In February of this year, Massillon's former 24 year elected Democratic mayor, and 38 year serving Democratic elected official, Frank Cicchinelli, was a Democrat, dutifully circulating Democratic nominating petitions for Democratic at large councilman Paul Manson. "Under penalty of election falsification," Cicchinelli affirmed he was "a member of the Democratic party."
That was February.
In April, Frank Cicchinelli completed an extraordinary political conversion, "cutting the cord" from the Democratic Party, and becoming an 'Independent.'
And since he was now 'Independent,' coincidentally, he decided it was a good time to run for mayor as an 'Independent.'
Now, as we all know, this political conversion was genuine. Frank Cicchinelli was obviously blinded by the white, hot light of 'Independence' on the road to the Stark County Board of Elections to collect his petition so he could return to the mayor's office he occupied for a quarter century as a Democrat.
The naysayers among us would argue that he converted merely for political opportunity, that he became an 'Independent' merely so he could run for mayor in the November election, thereby avoiding a Democratic primary against the woman who kicked his behind in the Democratic primary just four years before.
The naysayers would argue that Frank Cicchinelli left Massillon in such a mess, that there was "no way in Hell,' he could hope to convince over 50% of Massillon's voters to return him to power.
But in a four way race, now a three way race, as the other Independent candidate couldn't muster enough signatures on his petition to reach the ballot, Cicchinelli could cobble together a little more than a third of the votes in November, and that could return him to where he belongs, as Massillon's Supreme Leader.
His intent is critical to whether or not he gets to run.
If his conversion is proven to be genuine, he can legally run for mayor.
If it is determined his conversion is not genuine, that he is an 'Independent' in Democratic clothing, the law will stop his running.
But of course, we believe our faithful readers are fully convinced by Frank Cicchinelli's word and deed that his conversion is genuine, that his beliefs are true, and that he is now 'Independent.'
And this 'Independence' should be celebrated.
On July 3rd, at Paul Brown Tiger Stadium, the City of Massillon will be celebrating the "City of Champions Independence Day Celebration" with live music, food, and of course fireworks!
It should be an extraordinary time.
And we believe an extraordinary event requires an extraordinary grand marshal.
We therefore nominate the newly minted 'Independent' Frank Cicchinelli to serve as grand marshal of the "Independence Day Celebration."
Just as the United States of America "cut the cord" from England back in 1776, Frank Cicchinelli "cut the cord" from the Democratic Party way back in April.
And we should celebrate.
Because if Frank Cicchinelli isn't truly 'Independent,' then he doesn't get to run for mayor.
And what a terrible shame that would be!
Thursday, June 25, 2015
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
Under Penalty of Election Falsification
Former Democratic 24 year mayor, and now 'Independent' candidate, Frank Cicchinelli was well known for having an iron grip on Massillon's city council when he was mayor.
His faithful rubber stamps would support everything he proposed, from golf course boondoggles, to sweetheart hotel deals.
One of his most faithful rubber stamps was current Council Majority Leader Paul Manson.
It is well known that Manson faithfully pines for Cicchinelli's return to office. Manson even circulated Cicchinelli's 'Independent' Petition for Candidate, helping to pave the way for Cicchinelli to appear on the ballot.
And one good turn deserves another.
As a few months earlier, Frank Cicchinelli circulated a Petition for Candidate for his good friend and faithful supporter, Paul Manson.
If one is going to return to the mayor's office, one needs rubber stamps on city council.
When Frank Cicchinelli was circulating the Manson petition, just this year, in February, he must have forgot to read what he signed.
Let us jog his memory;
"I Francis H. Cicchinelli, Jr., declare under penalty of election falsification that I reside at the address appearing below my signature; that I am a member of the Democratic Party; "
That, "I am a member of the Democratic Party."
In February.
Of this year.
"under penalty of election falsification"
So much for "cutting the cord" four years ago...
His faithful rubber stamps would support everything he proposed, from golf course boondoggles, to sweetheart hotel deals.
One of his most faithful rubber stamps was current Council Majority Leader Paul Manson.
It is well known that Manson faithfully pines for Cicchinelli's return to office. Manson even circulated Cicchinelli's 'Independent' Petition for Candidate, helping to pave the way for Cicchinelli to appear on the ballot.
And one good turn deserves another.
As a few months earlier, Frank Cicchinelli circulated a Petition for Candidate for his good friend and faithful supporter, Paul Manson.
If one is going to return to the mayor's office, one needs rubber stamps on city council.
When Frank Cicchinelli was circulating the Manson petition, just this year, in February, he must have forgot to read what he signed.
Let us jog his memory;
"I Francis H. Cicchinelli, Jr., declare under penalty of election falsification that I reside at the address appearing below my signature; that I am a member of the Democratic Party; "
That, "I am a member of the Democratic Party."
In February.
Of this year.
"under penalty of election falsification"
So much for "cutting the cord" four years ago...
Thursday, June 18, 2015
When Was the Cord Cut?
Last week, the gospel according to Frank Cicchinelli's lawyer was that Frank Cicchinelli cut the umbilical cord to the Democratic Party four years ago.
"Being four years outside of public office and not being active in recent Democratic Party clubs or events should help refute any challenge to Cicchinelli’s bid as an independent, Conley said. “I’d say he’s successfully cut the umbilical cord,” Conley said."
(Frank Cicchinelli's attorney, Craig Conley, The Independent, June 9, 2015)
That was last week.
This week, the umbilical cord was cut a little more recently.
Apparently it wasn't four years ago.
It was this spring.
"Cicchinelli referred all inquiries regarding the protest to his attorney, Craig T. Conley, who said he’s not “legally concerned” about the protest filing against his client. The former mayor has had no ties to the Democratic Party since filing an independent candidate petition earlier this spring, and people have a right to disaffiliate from a political party, Conley added. “Nothing has been pointed out (as far as Democratic affiliations) after Cicchinelli filed his petition,” Conley said."
(The Independent, June 17, 2015)
"spring" appears to be a little more recent than "four years" ago.
It would appear that Team Cicchinelli is now conceding that our Extraordinary 'Independent' Once & Future Mayor for Life was indeed a Democrat as he was busily signing Democratic Petitions for Candidates just a few months ago.
Petitions which state;
"We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party, hereby certify..."
So things have indeed changed for Team Cicchinelli.
He was a Democrat, until spring, and then he was blinded by the white, hot light of 'Independence.'
Although, the change from "four years" to "spring." is quite a bit of shrinkage in the 'Independent' timeline.
At this rate, by this time next week, Cicchinelli will once more be a Democrat.
"Being four years outside of public office and not being active in recent Democratic Party clubs or events should help refute any challenge to Cicchinelli’s bid as an independent, Conley said. “I’d say he’s successfully cut the umbilical cord,” Conley said."
(Frank Cicchinelli's attorney, Craig Conley, The Independent, June 9, 2015)
That was last week.
This week, the umbilical cord was cut a little more recently.
Apparently it wasn't four years ago.
It was this spring.
"Cicchinelli referred all inquiries regarding the protest to his attorney, Craig T. Conley, who said he’s not “legally concerned” about the protest filing against his client. The former mayor has had no ties to the Democratic Party since filing an independent candidate petition earlier this spring, and people have a right to disaffiliate from a political party, Conley added. “Nothing has been pointed out (as far as Democratic affiliations) after Cicchinelli filed his petition,” Conley said."
(The Independent, June 17, 2015)
"spring" appears to be a little more recent than "four years" ago.
It would appear that Team Cicchinelli is now conceding that our Extraordinary 'Independent' Once & Future Mayor for Life was indeed a Democrat as he was busily signing Democratic Petitions for Candidates just a few months ago.
Petitions which state;
"We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party, hereby certify..."
So things have indeed changed for Team Cicchinelli.
He was a Democrat, until spring, and then he was blinded by the white, hot light of 'Independence.'
Although, the change from "four years" to "spring." is quite a bit of shrinkage in the 'Independent' timeline.
At this rate, by this time next week, Cicchinelli will once more be a Democrat.
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Independence Day
An official protest has been filed against Frank Cicchinelli's quest to return to the mayor's office he once occupied for a quarter century.
Attorney Steve Okey has filed the objection.
According to today's Independent, “Flip-flopping is not a good-faith indicator of being a good independent,” Okey said. “He (Cicchinelli) signed a nominating petition for Ress, who ran as a Democrat. Running now as an independent should invalidate his (own) petition.”
And we are just shocked, shocked we say that someone would question the sincerity (& legality) of our former mayor's 'Independence.'
Just because he served as an elected Massillon Democratic official for a mere 38 years.
Just because he kept voting in Democratic primary after Democratic primary, year after year.
Just because he kept signing Democratic petitions for candidate, including one for the very office he is now running for as an 'Independent.'
Even though signers of those petitions are attesting to the fact that they are Democrats.
Just because he contributed cash to the Western Stark Co. Democratic Club.
How could anyone possibly argue that he is a Democrat?
He 'cut the cord.'
He freed himself from the shackles of the Democratic Party.
And he was blinded by the white, hot light of 'Independence.'
It was an extraordinary conversion!
We urge the Stark County Board of Elections to reject logic, common sense, and Frank Cicchinelli's own pattern of serial Democraticness, and see that he gets to run for mayor as the 'Independent' we all know him to be.
Attorney Steve Okey has filed the objection.
According to today's Independent, “Flip-flopping is not a good-faith indicator of being a good independent,” Okey said. “He (Cicchinelli) signed a nominating petition for Ress, who ran as a Democrat. Running now as an independent should invalidate his (own) petition.”
And we are just shocked, shocked we say that someone would question the sincerity (& legality) of our former mayor's 'Independence.'
Just because he served as an elected Massillon Democratic official for a mere 38 years.
Just because he kept voting in Democratic primary after Democratic primary, year after year.
Just because he kept signing Democratic petitions for candidate, including one for the very office he is now running for as an 'Independent.'
Even though signers of those petitions are attesting to the fact that they are Democrats.
Just because he contributed cash to the Western Stark Co. Democratic Club.
How could anyone possibly argue that he is a Democrat?
He 'cut the cord.'
He freed himself from the shackles of the Democratic Party.
And he was blinded by the white, hot light of 'Independence.'
It was an extraordinary conversion!
We urge the Stark County Board of Elections to reject logic, common sense, and Frank Cicchinelli's own pattern of serial Democraticness, and see that he gets to run for mayor as the 'Independent' we all know him to be.
Monday, June 15, 2015
Fore!
After Massillon's Ward 6 councilman Ed Lewis, and at large councilwoman Michelle Del Rio Keller got done playing musical chairs with their council seats, Ed Lewis had a free ride to re-election as a councilman at large, while Del Rio Keller had to battle it out in the Democratic primary against former Ed Lewis nemesis, Linda Litman.
Michelle Del Rio Keller then proceeded to lose her race to Litman by 6 votes.
6 votes.
And word around town is that Michelle ain't happy.
While she should be unhappy with Ed Lewis, for having conned her into switching council races, or unhappy with herself, for being conned, she was ultimately unhappy with a member of the Parks Board who supported Litman over her.
And why would this Parks Board member oppose Del Rio Keller, who herself was a former Parks Board member, appointed by none other than the Extraordinary One himself, King Francis the 'Independent,' once and future ruler of the City of Champions?
Because she was "all about the golf course," and it was believed she wanted to close, or possibly sell some of Massillon's parks, because the debt ridden Legends of Massillon Golf Course was financially crushing the parks department.
And as a member of Team Cicchinelli, one has to support the golf course, or the Cicchinelli led "Legends of Massillon" political party, the political movement comprised of homeowners who live around the Legends golf course, ginned up by the Cicchinellis, would be unhappy.
There was one problem for Del Rio Keller's alleged support of the golf course.
The golf course isn't in ward 6, where she was campaigning to be elected as a ward council member.
And Ward 6, being primarily a working class area, probably didn't have a lot of voters who thought Massillon should close parks to keep the golf course open.
The Litman campaign accused Del Rio Keller of wanting to close Wampler Park.
Del Rio Keller cried foul, and if one believes the rumors around town, contemplated legal action against Litman.
So did Del Rio Keller want to close Wampler park?
Decide for yourself.
One of our faithful readers sent us the audio clip from the September Parks Board Meeting, claiming that the audio would indicate Del Rio Keller would close Wampler Park.
And as Wampler Park was in Ward 6, closing the local park probably wasn't her best political move.
But at least Michelle Del Rio Keller protected what is critically important to Massillon voters.
The golf course.
Fore!
Michelle Del Rio Keller then proceeded to lose her race to Litman by 6 votes.
6 votes.
And word around town is that Michelle ain't happy.
While she should be unhappy with Ed Lewis, for having conned her into switching council races, or unhappy with herself, for being conned, she was ultimately unhappy with a member of the Parks Board who supported Litman over her.
And why would this Parks Board member oppose Del Rio Keller, who herself was a former Parks Board member, appointed by none other than the Extraordinary One himself, King Francis the 'Independent,' once and future ruler of the City of Champions?
Because she was "all about the golf course," and it was believed she wanted to close, or possibly sell some of Massillon's parks, because the debt ridden Legends of Massillon Golf Course was financially crushing the parks department.
And as a member of Team Cicchinelli, one has to support the golf course, or the Cicchinelli led "Legends of Massillon" political party, the political movement comprised of homeowners who live around the Legends golf course, ginned up by the Cicchinellis, would be unhappy.
There was one problem for Del Rio Keller's alleged support of the golf course.
The golf course isn't in ward 6, where she was campaigning to be elected as a ward council member.
And Ward 6, being primarily a working class area, probably didn't have a lot of voters who thought Massillon should close parks to keep the golf course open.
The Litman campaign accused Del Rio Keller of wanting to close Wampler Park.
Del Rio Keller cried foul, and if one believes the rumors around town, contemplated legal action against Litman.
So did Del Rio Keller want to close Wampler park?
Decide for yourself.
One of our faithful readers sent us the audio clip from the September Parks Board Meeting, claiming that the audio would indicate Del Rio Keller would close Wampler Park.
And as Wampler Park was in Ward 6, closing the local park probably wasn't her best political move.
But at least Michelle Del Rio Keller protected what is critically important to Massillon voters.
The golf course.
Fore!
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
The Cord is Cut
"Being four years outside of public office and not being
active in recent Democratic Party clubs or events should help refute any
challenge to Cicchinelli’s bid as an independent, Conley said. “I’d say he’s successfully cut the umbilical cord,” Conley said."
(Frank Cicchinelli's attorney, Craig Conley, The Independent, June 9, 2015)
"Being four years outside of public office and not being active in recent Democratic Party clubs or events..."
"Four years" and "not being active" are the words that have come down from the pulpit to to the pew, that Frank Cicchinelli hasn't been active in the Democratic Party, that he has seen the white, hot light of 'Independence,' and has broken free from the shackles of the Democratic Party.
"Being four years outside of public office and not being active in recent Democratic Party clubs or events ..."
This statement appears to be definitive.
And unfortunately for Team Cicchinelli, it also appears to be false.
One of our faithful readers has shared with us an "Ohio Campaign Finance Report" for the Western Stark Co. Democratic Club.
We emphasize the words "Democratic Club."
According to the report filed by Western Stark Co. Democratic Club Treasurer John Kurtzman, Frank Cicchinelli donated to the "Democratic Club" late last year.
The Democratic Club held an event on September 20, 2014.
And our 'Independent' candidate for mayor, a man, and let us quote his lawyer, "Being four years outside of public office and not being active in recent Democratic Party clubs or events..." gave a contribution.
Cicchinelli contributed cash to the Western Stark Co. Democratic Club.
For an event held on September 20, 2014.
Certainly within the four year window he was supposedly not active.
Except that he was active.
Financially active.
According to the report filed by Democratic Club Treasurer John Kurtzman.
And who is John Kurtzman?
He is the Chief Counsel to Democratic Stark County Prosecutor, John D. Ferrero.
A loyal team member to 'Independent' mayoral candidate Frank Cicchinelli.
Treasurer of the Western Stark Co. Democratic Club.
And a signer to Frank Cicchinelli's 'Independent' Nominating Petition.
John Kurtzman signed the Nominating Petition for 'Independent' mayoral candidate Frank Cicchinelli which was circulated by another prominent Democratic functionary.
John Kurtzman signed the Nominating Petition for 'Independent' mayoral candidate Frank Cicchinelli which, coincidentally, was circulated by a member of the Democratic Central Committee.
None other than Joy Cicchinelli, the wife of the 'Independent' Frank Cicchinelli.
Yes, we can clearly see how the cord has been cut.
How could we miss it?
(Frank Cicchinelli's attorney, Craig Conley, The Independent, June 9, 2015)
"Being four years outside of public office and not being active in recent Democratic Party clubs or events..."
"Four years" and "not being active" are the words that have come down from the pulpit to to the pew, that Frank Cicchinelli hasn't been active in the Democratic Party, that he has seen the white, hot light of 'Independence,' and has broken free from the shackles of the Democratic Party.
"Being four years outside of public office and not being active in recent Democratic Party clubs or events ..."
This statement appears to be definitive.
And unfortunately for Team Cicchinelli, it also appears to be false.
One of our faithful readers has shared with us an "Ohio Campaign Finance Report" for the Western Stark Co. Democratic Club.
We emphasize the words "Democratic Club."
According to the report filed by Western Stark Co. Democratic Club Treasurer John Kurtzman, Frank Cicchinelli donated to the "Democratic Club" late last year.
The Democratic Club held an event on September 20, 2014.
And our 'Independent' candidate for mayor, a man, and let us quote his lawyer, "Being four years outside of public office and not being active in recent Democratic Party clubs or events..." gave a contribution.
Cicchinelli contributed cash to the Western Stark Co. Democratic Club.
For an event held on September 20, 2014.
Certainly within the four year window he was supposedly not active.
Except that he was active.
Financially active.
According to the report filed by Democratic Club Treasurer John Kurtzman.
And who is John Kurtzman?
He is the Chief Counsel to Democratic Stark County Prosecutor, John D. Ferrero.
A loyal team member to 'Independent' mayoral candidate Frank Cicchinelli.
Treasurer of the Western Stark Co. Democratic Club.
And a signer to Frank Cicchinelli's 'Independent' Nominating Petition.
John Kurtzman signed the Nominating Petition for 'Independent' mayoral candidate Frank Cicchinelli which was circulated by another prominent Democratic functionary.
John Kurtzman signed the Nominating Petition for 'Independent' mayoral candidate Frank Cicchinelli which, coincidentally, was circulated by a member of the Democratic Central Committee.
None other than Joy Cicchinelli, the wife of the 'Independent' Frank Cicchinelli.
Yes, we can clearly see how the cord has been cut.
How could we miss it?
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Cutting the Cord
Massillon's former mayor, the newly 'Independent' Frank Cicchinelli has a problem with Democrats.
He doesn't want the two Democratic members of the Stark County Board of Elections to participate in deciding whether, or not Frank Cicchinelli is a Democrat, and not an 'Independent' as he would have us believe.
What?
Things are definitely getting stranger and stranger in the City of Champions.
Cicchinelli, who was a 38 year elected Democratic officeholder in Massillon, having won election 13 times as a Democrat, doesn't want Democrats deciding whether, or not, he is truly an 'Independent.'
From today's Independent - "Cicchinelli claims through his attorney, Craig T. Conley, the two should not be involved in the proceeding due to their membership roles on the Stark County Democratic Executive Committee with incumbent city Mayor Kathy Catazaro-Perry, who is seeking re-election as a party candidate."
Maybe Kathy Catazaro-Perry should ask that Frank Cicchinelli not be allowed to run as an Independent candidate as his wife, Joy Cicchinelli, is a member of the Central Committee of the Democratic Party "with incumbent city Mayor Kathy Catazaro-Perry, who is seeking re-election as a party candidate."
Hey, it's his logic!
Cicchinelli's attorney also stated, in relation to Cicchinelli's quest for 'Independence,' and his shedding the yoke of the Democratic Party, “I’d say he’s successfully cut the umbilical cord,” Conley said (The Independent, June 9, 2015).
"Cut the umbilical cord?"
Except for the fact he kept signing Democratic petitions for candidate, multiple times, just this year, where he affirmed he was a Democrat.
Over and over.
You know, those documents where it states, "We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party..."
And then they state, "Signatures on this petition should be from only one county and must be written in ink. Signatures on this petition shall be of persons who are of the same political party as stated above by the candidate."
Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for J. David Ress, Democratic candidate for mayor, the office Cicchinelli is also running for.
And
Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Jill Creamer, Democratic candidate for city council in Massillon's 4th Ward.
And
Cicchinelli signed a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Paul Manson, Democratic candidate for Massillon Council at Large.
All 3 Petitions for Candidate signed in the last few months.
For Democratic candidates.
So much for cutting the cord.
He doesn't want the two Democratic members of the Stark County Board of Elections to participate in deciding whether, or not Frank Cicchinelli is a Democrat, and not an 'Independent' as he would have us believe.
What?
Things are definitely getting stranger and stranger in the City of Champions.
Cicchinelli, who was a 38 year elected Democratic officeholder in Massillon, having won election 13 times as a Democrat, doesn't want Democrats deciding whether, or not, he is truly an 'Independent.'
From today's Independent - "Cicchinelli claims through his attorney, Craig T. Conley, the two should not be involved in the proceeding due to their membership roles on the Stark County Democratic Executive Committee with incumbent city Mayor Kathy Catazaro-Perry, who is seeking re-election as a party candidate."
Maybe Kathy Catazaro-Perry should ask that Frank Cicchinelli not be allowed to run as an Independent candidate as his wife, Joy Cicchinelli, is a member of the Central Committee of the Democratic Party "with incumbent city Mayor Kathy Catazaro-Perry, who is seeking re-election as a party candidate."
Hey, it's his logic!
Cicchinelli's attorney also stated, in relation to Cicchinelli's quest for 'Independence,' and his shedding the yoke of the Democratic Party, “I’d say he’s successfully cut the umbilical cord,” Conley said (The Independent, June 9, 2015).
"Cut the umbilical cord?"
Except for the fact he kept signing Democratic petitions for candidate, multiple times, just this year, where he affirmed he was a Democrat.
Over and over.
You know, those documents where it states, "We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party..."
And then they state, "Signatures on this petition should be from only one county and must be written in ink. Signatures on this petition shall be of persons who are of the same political party as stated above by the candidate."
Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for J. David Ress, Democratic candidate for mayor, the office Cicchinelli is also running for.
And
Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Jill Creamer, Democratic candidate for city council in Massillon's 4th Ward.
And
Cicchinelli signed a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Paul Manson, Democratic candidate for Massillon Council at Large.
All 3 Petitions for Candidate signed in the last few months.
For Democratic candidates.
So much for cutting the cord.
Monday, June 8, 2015
Six Part Two
Republican Ed Lewis' burgeoning political career was in trouble.
He envisioned himself as a future mayor of the City of Champions, but a 2015 campaign against the incumbent was not in the offing.
He took a close shave in the sixth ward in 2013 from FirstMerit bank executive Linda Litman, and Litman was coming back for another run.
Lewis wanted to run for council at large, so he could cultivate a city wide base that he could utilize when he finally did run for mayor, but there were already three strong incumbents serving the city at large, and he probably wasn't going to beat any of them.
Ed Lewis needed help.
Without some serious intervention, the City of Champions could have been deprived of the enlightened wisdom and leadership of Ed Lewis.
Fortunately for Ed Lewis, Democrat at large councilwoman Michelle Del Rio Keller came to save the day.
In a bi-partisan spirit of cooperation, and behind closed doors machinations reminiscent of old school Chicago political machines, Ed Lewis cooked up a plan to save his bacon.
Lewis and Del Rio Keller would switch seats.
Del Rio Keller would give up her safe council at large seat, and run for Lewis' Ward 6 seat, and Lewis would slide into Del Rio Keller's safe council at large seat.
Word around town is that Ed Lewis begged and pleaded Del Rio Keller to switch races with him.
Word is he implored Del Rio Keller to make this switch, or his political career could come to end.
Most surprising to any reasonable observer is that Del Rio Keller agreed to the switch.
She appeared to be more worried about Ed Lewis' political future than her own.
Normally, incumbents of one political party, in this case a Democrat, don't worry about incumbents of the other party, in this case a Republican.
Del Rio Keller would now face a difficult Democratic Primary against a very serious candidate who came within a handful of votes of winning in 2013 in Ward 6.
Ed Lewis would basically get a free ride as a candidate for council at large, thereby creating a city wide base for when he does run for mayor, and avoiding a tough election.
Democrat Del Rio Keller would put her own political career in jeopardy while Republican Ed Lewis got a freebie.
What did Del Rio Keller get from this deal other than a tough campaign which she eventually lost?
By six votes.
Apparently, nothing.
Usually when someone 'cuts a deal,' they get something.
Anything.
In this case, Del Rio Keller was had.
At least the Indians who sold Manhattan island to the Dutch got $24 worth of wampum when they were swindled.
Michelle Del Rio Keller didn't get that much.
She did, however, get beat.
Ed Lewis may have gotten beaten by Linda Litman as well.
But we will never know, as he convinced Michelle Del Rio to take it on the chin instead.
Ed Lewis must be a masterful negotiator, or Del Rio Keller was just a total patsy.
A number of our faithful readers have shared with us that Del Rio Keller holds the Parks Board responsible for her loss, and that she has been on a jihad against them since her defeat
By six votes.
But the person most responsible for Michelle Del Rio Keller's loss is Michelle Del Rio Keller.
She listened to the pleas of Ed Lewis, whose negotiating skills must be so good, he can literally sell ice to Eskimos.
Maybe his plan to eventually become mayor of Massillon is to convince the incumbent to switch seats with him.
Although, we doubt his next opponent will be so easily manipulated.
Unless that opponent is Michelle Del Rio Keller.
He envisioned himself as a future mayor of the City of Champions, but a 2015 campaign against the incumbent was not in the offing.
He took a close shave in the sixth ward in 2013 from FirstMerit bank executive Linda Litman, and Litman was coming back for another run.
Lewis wanted to run for council at large, so he could cultivate a city wide base that he could utilize when he finally did run for mayor, but there were already three strong incumbents serving the city at large, and he probably wasn't going to beat any of them.
Ed Lewis needed help.
Without some serious intervention, the City of Champions could have been deprived of the enlightened wisdom and leadership of Ed Lewis.
Fortunately for Ed Lewis, Democrat at large councilwoman Michelle Del Rio Keller came to save the day.
In a bi-partisan spirit of cooperation, and behind closed doors machinations reminiscent of old school Chicago political machines, Ed Lewis cooked up a plan to save his bacon.
Lewis and Del Rio Keller would switch seats.
Del Rio Keller would give up her safe council at large seat, and run for Lewis' Ward 6 seat, and Lewis would slide into Del Rio Keller's safe council at large seat.
Word around town is that Ed Lewis begged and pleaded Del Rio Keller to switch races with him.
Word is he implored Del Rio Keller to make this switch, or his political career could come to end.
Most surprising to any reasonable observer is that Del Rio Keller agreed to the switch.
She appeared to be more worried about Ed Lewis' political future than her own.
Normally, incumbents of one political party, in this case a Democrat, don't worry about incumbents of the other party, in this case a Republican.
Del Rio Keller would now face a difficult Democratic Primary against a very serious candidate who came within a handful of votes of winning in 2013 in Ward 6.
Ed Lewis would basically get a free ride as a candidate for council at large, thereby creating a city wide base for when he does run for mayor, and avoiding a tough election.
Democrat Del Rio Keller would put her own political career in jeopardy while Republican Ed Lewis got a freebie.
What did Del Rio Keller get from this deal other than a tough campaign which she eventually lost?
By six votes.
Apparently, nothing.
Usually when someone 'cuts a deal,' they get something.
Anything.
In this case, Del Rio Keller was had.
At least the Indians who sold Manhattan island to the Dutch got $24 worth of wampum when they were swindled.
Michelle Del Rio Keller didn't get that much.
She did, however, get beat.
Ed Lewis may have gotten beaten by Linda Litman as well.
But we will never know, as he convinced Michelle Del Rio to take it on the chin instead.
Ed Lewis must be a masterful negotiator, or Del Rio Keller was just a total patsy.
A number of our faithful readers have shared with us that Del Rio Keller holds the Parks Board responsible for her loss, and that she has been on a jihad against them since her defeat
By six votes.
But the person most responsible for Michelle Del Rio Keller's loss is Michelle Del Rio Keller.
She listened to the pleas of Ed Lewis, whose negotiating skills must be so good, he can literally sell ice to Eskimos.
Maybe his plan to eventually become mayor of Massillon is to convince the incumbent to switch seats with him.
Although, we doubt his next opponent will be so easily manipulated.
Unless that opponent is Michelle Del Rio Keller.
Thursday, June 4, 2015
Six Part One
In 2011, Republican Ed Lewis was elected as Massillon's new Ward 6 member of council.
Lewis took about 54% of the vote in knocking out incumbent Dave McCune.
The biggest surprise wasn't that Lewis won, but that he didn't win with a larger share of the vote.
You see, Councilman McCune stopped going to the meetings.
And didn't much campaign for re-election.
On Massillon Review Throwback Thursday, we take a look at the attendance issues of Ed Lewis' predecessor on city council.
Absent
Within weeks of being elected to his first political office, Ed Lewis decided it was time to move onwards and upwards.
Word was spreading quickly around town that Lewis had his eyes on the mayor's office.
Ed Lewis was a man on the rise.
But before moving on up, Lewis had to defend his Ward 6 council seat.
In 2013, he faces re-election against Democrat Linda Litman, a bank executive with FirstMerit.
Lewis takes a closer than expected shave from Litman and hangs on by the skin of his teeth.
Switch 12 votes, and Litman would have been elected, and Lewis' burgeoning political career would have come to an end.
Last year, Ed Lewis once more contemplated running for mayor.
Word is, he hosted a number of campaign fundraisers to test the waters, but just didn't get the support he needed to take on incumbent mayor Kathy Catazaro-Perry.
So he would need to run for re-election to council this year.
But Democrat Linda Litman was coming back to take another shot at Lewis' Ward 6 seat.
And Lewis didn't think he could hold her off this time.
And, as an aspiring future leader of the City of Champions, he needed to expand his profile, and increase his name recognition across the whole city.
He wanted to run for a city wide office.
Unfortunately for our aspiring leader, there weren't any open city wide opportunities.
Running and being elected for council at large would certainly raise his profile, but Massillon already had 3 strong incumbent council members serving at large; Milan Chovin, Michelle Del Rio Keller, and Paul Manson.
And it was extremely unlikely he would dislodge any of them from their city wide offices.
Ed Lewis' political future hung in the balance. What would our future mayor do?
Would Massillon forever be deprived of his future leadership?
What would he do?
Run for council at large, where he would probably lose, or run for re-election to his Ward 6 seat, where he almost lost last time.
Lewis needed help, or the embers of his his budding political career would surely be extinguished.
He needed someone to take it on the chin for the team.
And fortunately for Ed Lewis, he found someone to sacrifice themselves for the greater good.
Lewis took about 54% of the vote in knocking out incumbent Dave McCune.
The biggest surprise wasn't that Lewis won, but that he didn't win with a larger share of the vote.
You see, Councilman McCune stopped going to the meetings.
And didn't much campaign for re-election.
On Massillon Review Throwback Thursday, we take a look at the attendance issues of Ed Lewis' predecessor on city council.
Absent
Within weeks of being elected to his first political office, Ed Lewis decided it was time to move onwards and upwards.
Word was spreading quickly around town that Lewis had his eyes on the mayor's office.
Ed Lewis was a man on the rise.
But before moving on up, Lewis had to defend his Ward 6 council seat.
In 2013, he faces re-election against Democrat Linda Litman, a bank executive with FirstMerit.
Lewis takes a closer than expected shave from Litman and hangs on by the skin of his teeth.
Switch 12 votes, and Litman would have been elected, and Lewis' burgeoning political career would have come to an end.
Last year, Ed Lewis once more contemplated running for mayor.
Word is, he hosted a number of campaign fundraisers to test the waters, but just didn't get the support he needed to take on incumbent mayor Kathy Catazaro-Perry.
So he would need to run for re-election to council this year.
But Democrat Linda Litman was coming back to take another shot at Lewis' Ward 6 seat.
And Lewis didn't think he could hold her off this time.
And, as an aspiring future leader of the City of Champions, he needed to expand his profile, and increase his name recognition across the whole city.
He wanted to run for a city wide office.
Unfortunately for our aspiring leader, there weren't any open city wide opportunities.
Running and being elected for council at large would certainly raise his profile, but Massillon already had 3 strong incumbent council members serving at large; Milan Chovin, Michelle Del Rio Keller, and Paul Manson.
And it was extremely unlikely he would dislodge any of them from their city wide offices.
Ed Lewis' political future hung in the balance. What would our future mayor do?
Would Massillon forever be deprived of his future leadership?
What would he do?
Run for council at large, where he would probably lose, or run for re-election to his Ward 6 seat, where he almost lost last time.
Lewis needed help, or the embers of his his budding political career would surely be extinguished.
He needed someone to take it on the chin for the team.
And fortunately for Ed Lewis, he found someone to sacrifice themselves for the greater good.
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
We are Big in Germany
The Massillon Review is pleased to have a robust readership, comprised of faithful supporters who recently have been following the 'Independent' exploits of Massillon's former 38 year Democratic office holder, the Extraordinary One, Frank Cicchinelli, as he has broken free from the yoke of the Democratic Party.
The blogger software which hosts the Review is useful in that it tracks our viewership during a given day, week, or year. Or an approximate time during the day.
And it would appear that during a few odd times every few days, our readership seems to explode to an off the chart level.
And as much as we would like to believe this is the result of our extraordinary popularity, we realize this is probably just not the case.
It would appear an over-zealous fan may be attempting to log in and join the staff.
And we understand their desire to do so, as joining the Review team is just, well, just extraordinary!
Perhaps it is one of those Russian hackers we read so much about.
Except that we can track our traffic source, and countries of origin, and sadly, no one from Russia joined us those days.
While the vast majority of our visitors are from the Good 'Ol US of A, the country providing us the second most visitors is Germany.
We are big in Germany.
Perhaps German Chancellor Angela Merkel wants to learn from the master how to hold power forever.
Merkel has only led Germany for a mere 10 years. She has a long way to go to be considered 'extraordinary.'
Or, perhaps, just like the unexplained popularity of David Hasselhoff's singing career in Germany, it's just something that defies logic.
In honor of our German friends, and in honor of our 38 year Democratic elected Massillon officeholder, Frank Cicchinelli, who is celebrating his new found 'Independence,' we bring you David Hasselhoff, singing Looking for Freedom shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall.
The East Germans were celebrating their freedom from communism, just as Frank Cicchinelli is celebrating his freedom from the Democratic party.
The blogger software which hosts the Review is useful in that it tracks our viewership during a given day, week, or year. Or an approximate time during the day.
And it would appear that during a few odd times every few days, our readership seems to explode to an off the chart level.
And as much as we would like to believe this is the result of our extraordinary popularity, we realize this is probably just not the case.
It would appear an over-zealous fan may be attempting to log in and join the staff.
And we understand their desire to do so, as joining the Review team is just, well, just extraordinary!
Perhaps it is one of those Russian hackers we read so much about.
Except that we can track our traffic source, and countries of origin, and sadly, no one from Russia joined us those days.
While the vast majority of our visitors are from the Good 'Ol US of A, the country providing us the second most visitors is Germany.
We are big in Germany.
Perhaps German Chancellor Angela Merkel wants to learn from the master how to hold power forever.
Merkel has only led Germany for a mere 10 years. She has a long way to go to be considered 'extraordinary.'
Or, perhaps, just like the unexplained popularity of David Hasselhoff's singing career in Germany, it's just something that defies logic.
In honor of our German friends, and in honor of our 38 year Democratic elected Massillon officeholder, Frank Cicchinelli, who is celebrating his new found 'Independence,' we bring you David Hasselhoff, singing Looking for Freedom shortly after the fall of the Berlin Wall.
The East Germans were celebrating their freedom from communism, just as Frank Cicchinelli is celebrating his freedom from the Democratic party.
Monday, June 1, 2015
A Long, Long Time Ago
This past Saturday, the Canton Repository published a very thorough story about the legal challenge filed against Stark County Democratic County Commissioner Tom Bernabei's 'Independent' candidacy for mayor of the City of Canton.
If you have yet to read it, we suggest it is worth a look;
Bernabei's candidacy challenged
Basically, a number of Canton City Council members, the Stark County Democratic Party, and the Ohio Democratic Party are asking the Stark County Elections Board to reject Bernabei's independent candidacy because Bernabei really isn't an independent, and may not even be a Canton resident.
Our favorite quote from the article comes from the challenge document itself -
"At best, Bernabei's candidacy is nothing more than an attempt to capitalize on a political opportunity through tactical maneuvering in order to achieve short-range political goals."
(The Canton Repository, May 30, 2015)
"political opportunity through tactical maneuvering?"
We are shocked, just shocked!
This sort of thing could never happen in Massillon!
Our former mayor, who definitely lives in the City of Champions (albeit in the Perry School District), has 'Independent' blood coursing through his veins.
He isn't doing the exact same thing Tom Bernabei is accused of doing, pretending to be an 'Independent,' while overwhelming evidence would lead most reasonable people to believe he is still a Democrat.
Oh no, not Frank Cicchinelli.
He hasn't declared his 'Independence' merely so he could avoid a Democratic primary against the women who kicked his behind just four years ago.
Nope.
Frank Cicchinelli has truly seen the light!
"In Massillon, Francis Cicchinelli, Jr., who said he lost faith in the party years ago following decades as a Democrat, also has filed a petition to run as an independent against the sitting mayor in the general election."
(The Canton Repository, May 30, 2015).
"he lost faith in the party years ago"
"years ago"
Except, and we hate to be picky here, but he kept signing those Democratic Petitions for Candidate just a few months ago, not "years ago."
You know, those pesky documents where it states, "We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party..."
And then they state, "Signatures on this petition should be from only one county and must be written in ink. Signatures on this petition shall be of persons who are of the same political party as stated above by the candidate."
Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for J. David Ress, Democratic candidate for mayor, the office Cicchinelli is also running for.
And
Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Jill Creamer, Democratic candidate for city council in Massillon's 4th Ward.
And
Cicchinelli signed a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Paul Manson, Democratic candidate for Massillon Council at Large.
All 3 Petitions for Candidate signed in the last few months.
Just this year.
Not, "years ago."
And just last year, Frank Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Petition for Candidate for his wife, Joy, so she could serve on the Central Committee... for the Democratic party.
No, what Tom Bernabei is being accused of doing is clearly different than what former 38 year Massillon Democratic officeholder Frank Cicchinelli is doing.
Frank Cicchinelli would never, "attempt to capitalize on a political opportunity through tactical maneuvering in order to achieve short-range political goals."
Absolutely not!
Frank Cicchinelli simply lost his faith "years ago."
If you have yet to read it, we suggest it is worth a look;
Bernabei's candidacy challenged
Basically, a number of Canton City Council members, the Stark County Democratic Party, and the Ohio Democratic Party are asking the Stark County Elections Board to reject Bernabei's independent candidacy because Bernabei really isn't an independent, and may not even be a Canton resident.
Our favorite quote from the article comes from the challenge document itself -
"At best, Bernabei's candidacy is nothing more than an attempt to capitalize on a political opportunity through tactical maneuvering in order to achieve short-range political goals."
(The Canton Repository, May 30, 2015)
"political opportunity through tactical maneuvering?"
We are shocked, just shocked!
This sort of thing could never happen in Massillon!
Our former mayor, who definitely lives in the City of Champions (albeit in the Perry School District), has 'Independent' blood coursing through his veins.
He isn't doing the exact same thing Tom Bernabei is accused of doing, pretending to be an 'Independent,' while overwhelming evidence would lead most reasonable people to believe he is still a Democrat.
Oh no, not Frank Cicchinelli.
He hasn't declared his 'Independence' merely so he could avoid a Democratic primary against the women who kicked his behind just four years ago.
Nope.
Frank Cicchinelli has truly seen the light!
"In Massillon, Francis Cicchinelli, Jr., who said he lost faith in the party years ago following decades as a Democrat, also has filed a petition to run as an independent against the sitting mayor in the general election."
(The Canton Repository, May 30, 2015).
"he lost faith in the party years ago"
"years ago"
Except, and we hate to be picky here, but he kept signing those Democratic Petitions for Candidate just a few months ago, not "years ago."
You know, those pesky documents where it states, "We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party..."
And then they state, "Signatures on this petition should be from only one county and must be written in ink. Signatures on this petition shall be of persons who are of the same political party as stated above by the candidate."
Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for J. David Ress, Democratic candidate for mayor, the office Cicchinelli is also running for.
And
Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Jill Creamer, Democratic candidate for city council in Massillon's 4th Ward.
And
Cicchinelli signed a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Paul Manson, Democratic candidate for Massillon Council at Large.
All 3 Petitions for Candidate signed in the last few months.
Just this year.
Not, "years ago."
And just last year, Frank Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Petition for Candidate for his wife, Joy, so she could serve on the Central Committee... for the Democratic party.
No, what Tom Bernabei is being accused of doing is clearly different than what former 38 year Massillon Democratic officeholder Frank Cicchinelli is doing.
Frank Cicchinelli would never, "attempt to capitalize on a political opportunity through tactical maneuvering in order to achieve short-range political goals."
Absolutely not!
Frank Cicchinelli simply lost his faith "years ago."
Thursday, May 28, 2015
The Long Road to 'Independence'
It has been an extraordinarily long path to 'Independence' for Massillon's once 38 year Democratic elected office holder, and six term mayor, Frank Cicchinelli.
The cynical among our readers may believe the false propaganda that Our Extraordinary Former Mayor found his 'Independence,' merely because he wanted to avoid a Democratic primary against the woman who beat him handily just four years before.
That he wanted to go straight to the November election, where if he scrounged up about 30% of the vote, he could win a four way race.
We say heresy to such outlandish beliefs!
How could his conversion to 'Independence' be anything but a sincere change of political philosophy, even though he was a serial Democratic Petition for Candidate signer just a few months before he was overtaken by the white, hot light of 'Independence.'
We believe him!
And on Throwback Thursday here at the Massillon Review, we examine the slow change of conscience that occurred over his brief dalliance with the Democratic Party.
As we have discussed, Massillon's Eternal 'Independent' Leader briefly flirted with the Democratic Party.
For a short 38 years.
But a speck of time in the context of the cosmos.
When Frank Cicchinelli first ran for Massillon City Council, in 1973, Richard Nixon was America's president.
Frank Cicchinelli held elected office, continuously as a Democrat, from 1974 through 2011.
During the presidencies of;
Richard Nixon
Gerald Ford
Jimmy Carter
Ronald Reagan
George H. Bush
Bill Clinton
George W. Bush
and Barack Obama
8 presidents came and went during Frank Cicchinelli's brief stint as a Democrat.
But as we know, he isn't a Democrat.
It was just a fad.
A passing fancy.
For he has declared his 'Independence.'
And shame on those who don't believe it was a choice made of conviction, not of convenience.
The cynical among our readers may believe the false propaganda that Our Extraordinary Former Mayor found his 'Independence,' merely because he wanted to avoid a Democratic primary against the woman who beat him handily just four years before.
That he wanted to go straight to the November election, where if he scrounged up about 30% of the vote, he could win a four way race.
We say heresy to such outlandish beliefs!
How could his conversion to 'Independence' be anything but a sincere change of political philosophy, even though he was a serial Democratic Petition for Candidate signer just a few months before he was overtaken by the white, hot light of 'Independence.'
We believe him!
And on Throwback Thursday here at the Massillon Review, we examine the slow change of conscience that occurred over his brief dalliance with the Democratic Party.
As we have discussed, Massillon's Eternal 'Independent' Leader briefly flirted with the Democratic Party.
For a short 38 years.
But a speck of time in the context of the cosmos.
When Frank Cicchinelli first ran for Massillon City Council, in 1973, Richard Nixon was America's president.
Frank Cicchinelli held elected office, continuously as a Democrat, from 1974 through 2011.
During the presidencies of;
Richard Nixon
Gerald Ford
Jimmy Carter
Ronald Reagan
George H. Bush
Bill Clinton
George W. Bush
and Barack Obama
8 presidents came and went during Frank Cicchinelli's brief stint as a Democrat.
But as we know, he isn't a Democrat.
It was just a fad.
A passing fancy.
For he has declared his 'Independence.'
And shame on those who don't believe it was a choice made of conviction, not of convenience.
Wednesday, May 27, 2015
The Joy of the Party
When one hears the term 'Central Committee,' it hearkens one back to an era of the Communist Party in the former Soviet Union. One envisions party apparatchiks marching through Red Square under the disdainful eye of the Premier, who also, like a certain former mayor, believe their job is a job for life.
Today, the term 'Central Committee' takes on a different meaning.
Each political party, both Democrat and Republican, have a 'Central Committee.'
It is the Board of Directors of the political party.
And just how does one become a member of a Central Committee?
You get elected to the Central Committee.
Like Joy Cicchinelli, wife of Massillon's Extraordinary former (and future) 'Independent' mayor, Frank Cicchinelli.
Joy Cicchinelli is a member of the Central Committee for the Democratic Party.
Just last year, Joy was elected by her neighbors in Massillon precinct 4D, the area comprising the homeowners around the Legends of Massillon Golf Course.
As has been discussed earlier, it appears the Cicchinellis have turned the homeowners around the Legends of Massillon Golf Course into a virtual political party.
And those homeowners, at least the Democratic homeowners, have chosen Joy Cicchinelli to serve on the Central Committee.
And to run for the Central Committee as a Democrat, a prospective candidate needs signatures from Democratic voters.
We all know where this is headed, don't we?
The very first signature on Joy Cicchinelli's Democratic Petition for Candidate comes from her husband, our newly 'Independent' candidate for Mayor of Massillon, Frank Cicchinelli.
Frank Cicchinelli once more affirms that he is a "member of the Democratic Party" by signing this document.
So that his wife may get elected to the Central Committee of the Democratic Party.
Joy Cicchinelli, member of the Central Committee of the Democratic Party, must not have heard the word.
That 'Independence' has been declared by her husband.
That on the road to the Stark County Board of Elections, Frank Cicchinelli was blinded by the white, hot light of 'Independence.'
No more will he be shackled by the Democratic Party any longer than the 38 years he served as an elected Democrat.
This is no stunt, engineered for political expediency, to back door his way on to the November ballot, to avoid a Democratic primary election he lost once before to "that woman."
Absolutely not!
Frank Cicchinelli has truly seen the light, mended his Democratic ways, and is clutching tightly to his new found 'Independent' convictions.
While his wife serves as a member of the Central Committee of the Democratic Party.
Today, the term 'Central Committee' takes on a different meaning.
Each political party, both Democrat and Republican, have a 'Central Committee.'
It is the Board of Directors of the political party.
And just how does one become a member of a Central Committee?
You get elected to the Central Committee.
Like Joy Cicchinelli, wife of Massillon's Extraordinary former (and future) 'Independent' mayor, Frank Cicchinelli.
Joy Cicchinelli is a member of the Central Committee for the Democratic Party.
Just last year, Joy was elected by her neighbors in Massillon precinct 4D, the area comprising the homeowners around the Legends of Massillon Golf Course.
As has been discussed earlier, it appears the Cicchinellis have turned the homeowners around the Legends of Massillon Golf Course into a virtual political party.
And those homeowners, at least the Democratic homeowners, have chosen Joy Cicchinelli to serve on the Central Committee.
And to run for the Central Committee as a Democrat, a prospective candidate needs signatures from Democratic voters.
We all know where this is headed, don't we?
The very first signature on Joy Cicchinelli's Democratic Petition for Candidate comes from her husband, our newly 'Independent' candidate for Mayor of Massillon, Frank Cicchinelli.
Frank Cicchinelli once more affirms that he is a "member of the Democratic Party" by signing this document.
So that his wife may get elected to the Central Committee of the Democratic Party.
Joy Cicchinelli, member of the Central Committee of the Democratic Party, must not have heard the word.
That 'Independence' has been declared by her husband.
That on the road to the Stark County Board of Elections, Frank Cicchinelli was blinded by the white, hot light of 'Independence.'
No more will he be shackled by the Democratic Party any longer than the 38 years he served as an elected Democrat.
This is no stunt, engineered for political expediency, to back door his way on to the November ballot, to avoid a Democratic primary election he lost once before to "that woman."
Absolutely not!
Frank Cicchinelli has truly seen the light, mended his Democratic ways, and is clutching tightly to his new found 'Independent' convictions.
While his wife serves as a member of the Central Committee of the Democratic Party.
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
It Must be an 'Independent'
As 38 year Massillon Democratic office holder, and 24 year Democratic mayor of Massillon, Frank Cicchinelli, slips off the manacles of the Democratic party and asserts his new found, deeply held change of political philosophy to 'Independent,' we have been presented with a few speed bumps on the road to his extraordinary return to the mayor's office.
Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Democratic mayoral candidate J. David Ress. Ress also had Democratic Petition for Candidate forms circulated by former mayor Cicchinelli's wife, Joy, and his former Safety Service Director, Mike Loudiana.
Were they not aware of Frank Cicchinelli's change of political affiliation from Democrat to 'Independent?'
Didn't he tell his own wife?
Doesn't she want to join him in his Declaration of 'Independence?'
Was he tricked into signing a document where it clearly states, "We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party, hereby certify..."?
Was his signing of this document an accident?
The problem is Cicchinelli is once more the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Ward 4 Democratic council candidate Jill Creamer.
Surely this must also be a mistake, for why else would the 'Independent' Frank Cicchinelli sign yet another document where it clearly states, "Signatures on this petition should be from only one county and must be written in ink. Signatures on this petition shall be of persons who are of the same political party as stated above by the candidate."
Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on... forget it, who gets shamed when it happens a third time?
Because our currently 'Independent' candidate for mayor, and former 38 year Democratic elected official signed a third Democratic Petition for Candidate this year, this time for Democratic Councilman at Large Paul Manson.
He was the lucky 13th signer on this document. And by signing, he attested that he was, indeed, once more, a Democrat;
Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Democratic mayoral candidate J. David Ress. Ress also had Democratic Petition for Candidate forms circulated by former mayor Cicchinelli's wife, Joy, and his former Safety Service Director, Mike Loudiana.
Were they not aware of Frank Cicchinelli's change of political affiliation from Democrat to 'Independent?'
Didn't he tell his own wife?
Doesn't she want to join him in his Declaration of 'Independence?'
Was he tricked into signing a document where it clearly states, "We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party, hereby certify..."?
Was his signing of this document an accident?
The problem is Cicchinelli is once more the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Ward 4 Democratic council candidate Jill Creamer.
Surely this must also be a mistake, for why else would the 'Independent' Frank Cicchinelli sign yet another document where it clearly states, "Signatures on this petition should be from only one county and must be written in ink. Signatures on this petition shall be of persons who are of the same political party as stated above by the candidate."
Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on... forget it, who gets shamed when it happens a third time?
Because our currently 'Independent' candidate for mayor, and former 38 year Democratic elected official signed a third Democratic Petition for Candidate this year, this time for Democratic Councilman at Large Paul Manson.
He was the lucky 13th signer on this document. And by signing, he attested that he was, indeed, once more, a Democrat;
WHOEVER COMMITS ELECTION FALSIFICATION IS GUILTY OF A FELONY OF THE FIFTH DEGREE
PETITION FOR CANDIDATE
(This petition shall be circulated only by a member of the same political party as stated above by the candidate)
We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party, hereby certify that Paul B. Manson, whose declaration of candidacy is filed herewith, is in our opinion, well qualified to perform the duties of the office or position to which the person desires to be elected.
Signatures on this petition should be from only one county and must be written in ink. Signatures on this petition shall be of persons who are of the same political party as stated above by the candidate.
Clearly, the evidence is convincing. It is crystal clear that former 38 year elected Democratic office holder Frank Cicchinelli is truly 'Independent,' and this epiphany of 'Independence' certainly isn't an attempt to back door his way on to the ballot for the fall election. Clearly, his 'Independent' convictions are deeply held. Signing these three documents, just this year, must have been an oversight on his part, and he may have briefly forgotten just how 'Independent' he is.
Or, perhaps, he remembered just how 'Independent' he is.
Shame on any one who doubts his sincerity.
Monday, May 25, 2015
Thursday, May 21, 2015
And Talks Like a Duck
As Massillon's former 6 term Democratic mayor, and 38 year Democratic officeholder has been released from the yolk of the Democratic party, and has declared his 'Independence,' a move we are confident was the result of a deeply held change in political philosophy, and not as some have suggested, the result of political expediency, he has encountered a bump, or two, on the road to his triumphant return to the mayor's office.
He is still acting like a Democrat.
Just this year, he signed a Democratic Petition for Candidate for his stalking horse candidate for mayor in the Democratic Primary, J. David Ress.
Not only did Cicchinelli claim;
We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party, hereby certify that James D. Ress, whose declaration of candidacy is filed herewith, is in our opinion, well qualified to perform the duties of the office or position to which the person desires to be elected.
And followed these instructions;
Signatures on this petition should be from only one county and must be written in ink. Signatures on this petition shall be of persons who are of the same political party as stated above by the candidate.
Additionally, Cicchinelli's wife Joy, and former Safety & Service Director Mike Loudiana circulated J. David Ress Petitions for Candidate.
And Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Ress.
So how can this be?
How can he be both 'Independent,' and a member of the Democratic Party?
He must have made a mistake.
That must be it.
He must have accidentally signed the J. David Ress Democratic Petition for Candidate.
It was clearly an accident.
Unless he signed another Petition for Candidate for a Democrat.
Which he did.
On January 21, 2015, Francis H. Cicchinelli, Jr. was the FIRST signature on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Massillon Ward 4 Council candidate Jill Creamer.
And once more attested that he was a Democrat;
Ok, so he accidentally signed two Democratic Candidate for Petition documents, where he attested he was a Democrat.
But that must be it, just two accidents, right?
Nope.
He is still acting like a Democrat.
Just this year, he signed a Democratic Petition for Candidate for his stalking horse candidate for mayor in the Democratic Primary, J. David Ress.
Not only did Cicchinelli claim;
We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party, hereby certify that James D. Ress, whose declaration of candidacy is filed herewith, is in our opinion, well qualified to perform the duties of the office or position to which the person desires to be elected.
And followed these instructions;
Signatures on this petition should be from only one county and must be written in ink. Signatures on this petition shall be of persons who are of the same political party as stated above by the candidate.
Additionally, Cicchinelli's wife Joy, and former Safety & Service Director Mike Loudiana circulated J. David Ress Petitions for Candidate.
And Cicchinelli was the first signer on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Ress.
So how can this be?
How can he be both 'Independent,' and a member of the Democratic Party?
He must have made a mistake.
That must be it.
He must have accidentally signed the J. David Ress Democratic Petition for Candidate.
It was clearly an accident.
Unless he signed another Petition for Candidate for a Democrat.
Which he did.
On January 21, 2015, Francis H. Cicchinelli, Jr. was the FIRST signature on a Democratic Petition for Candidate for Massillon Ward 4 Council candidate Jill Creamer.
And once more attested that he was a Democrat;
WHOEVER COMMITS ELECTION FALSIFICATION IS GUILTY OF A FELONY OF THE FIFTH DEGREE
PETITION FOR CANDIDATE
(This petition shall be circulated only by a member of the same political party as stated above by the candidate)
We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party, hereby certify that Jill E. Creamer, whose declaration of candidacy is filed herewith, is in our opinion, well qualified to perform the duties of the office or position to which the person desires to be elected.
Signatures on this petition should be from only one county and must be written in ink. Signatures on this petition shall be of persons who are of the same political party as stated above by the candidate.
Ok, so he accidentally signed two Democratic Candidate for Petition documents, where he attested he was a Democrat.
But that must be it, just two accidents, right?
Nope.
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
If It Walks Like a Duck
38 year Massillon Democratic elected official Frank Cicchinelli has had a political epiphany.
He is no longer bound by the chains of the Democratic party.
He has declared his political 'Independence.'
Now, of course, he didn't declare his 'Independence' merely because he wanted to run for mayor by skipping the Democratic primary, a primary he lost to the current mayor 4 years ago.
Oh no, we are confident he is a man of integrity, whose political philosophy has truly changed, and this 'Independence' was not a result of political expediency.
He is, of course, 'Independent' and therefore has nothing to do with his former party.
Because, if he was involved with his 'former' party, he wouldn't be 'Independent.'
And shouldn't be allowed to run for mayor.
On an unrelated note -
In order to run in the Democratic primary, a Democratic candidate must circulate a Declaration of Candidacy Party Primary Election
Like Massillon Democratic candidate James D. "J. David" Ress circulated when he ran for mayor.
Which included the following language;
Nope.
He is no longer bound by the chains of the Democratic party.
He has declared his political 'Independence.'
Now, of course, he didn't declare his 'Independence' merely because he wanted to run for mayor by skipping the Democratic primary, a primary he lost to the current mayor 4 years ago.
Oh no, we are confident he is a man of integrity, whose political philosophy has truly changed, and this 'Independence' was not a result of political expediency.
He is, of course, 'Independent' and therefore has nothing to do with his former party.
Because, if he was involved with his 'former' party, he wouldn't be 'Independent.'
And shouldn't be allowed to run for mayor.
On an unrelated note -
In order to run in the Democratic primary, a Democratic candidate must circulate a Declaration of Candidacy Party Primary Election
Like Massillon Democratic candidate James D. "J. David" Ress circulated when he ran for mayor.
Which included the following language;
WHOEVER COMMITS ELECTION FALSIFICATION IS GUILTY OF A FELONY OF THE FIFTH DEGREE
PETITION FOR CANDIDATE
(This petition shall be circulated only by a member of the same political party as stated above by the candidate)
We, the undersigned qualified electors of the State of Ohio, whose voting residence is in the county, city, village, or township, set opposite our names, and members of the Democratic Party, hereby certify that James D. Ress, whose declaration of candidacy is filed herewith, is in our opinion, well qualified to perform the duties of the office or position to which the person desires to be elected.
Signatures on this petition should be from only one county and must be written in ink. Signatures on this petition shall be of persons who are of the same political party as stated above by the candidate.
And the very first signer on this particular petition?
Any guesses?
Give up?
Francis H. Cicchinelli, Jr. - January 21, 2015
So much for "and members of the Democratic Party"
So much for "Signatures on this petition shall be of persons who are of the same political party as stated above by the candidate."
So much for his Declaration of 'Independence'
But, of course, this must be a mistake. This must be the only Democratic Petition for Candidate he signed this year, right?
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
You Make the Call
As former 38 year Massillon Democratic elected officeholder Frank Cicchinelli was blinded by the light of 'Independence' on his road back to the mayor's office, an office he sees as rightfully, and perpetually his, some would argue he has made a few detours.
As we have been told, to run as an Independent, a prospective candidate for election must actually be an Independent.
Is our 'Extraordinary' former mayor truly repentant of his once Democratic political philosophy?
Has he seen the light, after 3 and 1/2 years of wandering the political desert after being slain by 'that woman' in the 2011 Democratic primary?
Is he 'Independent,' because his political philosophy has changed over time, and he no longer subscribes to the Democratic party philosophy?
or
Has he cloaked himself in the veil of 'Independence,' so he might navigate a return to what he sees as rightfully his, the office of mayor in the City of Massillon?
Did he avoid a Democratic primary he could never win?
Did he escape a process where he could never obtain 50% of the vote in any scenario only to enter a process where a more achievable 30% of the vote could once more make him a winner?
The question becomes, is Frank Cicchinelli truly an Independent, or is he merely trying to game the system to use his 'Independence' to back door his way back into the mayor's office?
Decide for yourself.
And we will be helping you decide for yourself starting tomorrow.
As we have been told, to run as an Independent, a prospective candidate for election must actually be an Independent.
Is our 'Extraordinary' former mayor truly repentant of his once Democratic political philosophy?
Has he seen the light, after 3 and 1/2 years of wandering the political desert after being slain by 'that woman' in the 2011 Democratic primary?
Is he 'Independent,' because his political philosophy has changed over time, and he no longer subscribes to the Democratic party philosophy?
or
Has he cloaked himself in the veil of 'Independence,' so he might navigate a return to what he sees as rightfully his, the office of mayor in the City of Massillon?
Did he avoid a Democratic primary he could never win?
Did he escape a process where he could never obtain 50% of the vote in any scenario only to enter a process where a more achievable 30% of the vote could once more make him a winner?
The question becomes, is Frank Cicchinelli truly an Independent, or is he merely trying to game the system to use his 'Independence' to back door his way back into the mayor's office?
Decide for yourself.
And we will be helping you decide for yourself starting tomorrow.
Monday, May 18, 2015
A Constitutional Right
"What it really boils down to is constitutional rights," said the 63 year-old Cicchinelli. "Whose place is it to say what I am? If a voter can change parties, then a candidate can do the same."
(The Repository, May 17, 2015).
Reporters Tim Botos and Allison Matas wrote an in-depth front page article for yesterday's Repository newspaper. If you haven't read it, we urge you to check it out.
It was about how long term Democratic politicians Tom Bernabei, a Democratic Stark County Commissioner, and 38 year Massillon Democratic officeholder, Frank Cicchinelli, were both struck by the same epiphany as they decided to run for mayor of their respective cities, Bernabei in Canton, and Cicchinelli in Massillon. They were no longer Democrats, they were 'Independent' and free from the yoke of the Democratic political party.
Now, the cynical among us might be thinking these gentlemen didn't really have a political epiphany. The cynical among us might believe Bernabei and Cicchinelli wanted to run for mayor while avoiding a Democratic primary they might well lose.
In Cicchinelli's case, a primary he has lost. Current mayor Kathy Catazaro-Perry ousted Cicchinelli from his quarter century rule as Massillon's mayor in 2011, besting Cicchinelli in the Democratic primary by a comfortable margin.
The cynical among us might be thinking Cicchinelli didn't want a rematch with Catazaro-Perry, knowing he could never get 50% of the vote among any reasonable segment of Massillon voters, and was seeking a back door route to reclaim what he sees as rightfully and perpetually his, the office of Mayor of Massillon.
Now, avoiding the Democratic primary he would have likely lost, and heading straight to the November election, where he will be but one of four likely candidates, where 30% of the vote might be just enough to herald his extraordinary return, might have been a more tempting scheme for Massillon's 'Mayor for Life.'
But, according to Ohio's laws and rules, he must actually be an Independent to run as an Independent.
And the Stark County Board of Elections will have to rule on his new found 'Independence.'
And, according to several of our faithful readers, Cicchinelli's recent actions may have been less than 'Independent,' which may lead the cynical among us to believe he hasn't adopted a new found 'Independent' political philosophy, that this is all a ruse, and that his political philosophy is what it has always been.
Cicchinelli for Cicchinelli.
(The Repository, May 17, 2015).
Reporters Tim Botos and Allison Matas wrote an in-depth front page article for yesterday's Repository newspaper. If you haven't read it, we urge you to check it out.
It was about how long term Democratic politicians Tom Bernabei, a Democratic Stark County Commissioner, and 38 year Massillon Democratic officeholder, Frank Cicchinelli, were both struck by the same epiphany as they decided to run for mayor of their respective cities, Bernabei in Canton, and Cicchinelli in Massillon. They were no longer Democrats, they were 'Independent' and free from the yoke of the Democratic political party.
Now, the cynical among us might be thinking these gentlemen didn't really have a political epiphany. The cynical among us might believe Bernabei and Cicchinelli wanted to run for mayor while avoiding a Democratic primary they might well lose.
In Cicchinelli's case, a primary he has lost. Current mayor Kathy Catazaro-Perry ousted Cicchinelli from his quarter century rule as Massillon's mayor in 2011, besting Cicchinelli in the Democratic primary by a comfortable margin.
The cynical among us might be thinking Cicchinelli didn't want a rematch with Catazaro-Perry, knowing he could never get 50% of the vote among any reasonable segment of Massillon voters, and was seeking a back door route to reclaim what he sees as rightfully and perpetually his, the office of Mayor of Massillon.
Now, avoiding the Democratic primary he would have likely lost, and heading straight to the November election, where he will be but one of four likely candidates, where 30% of the vote might be just enough to herald his extraordinary return, might have been a more tempting scheme for Massillon's 'Mayor for Life.'
But, according to Ohio's laws and rules, he must actually be an Independent to run as an Independent.
And the Stark County Board of Elections will have to rule on his new found 'Independence.'
And, according to several of our faithful readers, Cicchinelli's recent actions may have been less than 'Independent,' which may lead the cynical among us to believe he hasn't adopted a new found 'Independent' political philosophy, that this is all a ruse, and that his political philosophy is what it has always been.
Cicchinelli for Cicchinelli.
Friday, May 15, 2015
Legendary Support
It appears our faithful readers missed us. They missed us sooooo much, they send us stuff every day.
And we thank them for their loyal support.
And among the items they shared with us yesterday were the mayoral nominating petitions of The Extraordinary One, King Francis the 'Independent.'
To run as an 'Independent' for mayor of Massillon, a candidate needs the signatures of 81 voters to be placed on the ballot.
King Francis the 'Independent' collected 154 signatures.
And after the crack Massillon Review research team thoroughly examined the signatures, they noticed our once and future mayor for life has Legendary support in his quest to return to the mayor's office.
Remember, the City of Massillon is divided into 26 voting precincts.
And 40% of the people who signed a petition wanting Cicchicnnelli to run an eighth time for mayor came from just one precinct?
Any guesses?
Are you sure?
40% of the people who want Cicchinelli back live in the neighborhood around the Legends of Massillon Golf Course.
And we were all shocked!
We were once famously told by former President Bill Clinton that the Era of Big Government is over.
Oh wait, King Francis the 'Independent' threw Bill Clinton out of town.
The Era of Big Government lives on at the Legends of Massillon Golf Course.
Subsidized government golf course views by a city in fiscal emergency must certainly be a prudent use of taxpayer dollars.
We are so curious as to what the Cicchinellis could have possibly promised their golf course neighbors to garner their support?
What could it possibly be?
And we thank them for their loyal support.
And among the items they shared with us yesterday were the mayoral nominating petitions of The Extraordinary One, King Francis the 'Independent.'
To run as an 'Independent' for mayor of Massillon, a candidate needs the signatures of 81 voters to be placed on the ballot.
King Francis the 'Independent' collected 154 signatures.
And after the crack Massillon Review research team thoroughly examined the signatures, they noticed our once and future mayor for life has Legendary support in his quest to return to the mayor's office.
Remember, the City of Massillon is divided into 26 voting precincts.
And 40% of the people who signed a petition wanting Cicchicnnelli to run an eighth time for mayor came from just one precinct?
Any guesses?
Are you sure?
40% of the people who want Cicchinelli back live in the neighborhood around the Legends of Massillon Golf Course.
And we were all shocked!
We were once famously told by former President Bill Clinton that the Era of Big Government is over.
Oh wait, King Francis the 'Independent' threw Bill Clinton out of town.
The Era of Big Government lives on at the Legends of Massillon Golf Course.
Subsidized government golf course views by a city in fiscal emergency must certainly be a prudent use of taxpayer dollars.
We are so curious as to what the Cicchinellis could have possibly promised their golf course neighbors to garner their support?
What could it possibly be?
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