_pay_raise

Lead of course by Harry Reid. I am NOT SAYING federal judges don't deserve a raise. I am simply showing how its more of the same in congress. Call some legislation an auto bailout, education, national security etc. bill, and pile on unrelated pork and spending.

TAHL

Ken Blackwell Announces Run for RNC Chair

2008-12-07T11:20:00.002-05:00

Ken Blackwell, former Ohio Secretary of State, has announced his run for the position of Chairman of the Republican National Committee. His announcement letter can be found here.

http://www.blackwell2009.com/lettertorncmembers.html

I think Blackwell would have made a fine Governor, and I believe he has a bright future in the Republican party.

TAHL

ODOT Driving business out of NW Ohio

2008-11-11T08:29:00.003-05:00

ODOT has increased the special permit fee for heavy loads over 3000% from $55 a quarter to $500 a quarter. Now trucks which have been using the Port of Toledo for shipping will instead choose Michigan ports to avoid the fee.

I e-mailed each state and federal representative and senator yesterday, as well as the governor. I got canned, auto-reply messages from many, but a personal email from Mark Wagoner. Mark also attached his letter to ODOT, sent the same day. I am working on posting the letter, but my blog inexperience is holding me up.

This move by ODOT will kill the Port of Toledo's recent success and the intermodal project. Get on the horn to everyone and anyone who will listen. If they won't listen, make them.

TAHL

Honored Thanks

2008-11-11T08:12:00.002-05:00

Happy Veteran's day. Please call, e-mail, write or personally thank a veteran or their families for their service today.

For some it is hard not to be cynical in these post-election days. But, believe in our Constitution, respect the office of the President, and continue to support and defend our Country.

Likewise, a belated happy birthday Marines.

TAHL

Educated but Misguided - a Harvard Socialist

2008-11-01T09:20:00.003-04:00

While both Presidential candidates spout rhetoric about how they will change policies, taxes, and all manner of government work, the most direct way they can impact our daily lives and liberties is through the Supreme Court.

Obama has stated - he believes the founding fathers got it wrong. He believes that the Constitution should be an enabling document, not a restricting document. While our tradition and history, gained through the tyranny of Britain, the blood of our forefathers, and the brilliance of the Founding Fathers - all point to the Constitution as a document to RESTRICT the power of government; Obama wants the Constitution and our legal system to make it an EMPOWERING document.

Currently all rights not specifically surrendered to the government remain with the citizens. Thus the Constitution LIMITS government power. Obama wants the Constitution to GIVE power to Government, and, only give the people those rights specifically granted. This flips the intention of a Democratic Republic on its head.

Obama will have the government exercise all powers not clearly given to the populous. While it should be the other way - the populous shall retain all rights not specifically granted to the government for very specific narrow purposes.

Obama is clear he thinks the Supreme Court has been wrong in not enforcing his wealth sharing, socialist version of what is right. He is clear that he thinks the Government is the proper entity to determine what the words of the Constitution mean, and what rights we retain.

He wants a Constitution that is "living." Which means subject to the whims and changes of culture with the ease of the stroke of a pen. The Constitution is changeable - but that change must be slow, deliberate, and difficult. It is the basis for a government system that was forged in revolution, drafted with a global look at human history over the ages, and the brilliance of the Founding Fathers who saw past the immediate needs and into the future of freedom.

Obama is clear - he will change the tenor and core of the Supreme Court with lifetime appointments - possible 2-3 Justices - naming judges who follow his belief that the Constitution is WRONG, and must be changed.

Please - regardless of the rhetoric - realize this is the single most powerful way the President can permanently effect our history and day to day lives and liberty - more so than the power as Commander in Chief, and vote accordingly.

TAHL

We The Sheeple!

2008-10-23T13:24:00.002-04:00

Who is helping to formulate the public's perceptions about the election? Sadly, in most instances in America, its the media. And, is the "mainstream media" balanced, objective, or equal in the presentation of the issues and candidates. OF COURSE NOT.

From the Washington Post today.

Study: Coverage of McCain Much More Negative Than That of Obama

By Howard Kurtz

Media coverage of John McCain has been heavily unfavorable since the political conventions, more than three times as negative as the portrayal of Barack Obama, a new study says. Fifty-seven percent of the print and broadcast stories about the Republican nominee were decidedly negative, the Project for Excellence in Journalism says in a report out today, while 14 percent were positive.

Will the TRUTH set us free? Probably not on November 4th, 2008. I admit, it is each citizens duty to inform themselves of the issues, facts, and records of the candidates. But given that the "mainstream" media is pumped into our homes via airwaves regulated by the Federal Govt. And given that the large media companies, CBS, ABC, NBC, CNN claim to be objective news providers, shouldn't they be held accountable for their bias? OR at least shouldn't the American sheeple know how they are being led? Don't get me started on NPR, a station funded with tax dollars.

I am not yet convinced Obama will win the election, but I am convinced a majority of voters are being mislead and lied to by the media.

TAHL

New Electric Cars in the Blade

2008-09-24T16:33:00.002-04:00

Today's Blade has an article about the up and coming electric cars from Chrysler.

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080924/BUSINESS02/809240299

I am for all types of efficient affordable transportation that lessens our dependence on foreign oil. I do not believe fossil fuels are EVIL, but recognize they are a finite resource.

BUT, when people talk about electric cars, or hybrids, how come they don't ask this question.

Where do we get the electricity to run them?

Why don't people ask this question? Because most on the left/environmental side don't want to admit the answer. The most efficient, safe, clean source of electricity is nuclear power, a four letter word in their world. What is the second most available source -- coal fired power plants. An evil carbon resource.

Now I am sure liberal anti-energy development proponents would counter with, What about hydro-electric? But that is oppression of the fishes. OR - Don't discount solar and wind power! I won't discount them, but I won't rationally consider them until the technology discounts their cost.

TAHL

Opportunity Lost

2008-09-24T14:29:00.003-04:00

Earlier this week I attended the Ohio Trucking Association state convention here in Toledo. This convention brings together some of the most powerful business interests in the state and nation. Officers from global companies such as Cummins and Chevron were present. Representatives from the larges trucking companies in Ohio and the nation were in attendance, along with small operations and single owner-operators. There were also a few lawyers and other service industry representatives such as insurance agents.

Mayor Finkbeiner was scheduled to open the convention. A chance to address the collective group of powerful businessmen and women who are key to any growth of Toledo's, Lucas County's and Ohio's business community. But, at the start of the convention, it was expressed to the audience that organizers were uncertain if the Mayor was coming, so they started without him.

He showed up late, about 30 minutes late. Carty breezed into the room, read and presented a plaque showing a "proclamation" of how important the OTA was with a bunch of "whereas" language, gave lip service to the InterModal Project, and left.

Instead of addressing the group with sincere comments, encouragement, and plans for making Toledo and NW Ohio more business friendly and profitable for all, he insulted a group of powerful business people, and strolled off, not to be seen again at the two day event.

Now I don't know what was on his calender for the day. I don't know what pressing business kept him from getting out of bed on time, and meeting his commitment to this group at 8 a.m., or what occupied his time for the next two full days of convention; but I do know he did the City and its citizens a disservice with his actions and attitude.

TAHL

Extreme Makeover Cynisism

2008-09-16T10:00:00.002-04:00

I truly enjoy the show - I have changed my purchasing habits to use companies such as Sears who support the show. But I find myself becoming more cynical, and I predicted this to a co-worker.

"The University of Toledo is offering full scholarships for all 11 boys — with a potential value of more than $250,000 — and Lourdes College will give scholarships of $2,000 per year, per child, renewable for four years."

UT - A PUBLIC UNIVERSITY - funded by TAXES - giving away 11 scholarships based solely on the fact that these children made it on TV!!! This I have a problem with. Lourdes College- GREAT - private university. Private citizens or private companies raising or donating a fund for college - EVEN BETTER. But, for UT to give these scholarships to these 11 kids is improper.

Come all ye haters and attackers - I know your out there. It is situations like this which pit my human sympathy and empathy against my political ideology and economic philosophy which make for the best debate.

TAHL

Check The Record

2008-09-05T12:36:00.002-04:00

ZerObama is claiming that he will cut the taxes of 95% of Americans, however, his party's history and his RECORD, prove this to be an outright lie, or an Epiphany and the Turning Over a New Leaf of epic proportions.

I say its a lie.

OBAMA SUPPORTED HUNDREDS OF TAX INCREASES IN THE STATE SENATE:

ABC’s Terry Moran: “[O]bama was considered a reliable liberal Democratic vote in Illinois. For instance, voting for most gun control measures, opposing efforts to ban so-called partial birth abortions and supporting hundreds of tax increases.” (ABC’s “Nightline,” 2/25/08)
In 2004, Obama voted for a $304 million tax increase on businesses in creating the Tax Shelter Voluntary Compliance Act. (H.B. 848, Illinois Senate Floor Third Reading, Passed 30-28-1, 5/20/04, Obama Voted Yea; Dave McKinney, “Blagojevich Threatens Up To 5,000 State Layoffs,” Chicago Sun-Times, 5/21/04)

*“The governor’s bid to raise taxes and fees by close to $400 million and reel in another $300 million-plus in corporate tax breaks has triggered a huge outcry from business groups, which contend the moves will drive companies out of state and cause Illinois to lose jobs.” (Dave McKinney and Leslie Griffy, “Blagojevich Threatens Up To 5,000 State Layoffs,” Chicago Sun-Times, 5/21/04)

“Obama voted for a bill during the 2003 Illinois General Assembly legislative session that raised a huge number of fees and taxes for businesses and licenses to cover day-to-day expenses of state government.” (Terrence L. Barnich, Op-Ed, “4 Partisan Questions For Obama,” Chicago Tribune, 7/29/04)

*“Almost 17,000 fewer commercial trucks and 2,700 fewer trucking companies have been registered in Illinois for 2005, fueling the trucking industry’s claim that Gov. Rod Blagojevich is driving businesses out of the state with his new fees and business taxes.” (Brian Wallheimer, “Governor’s New Fees Are Driving Trucking Firms Out Of Illinois, Industry Says,” St. Louis Post- Dispatch, 5/5/04)

In 2003, Obama voted to tax natural gas purchased outside of Illinois. (S.B. 1733, Bill Status, www.ilga.gov, Accessed 2/11/08; S.B. 1733: Concurrence In House Amendment #4, Passed 31-27-00, 5/31/03, Obama Voted Yea)

*“The natural gas tax. A new policy under Blagojevich’s budget will make natural gas more expensive to industrial buyers. Currently, Illinois offers an exemption on the sales tax paid for natural gas, but the new budget ends that exemption, a move that could become a major expense for steel mills and other factories that use large quantities of natural gas.” (Kevin McDermott, “Area Dodged Legislative Hit On Schools, Roads,” St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 6/8/03)

* Obama voted for the Natural Gas Tax, which threatened jobs, at the same time that Illinois was leading the Nation in jobs lost. “Just as harmful to the state’s economy are the large taxes on natural gas brought from out-of-state suppliers and the rolling stock sales tax. Both of these taxes will negatively affect important businesses as well as the employees who are dependent on these Illinois companies. I have received phone calls and letters from all sectors of the business community who reported that the projected loss of revenues due to these increased taxes and fees may well cause them to close their facilities in Illinois and move to a more business-friendly surrounding state while still serving Illinois customers. Illinois leads the nation in jobs lost. We cannot afford to drive more businesses from our state.” (State Rep. Carolyn Krause, Op-Ed, “Increase Tax Incentives, Not Taxes For Businesses,” Chicago Tribune, 6/13/03)

In 1999, Obama voted in favor of S.B. 1028 to create the Illinois First Infrastructu
re Program, which raised 146 taxes and fees. (S.B. 1028: Senate Floor Third Reading, Passed, 58-0-0, 3/23/99, Obama Voted Yea; S.B. 1028: Senate Conference Committee Report, Passed, 42-17-0, 5/21/99, Obama Voted Yea; Editorial, “Jack Ryan Woefully Unprepared For Attack On Obama,” The State Journal-Register, 4/18/04)

OBAMA HAS REPEATEDLY VOTED FOR HIGHER TAXES IN THE U.S. SENATE:

It’s no surprise that Obama would raise taxes as President, because he’s repeatedly voted for higher taxes in the Senate:

Obama Voted At Least 94 Times For Higher Taxes In The U.S. Senate. (RNC Research)
*To date, Obama has voted for a tax increase approximately once EVERY FIVE DAYS Congress Has Been In Session. (RNC Research; The Library Of Congress Website, thomas.loc.gov, Accessed 6/8/08)

Obama Voted At Least 12 Times For Higher Income Taxes. (RNC Research)

Obama Voted Against Marriage Penalty Relief At Least Twice. (RNC Research)

Obama Voted Against Extending The Expanded Child Tax Credit. (RNC Research)

Obama Voted At Least 3 Times Against Repealing The 1993 Income Tax Increase On Social Security Benefits. (RNC Research)

Obama Has Voted At Least 5 Times Against Providing Relief From The Alternative Minimum Tax. (RNC Research)

Obama Has Voted At Least 7 Times Against Tax Incentives Benefiting Small Business. (RNC Research)

Obama Voted Against Capital Gains Tax Cuts At Least 9 Times. (RNC Research)

Obama Voted Against Tax Cuts On Dividend Income At Least 9 Times. (RNC Research)

Obama Voted In Favor Of The Democrats’ FY 2009 Budget, Which Would Raise Tax Rates For Americans Earning As Little As $31,850:

Obama Voted Twice In Favor Of The Democrats’ FY 2009 Budget Resolution. (S. Con. Res. 70, CQ Vote #85, Adopted 51-44: R 2-43; D 47-1; I 2-0, 3/14/08, Obama Voted Yea; S. Con. Res. 70, CQ Vote #142: Adopted 48- 45: R 2- 44; D 44- 1; I 2-0, 6/4/08, Obama Voted Yea)
“Under both Democratic plans, tax rates would increase by 3 percentage points for each of the 25 percent, 28 percent and 33 percent brackets. At present, the 25 percent bracket begins at $31,850 for individuals and $63,700 for married couples. The 35 percent bracket on incomes over $349,700 would jump to 39.6 percent.” (Andrew Taylor, “Presidential Hopefuls To Vote On Budget,” The Associated Press, 3/13/08)

NOTE: Obama’s vote for the Democrats’ Budget is at odds with his rhetoric on the campaign trail, where he claims he’ll provide tax relief for working Americans. Obama: “I’ll give a tax cut to working people …” (Sen. Barack Obama, Remarks At A Campaign Rally, Denver, CO, 1/30/08)

OBAMA’S TAX, SPENDING AND BUSINESS INTEREST GROUP RATINGS:

“In 2006, [Obama] was one of 13 Senate Democrats with a PERFECT Liberal score on economic issues.” (Richard E. Cohen, “Left To Right,” National Journal, 3/3/07) –emphasis mine–
Americans for Tax Reform gave Obama a lifetime rating of 7.5 Out Of 100. (Americans For Tax Reform Website, www.atr.org, Accessed 1/29/08)

Citizens Against Government Waste gave Obama a lifetime rating of 22 out Of 100. (Citizens Against Government Waste, “CCAGW Challenges Presidential Candidates On Earmarks,” Press Release, 12/27/07)

The National Taxpayers Union gave Obama a grade of “F” for his fiscal voting record. (National Taxpayers Union Website, www.ntu.org, Accessed 9/25/07)

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce gave Obama a 33 percent rating in 2007. (U.S. Chamber Of Commerce Website, www.uschamber.com, Accessed 6/6/08)

Source: http://savagepolitics.com/?p=770

TAHL

A New Slogan for Change

2008-09-04T12:36:00.001-04:00

As I watched Gov. Palin's historic speech last night, and saw the delegates chanting when Obama was mentioned I came up with a new slogan. Feel free to use and steal it, just give the AssHole Lawyer some credit

Zer-O-bama

Nuff Said!

TAHL

Happy Labor Day!

2008-09-01T09:26:00.003-04:00

Happy Labor Day. If you are currently in labor, or your water has broken, please go to the hospital. Otherwise, a parade is fine. However, at the parade be careful using words such as Freedom, Liberty, Choice, and Lower Taxes. It would be best to wear you Obama T-Shirt if you don't want any trouble.

Big labor -- that's right Big Labor not Big Oil is increasing its influence on the Democrat party and expects to get returns on their investment in this election cycle. That investment - forced mandatory political contributions from union members - is losing its power so the unions are seeking legislative help. They support and expect congress to pass a national labor law making the secret ballot a thing of the past.

http://townhall.com/Columnists/ScottBensing/2008/08/20/secrets_are_no_fun_for_unions

Forget your god given right to work, earn, and save YOUR MONEY, now the union wants to know if you voted for or against them in an election. Don't worry, I'm sure that if you are a union worker who has seen the light and vote against your union - there won't be any repercussions. The union is only looking out for YOU.

Right.

Anyway - enjoy the day off, BBQ some meat, and tomorrow go back to work, put your head down, work hard, and hold tight to your wallet. If Obama wins, your wallet, your choices and your FREEDOMS will be reduced.

TAHL

We Have Come So Far So Fast!

2008-08-29T09:09:00.003-04:00

We are a young country, and in 232 years have made progress in every arena leaps and bounds ahead of those across the world. Last night, Barrack Obama became the first African American to accept a major party's nomination for President. A Harvard grad., a Senator, and child of a mixed marriage. We have come so far.

Slavery and servitude has existed in Asia for thousands of years, Slavery and Servitude has existed and continues in the Middle East, and Slavery and Servitude has existed and continues in Africa . Yet We Have Overcome! The candidacy and nomination of Obama are proof of this fact.

But, wait..........................When he looses, the voices singing praise, "crying their eyelashes off," and bursting with pride will DECRY RACISM IS ALIVE IN AMERICA. Because when he looses, due to his lack of experience, lack of candor, extreme liberal voting record, and his socialist plan which will wreak havoc on our country and citizens, these factors will not be cited as the reason.

The Claims will be - White Racist Conservative Christian America supports the status Quo. Barrack Lost Because he is Black.

Barrack should loose because he is wrong. Wrong on taxes, wrong on energy, wrong on Socialism, wrong on national security, and wrong on health care. He is inexperienced and illogical in his economic and policy positions. That is why he will loose.

But we will never hear it, amidst the cries of racism and politics of division.

TAHL

Roar the Rhetoric

2008-08-23T08:53:00.002-04:00

Barrack Obama has picked one of the loudest and longest rhetoric spewers as his running mate. Joe Biden's volume and well volume of anti-bush, anti capitalism socialist rhetoric is well established and full off guffaws and misstatements. He may have picked the only person who has made more off handed, inappropriate, dumb-ass statements than the many Bushisms we have grown to love.

Sure he is experienced -- VERY EXPERIENCED - so much for change. He does help Obama firm up the foreign policy experience on the ticket, but that's not enough to make up for Obama's inexperience and extreme liberal voting record. And if you think Barrack Obama is going to take direction from a long standing, dug in like a tick, catholic democrat "with blue collar roots," you are sadly mistaken. Biden is a great pick because he won't expect much, heck ANYTHING, from Obama. Biden is part of the most unsuccessful, stagnant, and least popular congress in history. With two failed bids for the Presidency himself, his time in the limelight was ending - and he will tow the line for Barrack just to keep in the game.

He promised during his recent run to trim down his long winded diatribes, but a leopard can't change his spots. It won't be long, he will get foot in mouth disease, worked up into a sweat, yelling BUSH LIED - MCCAIN TRIED! or some crap.

Thanks Barrack - you did us a solid on this one.

TAHL

One Small Step for The President --- $6.00 drop for Oil!!

2008-07-16T08:53:00.007-04:00

Economist Larry Kudlow wrote yesterday.

"In a dramatic move yesterday President Bush removed the executive-branch moratorium on offshore drilling. Today, at a news conference, Bush repeated his new position, and slammed the Democratic Congress for not removing the congressional moratorium on the Outer Continental Shelf and elsewhere. Crude-oil futures for August delivery plunged $9.26, or 6.3 percent, almost immediately as Bush was speaking, bringing the barrel price down to $136. Now isn’t this interesting? Democrats keep saying that it will take 10 years or longer to produce oil from the offshore areas. And they say that oil prices won’t decline for at least that long. And they, along with Obama and McCain, bash so-called oil speculators.

And today we had a real-world example as to why they are wrong. All of them. Reid, Pelosi, Obama, McCain — all of them."

"Yes Virginia, there is a way we can influence the price of oil, in the SHORT TERM." Oil prices are controlled by speculators who try and predict the FUTURE prices of a barrel. In the wake of increased domestic production (to the tune of millions of barrels a day) and increases in other forms of energy, nuclear, coal, and eventually alternative energy; speculators and OPEC, who understand supply and demand economics will reduce the price of oil NOW.

OPEC understands that the best method to reduce global competition in the oil supply is the political limitation America puts on itself. As soon as it appears Americans gain the political will to drill, OPEC will increase supply, drop the price, and take away the immediate economic incentive felt by the previously anti-drilling Americans.
Nice job Bush, your not so lame duck after all.

TAHL

2008-06-30T15:16:00.012-04:00

The picture below shows some FACTS about ANWR. The Democrats don't want to drill in ANWR. They cite to its beauty, pristine nature, the animals that will be run off their natural habitat, and the limited oil supply in the region. BUT. The facts and history get in the way. The Prudhoe Bay oil fields provide 17% of our domestic production. All estimates of the reserves in ANWR dwarf the reserves found at both Prudhoe Bay and Kuparik. Prudhoe Bay has been churning out millions of barrels a day for over 25 years.

Here is the real ANWR.

ANWR IN SUMMER!

This is ANWR in winter - where the drilling is proposed.

Below is what the Democrats want you to believe ANWR looks like.

This is the ANWR Democrats want you to see. But, its not quite accurate. Yes its in ANWR, but not where the drilling is proposed.

Do You know what ANWR is? The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Do you know Where?

Here is some comparison.

REMEMBER THE DOT.

THAT'S WHERE THE PROPOSED DRILLING AREA IS, A SMALL POINT IN THE YELLOW PORTION ABOVE!!!

Do you remember the map?

The map showed that the proposed drilling area is in the ANWR Coastal Plain

WHAT'S GOING ON HERE?

AS YOU CAN SEE, THE AREA WHERE THEY ARE TALKING ABOUT DRILLING IS A BARREN WASTELAND.

NOW, WHY DO YOU THINK THAT THE DEMOCRATS ARE against drilling in ANWR?

REMEMBER WHEN AL GORE SAID THAT THE GOVERNMENT SHOULD WORK TO ARTIFICIALLY RAISE GAS PRICES TO $5.00 A GALLON?

WELL.
AL GORE AND HIS FELLOW DEMOCRATS HAVE ALMOST REACHED THEIR GOAL!

Milk to High? Tax and limit the cow!

2008-06-10T12:46:00.003-04:00

Global demand for oil drove prices higher today as market insiders predicted an increase in demand from China as a result of earthquake reconstruction projects.

"The catalyst for oil's latest advance was an International Energy Agency report that said global demand will continue to rise, especially in China. Demand for fuel for reconstruction work in the aftermath of May's earthquake will boost Chinese oil demand by 5.5 percent this year, the IEA said, a slightly higher forecast than in previous reports. 'A 5.5 percent increase in one of the largest consumers of oil in the world is a lot of barrels of oil,' said Jim Ritterbusch, president of energy consultancy Ritterbusch and Associates in Galena, Ill."

http://moneynews.newsmax.com/economy/oil_prices/2008/06/10/103219.html

So, while congress wants to tax the domestic oil companies earnings and limit domestic production through restrictions on refinery construction, nuclear power construction, and domestic drilling; the Democrats solution to high gas prices is to tax oil companies earnings. Tax the cow.

If a farmer pays $1 for his grazing land, $1 for feed, and $1 to buy a milk cow; he might sell a gallon of milk for $3.08, making an 8 cent profit. Most people would not accuse him of Milk gouging, but if people complained of the high price of milk, the Democrats' solution would be to tax the Farmer's profit by 1 cent. What would happen?

The farmer (who's costs are fixed) would increase the price of milk by 1 cent, and because of his perception of increase government interference, he would be hesitant to buy a few more cows to spread the cost of his land purchase over two or three animals.

Oil is milk, energy companies are farmers. RECORD PROFITS BY OIL COMPANIES!!! Nice headline to build class warfare and envy upon. However, an oil companies general profit is 8 percent, or 8 cents on the dollar. Because the Democrats have not allowed them to build refineries, nuclear plants, or expand domestic drilling for 30 years, the company can't reduce their set costs of raw materials. The energy companies are stuck producing as much domestic energy as logistically possible, and purchasing re rest of the oil on the market. Who are they competing with in that market ----- CHINA.

So, until energy companies are allowed to develop domestic sources, the price of oil will remain high, and the Democrats solution is to tax them more.

I guess I will drink water, but thats another issue all together.

The A-Hole.

Freedom, Liberty and Choice take a back seat....

2008-06-06T20:24:00.004-04:00

The House and Senate and our fine Governor cut another slice out of the freedom pie this week. They passed and he signed the restriction on Pay Day loans.

Only big brother can properly decide the correct choice for you financially, protect you from "predators," oh, and limit your freedom.

Here was the vote. With a grand total of 28 members standing for liberty and the Constitution.

Unofficial Votes for House Bill 545
* See Journal for the official record of the vote.
Journal
Vote
05/14/2008
Senate - Third Consideration
summary
Yeas - 29
Amstutz
Austria
Boccieri
Cafaro
Carey
Cates
Coughlin
Faber
Fedor
Goodman
Grendell
Jacobson
Kearney
Mason
Miller D
Miller R
Morano
Niehaus
Padgett
Roberts
Sawyer
Schaffer
Schuring
Smith
Spada
Stivers
Wagoner
Wilson
Harris

Nays - 4
Buehrer
Mumper
Schuler
Seitz

05/20/2008
House - Senate Amendments
summary
Yeas - 70
Bacon
Batchelder
Blessing
Bolon
Book
Boyd
Brady
Brown
Budish
Carmichael
Celeste
DeBose
DeGeeter
DeWine
Dodd
Dolan
Driehaus
Dyer
Evans
Fende
Flowers
Foley
Gardner
Garrison
Gerberry
Goyal
Hagan J.
Hagan R.
Harwood
Heard
Hottinger
Hughes
Jones
Koziura
Letson
Lundy
Mallory
Mandel
McGregor J.
McGregor R.
Miller
Newcomb
Oelslager
Okey
Patton
Peterson
Raussen
Redfern
Sayre
Schindel
Schlichter
Schneider
Sears
Skindell
Slesnick
Stebelton
Stewart D.
Stewart J.
Szollosi
Ujvagi
Wagner
Webster
White
Widener
Widowfield
Williams B.
Williams S.
Wolpert
Yates
Husted

Nays - 24
Adams
Aslanides
Brinkman
Chandler
Coley
Collier
Combs
Core
Daniels
Domenick
Fessler
Gibbs
Goodwin
Hite
Huffman
Luckie
Mecklenborg
Reinhard
Setzer
Strahorn
Uecker
Wachtmann
Yuko
Zehringer

Thankfully Michigan allows payday lending - more business heading north.

Shameful - remember these names in the voting booth.

The A-Hole

That was ACTING!! Thank You!

2008-05-22T15:04:00.004-04:00

Last night I spent some time with..................well........................lawyers. For the first time I attended the annual Toledo Junior Bar Association's Grid Iron Show. BRAVA!

I had gone to the pre-party the year before, but not the event. This spectacle provides a prime example of what lawyers and the legal community can and should be about. Good spirited, satirical, high and low brow self examination and discourse; with some local and national political humor as well.

This is not a common event among other Ohio or national metropolitan bar associations as far as I know. Perhaps that is why, for the most part, the members of our legal community - while being staunch advocates for their clients and personal beliefs - maintain a professional collegial respect with each other. And it never hurts to laugh at yourself a little bit either.

The name of my blog is after all, The Asshole Lawyer. While most people (ok the three who read it) understand the purpose of such a self deprecating title - others may take offense; believing I am catering to the chorus of voices who disparage our profession, discount our contribution, and seem to forget that when you have a problem who ya gonna call? Ghost Busters - nope, the cops and a lawyer. But as the Grid Iron shows, pointing the finger in the mirror and laughing can be great way to face reality.

Great job to the cast and crew of the Grid Iron. See ya next year.

The A-Hole.

Fatties - Foreclosures - and Floatillas

2008-05-21T09:04:00.003-04:00

The city recently addressed a myriad of issues related to health, economic development and growth in our fair city and county. Over the last weeks the Mayor and council have voted, regulated and proselytized in areas of health (our fat city) land ownership and transfer (land contract restrictions) and recreational development (the marina funding).

These three subjects are only the most recent examples and illustrations of how our city government (much like all democratic party controlled governments) solve problems. MORE GOVERNMENT REGULATION FUNDED BY TAXES.

Yesterday's revelation that again Toledo is ranked as one of the most unhealthy cities in America spurred the Mayor to; call for more government built bike paths; highlight the 12 miles of paths and trails already constructed; and attack those who voice disagreement with those plans by calling them fat.

The council recently passed restrictions of land contract property sales to protect innocent citizens from predatory unscrupulous land speculators - claiming of course that the poor are victims of such schemes. Now that is both insulting and oppressive. "You are too poor and stupid to look out for yourself, so we will regulate your rights for you!" No cry of racism or elitism was heard however.

Lastly - we are now "benefiting" from state tax dollars being earmarked for the marina project. But wait - remember class - ALL TAX DOLLARS ARE YOUR MONEY!! Neither federal government, the state government nor the local government make their own money. So we are now stealing from a statewide tax base - for our benefit. Why - to "enable" the development of the project as promised for years and years. If the marina project, Swan Creek project and yes the unfunded arena project are good investments in the future of Toledo and NW Ohio, that investment should come from private sources - assisted by government DEREGULATION AND REDUCED INTERFERENCE - not by more tax dollars.

The A-Hole

Revenuers, Speculators, and Taxmen

2008-04-26T08:48:00.003-04:00

They Got Me! Despite my general cynicism and dislike of the mayor and the Blade, they got me. A bright full color picture in the sun, an artists rendering of the new upscale Swan Creek, and 4.2 MILLION DOLLARS plastered across the top. But the truth is, its business as usual for the Mayor, the City Counsel, and The Blade.

This is not a sale. This is land speculation. With a token deposit (which it can get back) Tetra Tech gets to hold its place in line, let the city do the homework, fact checking, and CLEANUP, and then MAYBE - Tetra Tech will spend some real money.

Not likely. I should have known when the mayor said "if you want the details talk to the lawyers" that something was afoot.

Its rare, but I was fooled; and had engaged in a discussion with a co-worked about how nice it was to see the city and the mayor do something right for a change.

Toledo's version of oil speculation has come to town, but I don't see Daniel Day Lewis skulking around town in 1820's garb, promising to build churches.

The A-Hole.

From a tad-POLL to a toad.

2008-03-06T15:51:00.002-05:00

I decided if I was going to comment on the process, I should have some sense of it, so I worked the polls for the primary. I must admit, after my training session, and meeting my precinct team on the Monday night beforehand, I was sure it would be a fiasco. Luckily all went well.

I worked the Ottawa Hills H.S. polling location, and yes I am well aware that more populated precincts were much busier and less staffed, but I was pleasantly surprised at how the system worked.

We had input from “seasoned” poll workers (many of whom apparently have been doing their civic duty since before I was born), we had team leaders called “presiding judges” to help us regular poll judges get by, and we all worked well as a team. As I mentioned; armed and educated by a three hour training session and a pre-primary night meeting at the polling location to set up the machines, we leaped feet first into the fray Tuesday morning at 6:00 a.m. I left the location at just after 8:00 p.m. in the freezing rain and sleet. A long but satisfying day.

I saw children with their parents to join in the “historic vote” on the democrat ticket. I saw 17 year old students who will be 18 in November, vote for the first time. I worked with one dedicated 17 year old high school student who was there for the day, not for the money, not because he was president of the young republicans at his school, and not because he had some required community service hours to complete, but simply because he wanted to learn and experience the system first hand.

The machines worked like a charm. For the skeptics paper ballots were available upon request. I debated the machine vs. paper with a co-worker on Wednesday. Reading about the “lost memory cards” she was convinced that the old way was more reliable. I argued (successfully I might add) that we have no idea how successful the old way was, because we were comfortably naive about lost ballots, missing ballots, discarded ballots, ballots dropped in the ocean, or uncounted absentee military ballots. Because of the accuracy and immediate results which are possible with electronic ballots we now KNOW MORE about lost votes and can react accordingly. And knowledge is power, even if it only leads to finger pointing and cries of voter interference and disenfranchisement.

Like DeWine said - not a single electronic machine ran out of paper ballots. Yes in Lucas County some memory cards containing the votes were missing for at time; but guess what - officials knew exactly how many memory cards, where they should have been, and where to look because the cards are a known number. Therefore they could find them, and as necessary - return to the proper machines and re-record the votes. VWALLA!!

Did we ever know when a bag, box, crate, pallet or truckload of paper ballots went missing in the good ole days? No. Because we could not know the accurate number of paper ballots cast across the hundreds of thousands of voters, OR, design out the human error factor in casting, collecting, and counting them, we simply never knew the total of lost or incorrectly cast ballots.

So despite my initial cynicism, I became a convinced believer in the system, the machines, and the process. A proud, long day well spent.

The A-Hole.

PS…..and I get paid!!!!!

Please - for your own good - Read Walter Williams

2008-02-19T17:55:00.000-05:00

Walter Williams

The A-Hole

An Electable Ticket

2008-02-07T09:10:00.000-05:00

It looks like McCain is going to be the republican nominee. Question is, if he is facing a Clinton/Obama ticket or an Obama/Clinton ticket (less likely) who can republicans put up to win.

I know she has said NO WAY for years, but if the ticket for the democrats is that strong and historical, would Condoleeza Rice reconsider a vice presidency, for her country, for her party, for her race and for her gender.

McCain/Rice would be electable. She might reassure conservative republicans who are worried about McCain's liberal leanings. She would draw moderate, independent, and undecided women and African American voters to the right, and, she is probably the smartest person in the current cabinet.

CMON CONDI - Please - for God and Country - take a four year job in the Vice President's quarters. If you don't want to be President, so be it.

The A-Hole

Hillary's Hyphen??

2008-01-30T23:02:00.000-05:00

So I will admit, the spark for my thoughts on this subject came from a morning radio comedy show co-host (Frankenstine never scared me).

What ever happended to Hillary's Hyphen?

For years she was the proud, bra burning, strong woman, independant Hillary Rodam-Clinton. Now she is just Hillary Clinton.

Liberal in moderates clothing? Pandering to the independants, the moderate republicans and the undecided? Pretending to be someone she is not. NEVER!!!

But what about the Gloria Stienem crew? Who has she abondoned to appear electable? And where are those long standing principles of independance, strength, I am woman hear me roar.

Next thing you know John McCain will BE HYPHENATED.

The A-Hole.

Let the fear Mongering Begin

2008-01-26T10:03:00.000-05:00

Well it has begun! In response to a visiting civil rights leaders call for black citizens to vote against the renewal of the .75% income tax the Mayor has begun his fear mongering. Scare voters into believing that without the tax - fires will rage, criminals will rein, and garbage will choke the streets alleys and driveways of Toledo. The Blade Article outlines the Mayors comments on the recent call for a no vote to the tax renewal.

Please. The Mayor knows that the best way to insure the voters of Toledo will renew the tax is to scare them into it. Notice he does not claim that without the tax he may have to

1) Reduce the size of his staff.
2) Stop purchasing real estate in the failed Southwick Mall
3) Disband his fleet of ambulances and turn the service back over to private business
4) Trim the budget of entitlements and pet project give aways like lights for the trees downtown, or flowers, or Toledo Pride signs displaying his name.

There are lots of ways the City could and should reduce its spending and leave police fire and garbage alone.

But instead, right out of the political handbook - he spreads fear and insults anyone who dare challenge his control over the purse strings.

Vote no. Make the City trim the fat -- perhaps starting with his Honor.

The A-Hole

Private Investment in the Citizens, with proper Political Support

2008-01-18T15:37:00.000-05:00

So some County Commissioners and state officials, along with PRIVATE BANKS are providing educational seminars to citizens to improve their credit, and free tax assistance through the VITA program. Kudos.

I know the utilities at the library, some of the advertising and administrative costs, and other items will be paid for with tax dollars, but the primary funding (including free breakfast) appears to be coming from private banks. WOO HOO. Finally our elected officials fulfilling their proper role; support private investment in the community, educate through press release and conferences, and keep the tax dollars spent to a minimum.

I know, I may be missing a big hole in the scheme, and may be naive in my early congratulatory remarks. But at least Ben didn't announce, COUNTY COFFERS PAY FOR FREE TAX PREPARATION FOR THE NEEDY.

The A-Hole.

A Refreshing Choice

2008-01-06T10:34:00.000-05:00

After watching the New Hampshire debates I am no closer to picking a candidate.

I wish MOST of Ron Paul's views could be presented by a less "Ross Perot" like figure, who was not so extreme on the anti-war issue. I wish I had a more confidence in Romney's purported beliefs on conservative issues, and I just wish Guliani was more conservative overall.

But - outside of national defense - McCain showed his true colors again proving him to be a RINO. Immigration, energy, free speech (campaign finance reform)are all issues he is firmly closer to the Democrats on than I.

Will Huckabee continue his roll? I am not convinced, but he will make an interesting choice in the primary. Thompson remains my favorite, but I just don't think he will make it.

With such divergence of thought, experience, and style we have perhaps the best chance in history to vote for the candidate who shares our beliefs on issues, tally them up, and pick the candidate with which we share the most beliefs.

Many of the Republican candidates have actual methods to improve on the issues they speak of, not just rhetoric - with no plan. Not just "change for change sake" but, here is the needed change, and here is the way to implement the change.

Keep your eyes on the prize people, safety, lower taxes to KEEP our economy strong, and less government control. Need an example of how well government can control things - Look no further than the Erie Street Market.

The-AHole

Don't forget - www.copsandlawyers.blogspot.com

Increase while you can - limit the damage later

2007-11-08T08:53:00.000-05:00

City counsel is considering a proposal to increase the fine for speeding and red light violations caught by traffic cameras within the city. Personal, political, and constitutional arguments aside, why would the city counsel be considering such a move at this time while a case is currently before the Ohio Supreme Court on the constitutionality of such tickets, and legislation has been proposed at the state level banning all such measures. Additionally, several cases from Toledo are currently being litigated on this issue, including, as the recent Blade article stated, one seeking class action status.

Why not wait. If the violations are ruled to be unconstitutional, or the legislation passes banning them, what benefit will the city have gained by this most recent move. The counsel may in fact have created a larger job for the law department in attempting to collect from the private company after the fact and defending the potential flood of lawsuits.

The facts about this enforcement method are sketchy at best. They have not been shown to reduce accidents. When a driver is approaching an intersection with a camera, it is unlikely they have the time or aforethought to consider the camera when making the decision to go through or aggressively apply their brakes. IF they do consider the camera, they are likely to stop more abruptly (or try to, often on wet/icy roads), potentially causing more accidents when the drivers behind them don't anticipate the quick stop. On a national level the cameras have been shown to be ineffective, and increase accidents.

I trust the science; the technology, delay in photo activation, and video replay systems in place are accurate. BUT, I don't agree with taking enforcement discretion out of the equation, removing the due process rights of: confrontation, presentation of evidence, and fair trial/hearing out of traffic enforcement for financial gain. But I digress.

My initial point is, once again the city is considering a counterproductive, potentially inefficient and costly move toward increased government control, the big brother state, and waisting its time and resources on measures that may be deemed illegal soon by our Supreme Court and Legislature.

Take a breath Carty, Chief Navarre and Counsel................lets see where the chips fall before we ante up more citizens freedom for the almighty dollar to a private Arizona company.

I guess I will add my pending red light ticket to the class action.

The A-Hole.

Sad Appreciation

2007-11-02T14:56:00.000-04:00

Today on my way into work I pulled behind a shiny new TPD patrol cruiser.

My first thought was, "cool a new police car, they deserve it, and as a city we deserve it." I was all warm and fuzzy feeling inside.

Then it hit me. HOW SAD is it that I am so used to seeing crappy, broken down, dirty, embarrassing patrol cars, that this clean new one was a shock and surprise.

Toledo and NW Ohio have allot to offer (and I don't want to be known as one of the people who down Toledo as a city) but the Mayor's policies, budget decisions, politics and the Democrat's long standing control over the area make it harder and harder each day.

Vote early, vote often.............no new taxes ----- and limit the old ones too.

The A-Hole.

Counter Productive?? A union does Toledo another disservice

2007-10-18T13:32:00.000-04:00

A corporate giant buys HCR Manor care. Manor care appears to be a well run company providing quality service. (Notice before the buyout there were no cries of mistreated residents or poor health care at their facilities.) The corporate giant at this point may not have any reason to move the headquarters, fire personnel, or make any large scale changes, all of which would cost substantial amounts of money.

BUT.

A union - seeing a chance to make some headlines - decides to protest the corporate buyout, knowing full well that they will have ZERO IMPACT in the decision to sell. In standard union form they attack the income of the director, make false allegations about the quality of the service provided (health care will decline), and attempt to influence people through fear -- "The 700 jobs will be lost to elsewhere!!!"

SO.

The corporate giant, who previously did not have a reason to make changes, sees this political stunt as in indication of the headaches it may face if it maintains the headquarters of its newly acquired corporation in Toledo, Ohio. Measuring the cost of change against the cost and heartache of the status quo, do you think the union has DECREASED the likelihood of Toledo losing these 700 jobs or INCREASED that chance?

Do you think other large employers who may consider NW Ohio as a potential investment location are encouraged to do so when faced with this union protest, or more likely to choose another city for investment?

We won't even talk about the other businesses in that building being adversely effected by the locked doors. Ficocia's apparently was "closed for repairs," or the expenditure of YOUR TAX DOLLARS on the increased police presence at this sham of a political stunt.

The A-Hole.

SCHIP - Rhetoric - Another Ohio Dem. on YouTube

2007-10-17T15:32:00.000-04:00

Apparently Robin Weirauch is on Youtube attacking Bush and conservatives who support his veto of the SCHIP program expansion.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nxq3OuN7WXA

With Ohio already expanding its child health insurance welfare program to include families living 200% over the federal poverty line it is no surprise that another Ohio democrat wants to increase Uncle Sam's control of our pocketbooks, wallets, and soon our medical charts, treatment and care.

All the while demonizing cold hearted conservatives who believe in small government, and the idea that the government should not TAKE from me, to GIVE to someone else, regardless of purpose and especially if that person or their family is making $60,000+ a year.

Democrat political definitions: a failure to expand a program = a cut.

Failure to support taking your money (remember kids the Govt. HAS NO MONEY OF ITS OWN) and giving it to someone the Govt. FEELS is deserving = a cold hearted, uncaring, desire to see innocent children suffer.

The A-Hole.

Thank you Stranahan

2007-10-06T14:55:00.000-04:00

I want to send a thank you to the Stranahan family, foundation, et al.

The Stranahan Foundation is the reason conservative speakers and guests come to the University of Toledo College of Law. The foundation set up a fund to finance such speeches and events at the law school because Mr. Stranahan knew he could not ensure his money would be used to support conservative ideas if he just gave it to the law school administration. Of this I know what I speak.

Last night I took my family to the Stranahan theater for the first time. We saw Cirque De Sole...........WOW. GREAT venue, great show. I assume it is called the Stranahan because of funding and philanthropy from the family/foundation. I hope I am right. Another shining star in the Toledo/Lucas County area.

I see the Stranahan name in the museum as well, and I think at the Zoo.

Toledo has a lot to offer. It looks like the Stranahan's had much to do with that.

Thanks.

The A-Hole.

GPA vs. Guts

2007-09-30T10:42:00.000-04:00

On Glass City Jungle a post stated that Lucas County and Toledo Muni prosecutors are EXCLUSIVELY the bottom of their law school glasses. Here is my response.

TPDBlue - Your speaking out of your ass, and just like you are offended by generalizations about COPS, you should know better.

“The Prosecutors in Lucas County Common Pleas Court and Toledo Municipal Court are exclusively bottom of their Law School class graduates.” First, not true. Secondly;

Law school class rank has little to do with a lawyer’s ability to interpret, apply, and argue the law, especially criminal law. Why do top class graduates get recruited by large firms, because civil, transactional, and contract law all REQUIRE massive research and writing hours. Those “top of the class” newbie lawyers won’t see a courtroom, interview a witness, or speak to a judge (let alone try a case) for YEARS.

The criminal law does not GENERALLY, have a large research component, but forces a new lawyer to do the groundwork, and actually apply the law on his or her feet. Give me a logical, common sense, dedicated, practical lawyer with some life experience and street sense over a law school valedictorian any day.

The A-Hole.

The Diaper Babies

2007-09-29T08:49:00.000-04:00

This is my RESPONSE to a post on Glass City Jungle related to Toledo courts and prosecutors.

Where to start:

I don’t know Judge Goulding, and I was practicing in another city when he first took the municipal bench.

A quick history of myself to set the context of my comments.

Occupation - Asshole Lawyer-
Resume’ - US Army officer, Cop, diaper wearing Toledo public defendner intern - Asshole lawyer.

Initially ALL FELONIES are heard in Muni court #3.Deals are made on 95% of those charges - BY COUNTY PROSECUTORS. Deals are made by county prosecutors, with the input of the arresting officers and investigating detectives, opposed by SEASONED VETERAN LAWYERS (with the help of diaper wearing interns.)

The diaper babies have years of experience, see thousands of cases, and know both sides when they make a recommendation, which is approved by the defending lawyer and the prosecutor. Chad, there are no “paying” cases.

Carty HAS cut/gutted the CITY prosecutors office; however, he has no bearing on the county prosecutors who are working the felonies heard in municipal court #3.

MOST, of the city prosecutors are neither brain dead or sloppy. Their dockets are overloaded, they have minimal resources, NO JAIL SPACE (which is regulated by federal limits and each JUDGE’S bed space allocation), and they ARE effected by the political machinations and ramblings of Carty and others.

Are many of the prosecutors inexperienced? Yes. But, that is a problem of Federal, State, and local priorities, wages, and APPRECIATION. A well intentioned, hard working, dedicated, civic minded attorney cannot afford to take a prosecution job, or remain for an extended time, unless they are young, single, and willing to pass up on better opportunities as their careers move forward.

Sure, it would be “nice” if these dedicated professionals had the altruistic inclination to remain in the prosecutor’s office for decades becoming masters of their craft and providing citizens with the “Law and Order” version of a local prosecutor. That is simply unrealistic.
Unless the prosecutor is the secondary bread winner for their family, he or she would be doing THEIR FAMILY a disservice by remaining underpaid, overworked, and underappreciated for YEARS, while passing on better jobs.

To the citizens who helped get our fine example of the public arrested. GOOD JOB. Keep it up. Public Safety IS a COMMUNITY ISSUE, which is supported by law enforcement. Replace your outside lights, walk in groups in the neighborhood at night (with cell phones), KNOW YOUR NEIGHBOR and their kids. Report, report, report, report, and document. The squeaky wheel gets the grease. Show your documentation to city counsel, the mayors office, and county officials. Elect public safety minded candidates.

FIGHT gun control at all levels. An armed citizenry is a safe citizenry; unarmed we are servants to tyranny and victims of the criminal. Notice, I DID NOT SAY ARM YOURSELF. I said fight gun control. There is a difference!

The decision to be a gun owner and the responsibility that comes with that decision is not something every citizen should or can make appropriately. BUT, in an unarmed society the criminals know that LAW ABIDING citizens do not have that choice.

The A-Hole.

Cops and Dollars

2007-09-28T10:27:00.000-04:00

FIRST - as a former police officer (my asshole roots run deep) let me say I am a big fan of cops. The issue I have today relates to TAX DOLLARS and force managment, and how they are used to keep our citizens safe.

Three days ago, in the evening time after leaving the Asshole factory, I was behind a gaggle of TPS bike patrol cops. They were rolling 6 deep, north on Madison. I understand strength in numbers, especially for bike patrol cops, but my first thought was SIX! C'mon.

Yesterday I drove south on I-75 from Michigan into Ohio. I saw two TPS cruisers parked on the Alexis Rd. ramp, monitoring traffic for speeders, likely aided by an air unit. That did not bother me. I realize the need to control traffic and promote safety through speed and other highway enforcement, and I know solid traffic enforcement leads to the discovery of lots of other CRIME. But, as I continued south I saw SIX MORE TPD UNITS, in the process of conducting traffic stops. That brought the total number of units doing noon-time traffic on I-75 southbound to 8! C'mon.

In a time of limited resources for our dedicated law enforcement professionals, with a real need for a complete presence in all parts of the city, why would Chief Navarre (under the thumb of Carty) concentrate such numbers in these two areas to such an unnecessary extent? Mismanagement? Improper prioritization? Seems like both.

Now, the highway crew was likely being funded by some Federal grant or program for highway enforcement. BUT, - and here is the key kids - Federal dollars or OUR DOLLARS too! Lets make reasoned, rational, common sense decisions about allocation of our public resources, ESPECIALLY public safety resources.

The A-Hole.

Job Security!!

2007-09-25T09:01:00.000-04:00

Today I walked into my boss's office. I said to him:

"Boss, I know your doing very well for yourself, but, I also know that overall the firm has been loosing money, and although we put out a great service and product to our clients, the PERCEPTION is that the other firms are doing it better."

"That being said, I would like your guarantee that regardless of overall firm profits I won't lose my job, my health care will remain the best in the country, and my wage -which greatly surpasses the national average and my skill set- will steadily increase on a known scale." He smirked.

"Oh and one more thing, I also need you to ensure that my dad (who retired from the firm 25 years ago and is the main reason I got this job) will still get his very lucrative retirement package till death. If you can't promise me these simple, all American things I worked so hard for, I'm gonna have to strike!" He smirked again, showed me a pile of applications from young, hard-working, new AassHole lawyers, and told me I had till 10:am to clean out my office.

If anyone knows someone, GM and the UAW included, looking for an A-Hole Lawyer willing to work for less than scale, please direct them to my blog.

The A-Hole.

YES! It is about OIL!

2007-09-21T15:50:00.000-04:00

I know the topic is a bit stale, after all Greenspan admitted this early in the week. But, finally someone says it LOUD and should be saying it PROUD.

When people who try and attack the president, republicans, and myself about the war by saying "It's all about oil." I agree with them, usually to their disbelief. No blood for oil! Bullcrap -- we must be willing to fight and spill blood for oil.

This is a national security, democracy sustaining, economic security issue; and going to war in the middle east over oil is not only proper, but necessary.

Like it or not (your beliefs on global warming aside) we live in a carbon fuel based society and economy, nationwide and world wide. Commerce, transportation, food production and defense are all dependant on fossil fuels, I.E. oil.

If the largest oil reserves in the world were controlled by an anti-democracy, anti-west, anti-capitalism, ANTI-U.S. dictator, such a tyrant would have to power to cripple the U.S. economy, and DAY TO DAY ACTIVITIES. Because we have not developed domestic sources, the very real possibility exists that an enemy controlling the middle east could stop life in America cold. No trucks moving goods, planes moving people or products, cars stopped, power plants stopped, lawn mowers and JET FIGHTERS idle.

Because of the liberal policies of the 80's and 90's restricting domestic production, limiting the construction of nuclear plants, stifling refinery construction, and limiting domestic exploration, we are beholden to the powers that be in the middle east.

Sadam was a valid threat to our national security strictly based on this issue, and his demonstrated desire to expand his grip on the gulf. Iran, Syria, Al Qaeda, and the terrorists they support constitute the same valid threat. We can, should, and must continue to fight for democracy in and friendly control of the Middle East.

Otherwise, we will be starved out of existence and forced to succumb to the desires of Muslim extremists who’s proudly stated goal is our exterminations, and they won't have to fire a single bullet or missiles to do it. If we embrace the NO WAR FOR OIL naive perspective, our future is sealed by the turning of a spigot. A very large, very real, MIDDLE EAST OIL SPIGGOT.

The A-Hole

$21.00 Welfare Challenge

2007-09-19T12:54:00.000-04:00

This is a copy of my RESPONSE, to some COMMENTS to my posting about the Welfare Challenge so publicized this week, on Glasscityjungle.

Its official, I love blogging and glasscityjungle.

LisaRenee - Thoughtful and insightful as always, we can wrestle with the fundamental belief system at length.

Liz -- GREAT response for the most part. See it is possible to respectfully disagree, debate, and banter about FACTS. I challenge many of your facts and assertions, but still GREAT COMMENT.

My screenname is ironic, sarcastic, and true to the stereotype of my profession. My post intentionally picked unhealthy McD's as an illustrative example which some seemed to miss, must not have watched "Fast Food Nation" or simply did not care to comment on.

"Family living on minimum wage." Liz said.

Entry level jobs are not meant to and should not be perceived as designed to support a family. Unfortunately, entry level jobs are now described as "minimum wage" jobs. Toledo takes it further to require a "living wage" be paid for positions that largely are filled by unskilled, uneducated workers. Thus forcing up costs for employers, squeezing out young, dedicated, hard working youth who traditionally took those jobs and were willing to learn a trade or skill at those jobs.

Toledo living wage, $10.57 an hour. 10.57 X 40 hours X 4 weeks = $1691.20

Ohio minimum wage - $6.85 X 40 X 4 = $1096.00.
Michigan minimum wage - 7.40 X 40 X 4 = $1184.00

So one person, working one full time job, and one half time job, can earn $2000 a month. And, in Ohio, would qualify for many public assistance programs. Ohio recently increased its child health care minimum requirements to twice the federal poverty standards, making the children in a family of 4, who's parents make more the $60,000 a year, eligible for Ohio's child medicaid.

All of this ignores the pure political grandstanding nature of the $21.00 challenge.

Thanks for reading...keep on blogging.

The A-Hole.

theassholelawyer.blogspot.com

Working Hard for the Readers......all one of them!

2007-09-18T16:17:00.000-04:00

This is a test to figure out how to ad a link to my blog text.

So please visit The Onion as a trial run.

I am trying to learn how to label them without just putting in the URL, please be patient I am computer challenged, web handicapable, technotarded.

Any help would be appreciated.

The A-Hole.

"The Individual Mandate"

2007-09-17T08:36:00.000-04:00

They are not even trying to hide it anymore. Why? Because the left knows that the public is completely unaware of the meaning of freedom and liberty and have been brain washed with years of entitlement mentality programming, to the point that MANDATORY government regulation is seen as a good thing.

The "individual mandate" was announced as part of Hillary Clinton's plan for socialized national health care. Her plan is not to let the free market and capitalism drive down the costs of health care, and not to let the individual citizen save for, provide, and determine their own health care needs; her solution is REQUIRE everyone to have it. The strong arm of Uncle Sam oppressing your liberty............but don't worry, its for your own good!

"The centerpiece of Clinton's plan is the so-called "individual mandate," requiring everyone to have health insurance — just as most states require drivers to purchase auto insurance. Rival John Edwards has also offered a plan that includes an individual mandate, while the proposal outlined by Barack Obama does not."

John Edwards' plan includes mandatory yearly physicals, and don't think for a second that your personal medical records will remain private when your going to a government mandated doctor appointment.

The theory that mandatory coverage and mandatory preventative care will reduce costs thus paying for the increased federal spending required to provide national health care is a fallacy. Want to reduce the cost of health care?..........stop providing it free to everyone who is uninsured, illegal, and not facing an immediate acute life threatening condition. Inject capitalism into health care outside of the trade off between insurance premium costs, co-pays, and negotiated payments by health plans.

John Stossel's recent program on health care featured a woman, who was uninsured because of pre-existing cancer. He commented that she "only goes to the doctor when she really needs to." WHATS WRONG WITH THAT? Shouldn't everyone only go to the doctor when they need to. Because we only pay co-pays, and reduced drug prices, we 1) don't know the real price of health care and don't pay it; and 2) go to the doctor more than is necessary, because we don't bear the costs individually.

The woman on the program was uninsured because she VOLUNTARILY left her job (which had full benefits) to pursue a career as a private real estate broker. HER CHOICE. Yes, its unfortunate that after she made that choice she was diagnosed with cancer, but that is not a reason to force me, or any other citizen, to pay for her care.

"That is awfully cold and uncaring of you A-Hole!" You might say. "What if your family member had cancer and couldn't get care?" Well, I would help them. If that was not enough, they could seek help from other charitable PRIVATE organizations, if that was not enough they might die. Sad? Yes. Heartbreaking? Yes. A reason to force complete strangers (American citizens) to pay for my family member's care because we cannot? NO. Remember, the government has no money of its own. The government does not earn any money by producing any products or services for profit. The government's money is YOUR MONEY. You should choose how to spend it, how to provide charity with it, or provide YOUR OWN INSURANCE.

The A-Hole.

p.s. The A-Hole is not callous, was not born with a silver spoon in his mouth, and is not speaking without personal experience in this area. The A-Hole has family with cancer, has lived uninsured by choice and had to pay private insurance as well. The A-Hole would love to strike out on his own and run a small office with his name on the door. He CHOOSES not to, largely because of the benefit of health care provided by working in his dark, demoralizing, oppressive cubical that is owned, controlled, and ruled by an evil capitalist law firm.

Demonizing Big Profits -

2007-09-16T12:25:00.000-04:00

This was my response to a comment to one of my earlier posts. Keep Em Coming.

Thanks for your comment Tom. I appreciate all views, especially intelligent, respectful debate.

My first thought when reading your comment is related to the profit of parent companies as the explanation for why benefits, salaries, etc. should be increased or as more common OVER TAXED.

A company's sole purpose is to raise money. Money for its owners, shareholders, employees, and investors. We all go to work each day to make a profit off our labor and increase our wealth.

Modern liberal politics has demonized the successful business because it is an easy, gut reaction, emotion stirring way to justify their socialism agenda. A company's profit, or the fact that "they can afford it," has no relation to the value of one individuals work, a proper wage and benefit package for that work, and/or earned merit increases. But profit totals (rarely profit margin) are used to justify mandatory higher taxes, higher wages, or forced concessions in bargaining.

The prime example recently is the much published and demonized "Big Oil Profits." Hillary Clinton in fact actually said she would like to TAKE, TAKE, those profits and distribute it to whom she feels deserves it more (IE. welfare, national health care, taxes).

Oil companies spend BILLIONS to find oil, refine it, and provide it in the marketplace to those who need it. Exxon spend 394 Billion dollars in 2005 to earn their record 36 billion dollar profit. The operated on approximately an 8% profit margin. 8%. But the big number gets the news and attacks, not the investment required or the moderate profit margin.

Oil companies employ hundreds of thousands of people, pay billions in taxes, and are the foundational stocks for MOST retirement, pension, and investment portfolios. I am willing to bet that most if not EVERY union pension/retirement plan is invested in energy stocks.

Therefore, if Oil companies voluntarily cut their profits for good will, charity, socialistic ideals, or altruism, they would be cutting the pensions, paychecks and futures of every worker, shareholder, pension plan and good ole Uncle Sam. The presidents and executive boards of those companies would be rightfully fired, and many of their biggest critics would be screaming about the reduction in their personal retirement accounts.

A Company's profit total is not a valid justification for demonizing it.

Thanks for reading my blog and commenting.

The A-Hole.

ps..check your retirement portfolio.

Strippers and Touching and Children------OH MY!

2007-09-14T15:08:00.000-04:00

My letter on SB16 - The Community Defense Act - to Co-sponsor, Senator Amstutz.

Senator Amstutz:

I am a conservative republican father of two in the Toledo area. I have been reading recently about SB 16 and its proposed restrictions on adult businesses, specifically "strip clubs."

I also recently read that you support, and in fact co-sponsored the bill to "protect Ohio families."

My sincere question to you is, How does SB16 protect families?

Before answering please understand, I am neither a patron or other financial supporter of strip bars or "adult entertainment businesses." But, I am a small government minded, local rule leaning, largely libertarian belief based republican, who believes that unnecessary and unfettered Federal, State or Local control of private business is at its core counterproductive, and largely applied in an unconstitutional manner.

Secondly, I am a former police officer and current attorney. [read - AssholeLawyer] At present, adult entertainment establishments concentrate their patrons in zoning controlled areas, keep them OFF the streets and playgrounds (anticipating your arguments for the bill) and allow governments -including their police forces- to regulate this behavior at specific controlled locations.

Closing adult entertainment establishments at midnight, or alcohol based businesses at 2am, will simply force said patrons onto the streets. Unless strip clubs exist that operate at or near schools and playgrounds during daylight hours, how will late night and early morning closings "protect" any kids or families?

I recognize this proposed legislation as "feel good" on the surface, and very tough to vote against given the sexual nature of the subject matter. But, as a republican, it is your duty to uphold the tenants of our party and our constitution. This bill is the overreaching regulation of private business and individual liberty for no real, tangible effect.

As importantly, this regulation is yet another anti-business, anti-free market step taken by Ohio which will support the mass retreat from our state, and further indicates to businesses who may consider Ohio as a potential investment location, that their future is brighter elsewhere.

I await your response. Thank you for your service to our state.

The A-Hole

Admit Progress..............Neutralize Petraeus before his report......Ignore progress

2007-09-11T11:17:00.000-04:00

Pick a position and stick with it...........or at least present contradictory propaganda in some orderly fashion.

First some liberal newsies admit progress in Iraq....

The Dems concede but shadow the information by stating that no political gains have been made. Before the cry was that you cant have political gain without military success and security, then once some success is achieved the cry changes to .....you can't have military success without political gains......................

The Dems then spend a week or more launching preemptive strikes against the Petraeus report, BEFORE HE SAYS A SINGLE WORD.................to polarize support from their sheeple followers who believe everything they see on network news and CNN.

And lastly, in concert the national media and Dems refuse to report or admit successes in Iraq including this recent development

Barham Salih, deputy prime minister in charge of the economy, told reporters in Washington by video link from Baghdad that the revenue sharing dispute had been settled during three days of intense talks at a “retreat” last week.
“That contentious issue is out,” he said. The cabinet hopes to present the draft law to parliament by the end of the year, he added.

Peace through strength...........success LONG TERM....and defense of our freedoms on a battlefield outside of our borders are the key to our security.

The A-Hole

New Orleans, Newark, Toledo

2007-09-07T15:14:00.000-04:00

Shining examples of what single party rule and a long history of governance by democrats can give.

And yet, Toledo city counsel recently improperly removed its republican city counsel president to unify the A&B team democrats and prepare for the upcoming general election in 08.

When will the citizens of Toledo realize that the ideals and beliefs of their parents' democrats are not shared by the modern democratic party, that unions (while a necessary part of labor reform in the 1920's) are a cause of the economic problems of our community currently, and that continuing to do the same things over and over politically and expecting a different result is the definition of CRAZY.

Have a good weekend.

The A-hole.

Jerry Lewis...............C'mon its a WORD!

2007-09-05T09:22:00.000-04:00

Fag, Fag, Fag, Fag, Fag, Fag, Fag, Faggot, Faggot, Faggot, Faggot.

Anyone in pain over reading this? Anyone offended............fine, don't read on, don't visit my page again......and continue to go through the world believing that you have a RIGHT not to be offended and the right to be oversensitive.

But don't get upset that according to John Edwards if he is President, everyone WILL HAVE TO GO TO THE DR. to reduce health costs via preventative care. Big brother mandates your yearly "check up!!" Don't worry it will be FREE!

The A-Hole.

Hiccup....ocracy!!

2007-08-31T07:53:00.000-04:00

Gonzales lied under oath!!..........................................................(Clinton)

The Senator from Idaho MAY have been looking for a good time with men!.........................(Frank)

Karl Rove orchestrated the Republican party's campaigns and he is a rich white guy!.............(Soros)

Fox news is a patsy and tool for the conservative religious right!.....................................(ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN, NPR, Dan Rather)

We need change in American politics!.....................(Kenne...........hiccup...........dy, Clinton, Byrd, Schumer)

The Republican Right is the most corrupt party in our nations history!........................(Travelgate, cash in the freezer, sweetheart Nevada land deals, JACK ABRAMOV, pardons for terrorists, drug dealers, and family members)

happy Labor Day.............almost got your taxes paid by September.

The A-Hole.

The Colors of Blog

2007-08-29T16:41:00.001-04:00

What Color should I post in?

How can I strive not to OFFEND any of my readers?

I must of course consider the sensibilities of EVERY citizen surfing the web who may stray onto my page and be subject to my assertions.

Guess I will stay with Red...............blood red...........Good Ole American Red........with some White and Blue thrown in for good measure.

Sorry if I offend anyone.

The A-Hole Lawyer

Conception

2007-08-28T13:42:00.000-04:00

No..............not birth control, or abortion, or other pseudo fundamental rights........BLOG Conception.

Does a blog begin to exist when it is only a twinkle in the author's mind....or

When the blood begins to flow to the organ of imagination.....or

When fully erect the words spill onto the web page??

I gotta get a sock or a towel......