The Economist in You

Why didn't STARK COUNTY POLITICAL REPORT (The Report) publish my Q&A?

2009-11-03T05:39:00.000-08:00

I reached out to Martin Olson of the SCPR the INDEPENDENT MINDED POLITICAL COMMENTATOR to express interest toward any questions that he may wish to ask during my campaign. Here is the copy of the original emails that went between us.

McCartneyforcouncil wrote:

Martin Olson,

I hope this email finds you well. We would like to know if you would be interested in an interviewing our Independent candidate Shane Wyatt McCartney. We have a few sources for you to look over to help with your consideration. When reviewing any search engine please use our candidate’s full name as well as when review any CantonRep articles.

Besides his web page here are some areas that Shane has been involved with online as well.

http://mccartneyseconomy.blogspot.com/

http://www.youtube.com/user/SWMcCartney

http://twitter.com/SWMcCartney

We appreciate the opportunity and look forward to speaking with you.

Regards,

Victoria Lynn McCartney

Candidate McCartney:

Martin Olson here of the SCPR.

I am just getting started on putting material together to cover "competitive" races in the 2009 election cycle.

Yours certainly fits that billing:

Questions:

What in your personal/political background distinguishes you from your opponents Barton/Hart?

I note that your campaign slogan is "Think Globally, Act Locally," in what specific ways in implementing this slogan as an actual personal operational model impact on voters in the 7th Ward?

What new ideas would you bring to Canton City Council as a newly elected Ward 7 representative?

What will you push in Council as your top three goals for achievement by the time you have completed your first two year term as councilman.

In what specific ways will you involve citizens of the 7th Ward in your work as a city councilman?

Do you plan to visit each and every registered voter before voting begins in your race?

In your talks with Ward 7 voters, what are they telling you about their take on the political, social and economic aspects of Canton and what are they suggesting to you as programs and policies for you to advocate for in Council?

Do you think that a Strategic Future Economic Planning Task force should be created by Canton City Council? If yes, why? If no, why not?

Running as an independent, how does this benefits Ward 7 voters; how does it harm Ward 7 voters?

This is my first set of questions. As the campaigns roll on, I will be doing follow ups for amplifications, clarifications and for input on new matter as they come to mind.

If you have any photos of you in action visiting with 7th Ward voters, please include them with your reply.

Thanks,

Martin Olson
SCPR

Was this a minor oversight? Doubtful! Martin took the time to write this in one of his post.

“…there is a least one contested race that could alter the line up.

Which race is this?

The seventh ward, is the one.

There you have Barton (the incumbent who the SCPR believes will side with Smuckler as these "test votes" come along) versus Republican Richard Hart and independent but former Democrat Shane McCartney.

This is likely to be the only Canton council race that the SCPR covers in any depth. The Stark County Republican Party has written off Canton and therefore there is very little political competition in Canton. The Stark GOP's failure to compete makes it responsible, in part, for the decline of Canton.”

Now he also states within another post the question as to ask “WHY AREN'T STARK COUNTY'S CANDIDATES LETTING VOTERS KNOW THEIR VIEWS?” Why was I purposely placed into this catigory showing to his readers that I had no intergrity?

I did take the time to answer your questions Martin as well as followed up with a phone call to make sure you received the email. You did respond with a verbal yes. So since you couldn't do this I will post my answers here.

Questions:

What in your personal/political background distinguishes you from your opponents Barton/Hart?

Our city needs leadership with global understandings. I have worked with foreign direct investors and assisted with the setup of their companies. I bring to the table the knowledge of our international and national competition, and can point to those directions that create opportunities for the city and its citizens. I am comfortable with and able to aid and advise in our city’s transitions toward local investments and global developments.

I note that your campaign slogan is "Think Globally, Act Locally," in what specific ways in implementing this slogan as an actual personal operational model impact on voters in the 7th Ward?

Think Global, Act Local is acknowledging that our city is in an economic battle toward attracting investments and development. By observing current thriving economies and making valued comparisons, our city can act locally and lead by example; creating availabilities and opportunities towards our economic renewal.

What new ideas would you bring to Canton City Council as a newly elected Ward 7 representative?

Our city has to create attractable means for investors. As a result of my research and past work exposures, I am able to assist in attracting those commercial and micro investments that are attainable to support our local commerce.

We have to develop new foundations. One such direction is to introduce the concept of micro-enterprises or an entrepreneurial institute. Consider the benefits of what micro-industry can accomplish. The core is a tightened focus that hones in on manageable and profitable means at a low cost of setup.

By having several micro-businesses under the same roof, this diverse cosmopolitan becomes reliant on each other, and can grow by leaps and bounds. Each micro-unit could contain its own identity, but share the tools and responsibly toward the group’s overall economic success.

What will you push in Council as your top three goals for achievement by the time you have completed your first two year term as councilman.

Our government has to encourage, not frustrate the city’s economic restoration; therefore sharing my knowledge of the awareness of our global competition would be at the top of my priority list. After introducing the global and national models to council and all those willing to follow, healthy debate will reveal opportunities for improvements, provide options, and motivate people to act in mutual support to formulate collective concepts and phase into the restructuring of our economy.

In what specific ways will you involve citizens of the 7th Ward in your work as a city councilman?

I encourage the involvement of my ward. If there are concerns that I can assist with, I will use every means possible to be accessible, i.e. face to face, phone, email and the mixture of social networks. I would even set up shop to work at council. As long as I had access to Wi-Fi and a phone I will be able to make myself available. However, I do request for the concerned citizens to be kind enough to respect personal time with my family.

Do you plan to visit each and every registered voter before voting begins in your race?

There are many constituents in Ward 7. It will be difficult to see all of them, but I will try. For that main reason, I’ve constructed my website, blog and other online social outlets to make myself available for questions and concerns that I may not be able to address in person. My contact information is published to respond via email as well.

In your talks with Ward 7 voters, what are they telling you about their take on the political, social and economic aspects of Canton and what are they suggesting to you as programs and policies for you to advocate for in Council?

Many people are very concerned about our areas economic condition and the direction our city is heading. These anxieties are evident in their faces. I can empathize; I’ve worn a lot of the same shoes and have crossed many of the same bridges.

There have been many ranges of suggestions, for example, a small bakery/deli to utilize more green initiatives in addition to recycling.
I am very excited and appreciate the ward’s responses. To witness people looking at opportunities for us to develop is encouraging.

Do you think that a Strategic Future Economic Planning Task force should be created by Canton City Council? If yes, why? If no, why not?

Of course! Council is the heart of our city’s economic progressions. This approach begins by studying our competition and learning how they successfully attract and retain businesses, followed by implementing defensive and offensive tactics for our economic survival. This will be a difficult but an achievable task through rational discussions and actions.
The international and national understandings that I have acquired will help contribute toward this united front; we need to shore up our existing strengths as well as open new progressive doors for our city’s economic renewal.

Running as an independent, how does this benefits Ward 7 voters; how does it harm Ward 7 voters?

It would be foolish of me to say I won’t have any opposition or even hesitant voters, but I am a bit biased and see no harm running as an independent. I’m running without political support, financial contributions and all of those other matters that traditional politics have created.
I am able to be a true concerned voice and I come as I am, with the global knowledge I’ve learned and attained to support my community.
I believe that my political party disconnection creates a blank slate and stepping stone for a new movement for political leadership.

Shame on you Martin, you say you want to bring out fair and compelling writings but you can’t even take the time to be courteous to a candidate that did respond to your questions. Shame, Shame, Shame!

Shane

I will be on the Ron Ponder Show

2009-10-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

Ron Ponder hosts "Points to Ponder" Weekdays 10A-12N

Update... Thank you for all the phone calls and support. I do appreciate it. As for if the show can be a Podcast or download, I have asked and I am currently waiting for a response. Please note; I am not sure if there is a charge but there are those rights that are in place for re-broadcasting. I hope to be able to gain the recording and will share it as soon as I can. :-) Thanks for the listen.

Thank you again Ron for the opportunity and to you Ward 7 for your support.

Shane

I will be on News Talk Radio 1480 WHBC in Canton Ohio with Ron Ponder on Thursday October 29 from 10-12. You can tune in via radio or stream it online. Thanks for the listen and I hope you can hang out with us.

Shane

Council candidates sound off on pay and benefits - Canton, OH - CantonRep.com

2009-10-24T21:47:00.001-07:00

Council candidates sound off on pay and benefits - Canton, OH - CantonRep.com

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The financial race for the November ballot - Canton, OH - CantonRep.com

2009-10-24T08:17:00.001-07:00

The financial race for the November ballot - Canton, OH - CantonRep.com

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Because I did not spend over a $1000.00 dollars for my candidacy, I was not required to file any reports, however, I wanted too!

I wanted you, the voters, to see the transparencies that government needs to have as well as to provide you with some comfort knowing that I owe no special interest group or lobbyist.

These old ways continue to hinder and stifle our community’s developments. You deserve better!

Vote Shane Wyatt McCartney for your City of Canton Ward 7 Councilman.

Latest FRB

2009-10-21T11:33:00.000-07:00

The Federal Summary of Commentary on Current Economic Conditions by Federal Reserve District has released their report for October 21, 2009. Click on the link provide to review the full report, The Federal Beige Book

FOURTH DISTRICT – CLEVELAND
The economy in the Fourth District has shown a few signs of improvement since our last report, though overall activity is sluggish and the recovery remains fragile. Reports from factories indicated that production was steady to up slightly, with increases being attributed to new orders and seasonal adjustments. New home sales showed a modest improvement, while commercial and industrial construction continued at a slow pace. Credit availability remains a major issue for residential and commercial contractors. Sales by District retailers were flat to up slightly. New motor vehicle sales fell since the ―cash-for-clunkers‖ program ended, whereas purchases of used vehicles improved. Coal production declined, with little change noted in oil and gas output. Reports indicated an uptick in freight transport volume. Demand for new commercial and industrial loans was soft, while consumer lending was flat to down. Core deposits continued to grow substantially at most banks.
The only industries reporting notable employment reductions were commercial construction and coal mining. Staffing firm representatives had mixed responses when asked about the number of new job openings. However, a majority said that they received more requests for temps rather than permanent employees. Given the weak labor market, wage pressures are contained. We heard several reports of an uptick in steel prices. Otherwise, raw materials and product pricing were relatively stable. Business fixed investment remains at reduced levels, with little change expected in the upcoming months.

I'm going to be on iShopTalkRadio

2009-10-16T13:46:00.001-07:00

Update: 10.20.2009
iShopStark has publicly endorsed my candidacy!!!! Thank you to Marc, Christi and all at the 356 Fighter Group for your cheers and congrats! I do appreciate the love.

If you may have missed the show please play the October 20, 2009 broadcast. Don’t forget to stop by iShopStark and check out the local goodies. Links are posted below.

Thank you again.

Shane
www.mccartneyforcouncil.com

I will be on an online radio talk show iShopTalkRadio, a division of iShopStark on October 20th at 10am. You'll be able to chat with Marc, Christi “Smiles” and myself about my campaign, plus have some fun with Q&A and win prizes. So tune in, win and chat!

Hope you can hang out with us

Think Global, Act Local

Shane

With your Support

2009-10-15T08:18:00.001-07:00

Hello All,

I do apologize for not having been more involved with the blog these past few weeks. Of course I’m not an everyday poster so visiting my blog is sometimes hit or miss. I will try to do better in the future with topics especially dealing with economical data and analysis. I'll even throw in those reflections too. Those are always fun to write and it gives us a chance to sit and smell the flowers.

I wanted to just catch up with you about my campaign. Things are well but with any campaign, no matter what others may say, there are peaks and valleys. I don’t know how many public leaders will admit this and tell you that truth, but I will.
I have met a lot of interesting people with this venture and have had some great conversations and in all of our chats the one underlining factor that sticks out is our local economy.
Everything develops around one common denominator. BUSINESS! Business creates jobs and revenues for our lives. All of our concerns and anxieties stem from the lack of more investments.

Our community sits between a rock and a hard place and to start mending our fences and attracting these investments we need to understand our global competition. Why you may ask? It is because they are attaching business and we are losing business. I don’t like the use of some economists call this an “economic war”. I’d rather say capitalistic competition.
I bring my innovation but I also bring to the table the experience and knowledge of what our global competitors are doing to economically develop. I lived and worked in Southeast Asia and have a collection of information. I have also traveled for the past 3 years accumulating and examining economic data in other countries as well as a mixture of cities throughout our great nation. I can point to those directions that support our local commerce and rekindle our economy.

We can no longer have the mind set of let’s wait and allow things to sort out by themselves. We have been delayed long enough.

We have to become active with better incentives while working with investors, help local business break into trade and create those opportunities for an entrepreneur that can help nurture and offset those challenges that they contend with.

I won’t stand here and tell you that this will be a walk in the park. It will be difficult, it will be challenging but through our hard work we will be awarded through our determination.

Here are some publications that I have been involved with that you may wish to check out.
Local Paper

League of Women Voters

Don’t forget to Google my full name.

With imagination, courage and fortitude,

Shane

Federal Beige Book September 9, 2009

2009-09-10T07:08:00.000-07:00

The Federal Beige books provide those indicators that allow interested parties to review and compare the economic conditions of twelve Districts, which includes Cleveland, Ohio as the 4th District. Each District breaks down a summary of areas that they monitor. For the 4th district those categories are Manufacturing, Real Estate, Consumer Spending, Banking, Energy and Transportation.

I have included the site for you to review September 9ths publication and the past months of 2009 releases. From this site you can also review the past publications as far back as 1996. If you would like to review as far back as 1970 you will be able to review the information at the Beige Book Archives of Minneapolis.

These books are tools that I have been using during my research and case studies. I hope you’re able to find them useful as I have.

Shane

Summary of Commentary on Current Economic Conditions by Federal Reserve District

Commonly known as the Beige Book, this report is published eight times per year. Each Federal Reserve Bank gathers anecdotal information on current economic conditions in its District through reports from Bank and Branch directors and interviews with key business contacts, economists, market experts, and other sources. The Beige Book summarizes this information by District and sector. An overall summary of the twelve district reports is prepared by a designated Federal Reserve Bank on a rotating basis.

Federal Beige Book 2009

My First Campaign Q & A

2009-09-08T08:30:00.000-07:00

I just had my first political Q&A. I have to admit, I was a bit nerves but the reporter did a great job to ease my fears and allowed me to be myself. Here is the link to Americana. I hope you enjoy it.

Thank you Bill for your questions and interests in my political inspiration.

Shane

http://www.cdeis.com/americana02.html

The Global Mindset that can Help Uplift a Community
America is not a political monolith with overwhelming central control, but a quilt of municipal, county, state and national political culture. One locally involved American is someone who to our mind embodies so many of the qualities that make America great. We recently interviewed Shane Wyatt McCartney, someone who is using a modern and global approach to help his beloved hometown, Canton Ohio.

Campaign music

2009-09-04T06:01:00.000-07:00

I was recently ask as to how I get going and stay “pumped” for the November 3rd elections. Since it’s a Friday, and with Labor Day around the corner, I thought it may be a nice time to share with you a few of my favorite motivations.
As you may know, I really enjoy music and have used music to get me in that “zone”, especially when I was a roller and ice hockey goaltender.
Anyway please enjoy this short list of some of my campaign music.

Thanks,

Shane

Leann Rimes - National Anthem

1st Battalion Queen's Own Cameron Highlanders [Ensemble] - Scotland the Brave / the Badge of Scotland / the Meeting of the Waters

Marvin Gaye - You're The Man

Bob Dylan - The Times They Are A-Changing

BTO - Taking Care Of Business

Alan Jackson/Jimmy Buffett - Boats to Build

Oasis - All Around The World

Rage Against the Machine - Guerilla Radio

Simple Minds - Don't You (Forget About Me)

Its Time for Some Campaigning!

2009-09-01T06:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Neighbor,

Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Shane Wyatt McCartney and I would like to be your Independent Ward 7 Councilman.

You may know of me. Some refer to me as the “haunted house guy” and you’re right; but for the past few years I haven’t been able to have that kind of fun. Instead, I wear an innovative hat, one that has been reviewing our local economics and how we can shore up our existing strengths.

Our city needs leadership with global understandings. I have worked with foreign direct investors and assisted with the setup of their companies. I am comfortable with and able to aid and counsel our city’s transitions toward global opportunities for local investments.

I am an advantage that can create opportunity.

I am able to advise with certainty and can provide my global knowledge to support our local economic developments; A strong contrast to my opponents.

Do you have any questions or want to help? Contact me at mccartneyforcouncil@neo.rr.com or through my website www.mccartneyforcouncil.com

I will have signs soon and need places of support. Thank you for your consideration.

Don't forget to use Shane Wyatt McCartney when you Google, Yahoo, bing and check out out the local papers archives.

“With Imagination, Courage and Fortitude.”

Kind regards,

Shane Wyatt McCartney

Battle of Canton, Ohio

2009-08-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

During one of my channel surfing moments, I hit upon a Current TV Vanguard episode. This episode was about the declining economical conditions of Saipan, an island located in the Pacific Ocean near Japan. Wikipedia

What particularly held my interest about this island was the impact of its manufactures loss, primarily the textile industry, and how it has affected the Siapan communities economic stabilities. Sound familiar?

I used to be employed as the US Sales Representative by a S. Korean textile company named Beautec Vina. They had open another operation in Vietnam and during my training they had brought up Siapan and how that the island was losing its textile manufactures to Vietnam because of better incentives and overall costs.

I wanted to provide for you the video for that Current TV Vanguard episode so you can understand more as to why we as a community need to Think Global, Act Local. When you loss business you loss revenue for the general fund and everything else from state and national operation. I want to aid in our economy by reinforcing our foundations and aiding in the creation of new foundations.

Also pay attention as to where the textile company will open its doors next. Hint, Hint!

Thanks,

Shane

Once the ultimate globalization success story, the island of Saipan now faces one of the fastest economic collapses in history. After suffering a harsh history of military struggles as well as a temporary economic boom after becoming a U.S. commonwealth, the island now stands devastated. Scores of factories remain empty, rotting shopping centers litter the country, and former factory workers turn to the sex industry for survival. Adam Yamaguchi visits Saipan to document the rise and sudden collapse of a tiny piece of America

Green economics

2009-07-30T09:08:00.000-07:00

This is from Recyclebank.com. This site has a page about other municipalities invovled with the program. This is a very possible program that our community could be a client of and with our economical condition we all can find a benifit.

Greener cities and towns make everyone happy. The more a municipality can save in landfill diversion and make money on recyclables, the more there will be to give back to the community, while giving back to the planet. Teaming up with RecycleBank is a unique opportunity to:

1. Realize significant savings from landfill diversion, while increasing revenue through commodity value of recyclables.

2. Provide households with meaningful savings with valuable RecycleBank Rewards.

3. Drive revenue and customer loyalty for local businesses participating in the RecycleBank Rewards Program.

4. Powerful reporting tools that track program results including participaition, weights, reward redemption and local economic and environmental impact.

There are some nice benefits with this concept. There are still some questions about the program but there is one other Ohio city using this venture and I'm sure they would be happy to talk about the program.

Will this help relieve some of our budgetary problems in order to curb our communities mounting debt? It may. Plus the community receives incentives to spend the rewards in our community. Its a sizable look and weight.

Shane

So it’s time for some reflection

2009-07-29T17:11:00.001-07:00

Box stacked on box stacked on box of time forgotten recordings littered our family’s dining room floor. Some individual works quickly found themselves on the oak table being shuffled about and placed into unorganized treasure piles of oohs and ahs.

Classical, show tunes, holiday, country, easy, rock, folk, it was all there. Mono, stereo and high-fidelity, the plethora of melody rich diversities, infused with history at variable speeds, was placed before me. They all eagerly and patiently waited for the opportunity to once again return to entertain.

Some were covered in dust, others sprinkled with hints of mold. I thought to myself, nothing that a soft touch couldn’t handle.
Some were heavily finger printed or cardinally scratched; these unfortunate casualties were a sign of well known abuse by former masters. I quickly and attentively tried my best to aid in any prolonged suffering. So far so good, and in most cases there was nothing that a dime taped to the arm of the player couldn’t handle. Things were kosher and for most, a balance was restored.

With so much vinyl, there’s no way I could go wrong. I looked over the bounty as a farmer would his harvest.
A faint whisper of “choose me” started to come from the collection. In a very short time more and more joined in, crafting every effort to get my attention. They yelled out things like “Don’t pass me by”, “I put a spell on you”, “Love me tender” and “Delirious.”
I even heard the cry to pick Beethoven symphonies #’s 5 and 8 and the guarantee of a full spectrum of sound from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “The King and I.” Pledges from the wax spun out of control.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed a gathering of some waywardly LP’s. They began to shape and construct tactics of a different flair.
Fashioned in seductive and tempting artistic apparel, these arrangements pushed through the crowded table. Some entered with grace and humility, while others were more forward with their approach. These brazen individuals, without hesitation, passionately displayed their influences like a peacock proud of his plumes.

I have to admit it, I was a bit more intrigued and it did create that persuasive argument for candidacy toward a turn at the turntable.
After some time, I made my selection and maneuvered myself throughout the cardboard maze

I placed the colorful collage of vintage covers and the secrets they kept on the living room coffee table.
This small, make shift, meet and greet lounge sparked a mixture of conversations.
The crooners couldn’t help but to make their way to the open stage. I didn’t mind, it was a nice preshow and set a comfortable tone for easier dialogue between all of us.

Drink in hand; I began to mingle my way throughout the crowd, introducing myself as formally as I could. Their reception was very kind and they cheerful drew me in to have a chat.

We shared in a few good laughs. They pointed out once hidden intention and showed me novel writings like “should be played at full volume.” Grinning I continued to shuffle though the lot and familiarize myself with the ensemble.
While working my way through the clusters, I came across an old friend named Wiki Pedia. We’ve talked before and I asked about my selection of groups. Wiki couldn’t wait and jumped at the opportunity to share a vast knowledge about the artist, their careers and other fun little tidbits.

Did you know the guy, between Ringo and Lennon, on the Abbey Road cover was touring England and discovered he was in the photo when the album was released?
Or that the track listings on the back cover of the Rolling Stones, “Let it Bleed” was intended not to match the album purposely? How about Black Sabbaths debut album? It was released on Friday the 13th and all the songs were recorded “live” in three days.

I smiled at Wiki and excused myself to get another drink.
I returned a little later to find the crowd of talent itching to be a part of this lollapalooza. I looked over to Wiki and gave a nod, we were ready. I decided to go with who I knew, made my selection and approached the stage. “This was going to be good” I said as I made the appropriate settings and clicked start.

A silence came about as we all gathered in front of the stage. I took a seat next to Wiki and waited for the kick off of the concert.
A snap and crackle filled the room and soon the opening song began. A lone guitar strummed, as a violin and more instruments entered, enriching the room with their opportunity to narrate a story. Soon a well known voice sang, “Pistol shots ring out in a bar room one night. Enter Patty Valentine from the upper hall. She sees the bartender in a pool of blood, Cries out; My God they killed them all! Here comes the story of the Hurricane.” I was captivated.
As the next song turned, I looked over at Wiki and asked quietly about the folk song "Hurrican". Sinking comfortably in our seats, Wiki told me how the song came about, who was there and what had happened as the artist played his harmonica. Jokingly laughing, I said that "I recently heard the song in a popular adult swim show" and referenced the title. Wiki, face unchanged, reminded me of the significance of the song and how it conveyed throughout generations and stood the test of time. I was thankful to be able to hang out with Wiki.

The night went into the early morning. Artists came and went; their songs lingered throughout the homes hallways and stairs. The lounge was almost bare. Empty beer cans, snack wrappers and cigarette butts took over the spots that skilled, soulful poets once massed.
The morning light began to peek into the homes windows; Sunday was approaching. I knew I was worn out and as I looked over toward Wiki, I saw no signs of fatigue.
Even with tired eyes and my head heavy, I had to continue on with determination and respect for my new found friends. We had to finish what we began.

The last group took to the stage and with triumphant sound; the first track shook the homes windows and laid down for future musicians, music’s 10 commandments.
The band performed with a feverish inspiration of musical bliss. Leaning over to Wiki I said, “You can’t argue at the magnitude of their talent. They will live on forever.” Wiki said nothing. I can only assume that Wiki was stunned.

The final track to this sweet night was performed by a soloist and the orchestra that accompanied him. I glanced over at Wiki and saw the signs of being tired but Wiki still wanted to share information with me.
Twelve violins, three violas, three cellos, one harp, three flutes, one clarinet, one horn, one vibraphone, one string bass, the Mike Sammes Singers and written for Julian, the soothing sounds of this lullaby swept through the home. The ensemble escorted in the morning sunlight and provided the perfect narrative toward my efforts as I prepared for bed.
Wiki’s LED continued to flicker orange, my batteries were done too. We took one last look at each and didn’t have to say a word. We both knew that we’d see each other again.
I made my way up the steps to the bedroom. The music began to ease and with a final whisper Starr, warmingly told all of us “Good night. Good night everybody. Everybody, everywhere. Good night.”

The Parties Over

2009-07-24T01:02:00.000-07:00

You think that things would settle down a bit, but something has to happen that makes me become even grumpier and more agitated. At one time this neighborhood was peaceful and nothing seems to be out of whack but anymore it has gone pear shaped.

Look I don’t want to be that guy; I was young I did goofy stuff too, but I never caused someone unhappiness.

These youths today have other ideas as to what fun is.

Besides if they were not doing anything unlawful why did they all run away from the home?

On July 24, 2009 a party let out rather quickly. As to why, I don’t know. These youths ran throughout the neighborhood and caused some grief for their after-party. What you don't get to see is what happens after they rush past and the havoc they created for the neighbors down the street. Shameful what some of these youths decide to do without any apprehension for others property.

There is an ordinance for Canton 503.02 CURFEW FOR MINORS.

Thursday night, and between the hours of 12:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., Friday night through
Saturday night; provided, however, that the provisions of this section shall not apply to the following:
(1) To a minor accompanied by a parent, guardian, custodian or other
adult person having custody or control of such minor;
(2) To a minor who is on an emergency errand or specific business or
activity directed or permitted by his parent, guardian or other
adult person having the care and custody of the minor;
(3) To a minor whose presence is connected with or required by some
legitimate employment, trade, profession or occupation;
(4) To a minor attending or returning, within one hour after the
conclusion thereof, from any scheduled activity by the Canton
Board of Education such as football or basketball games, or from
any other special function scheduled by any other church, school
or organization, provided that the church, school or organization
shall register the event in advance with the Chief of Police or
his designate, who shall require such information as is necessary
to implement the provisions of this section.
(Ord. 211-86. Passed 9-15-86.)

Our Neighborhoods watching you.

I will not, NOT be anyone’s victim and neither should you!

2009-07-15T17:39:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I had brought the Mrs. home from the airport. We pulled into our small driveway and I took notice of an individual staggering close to our vehicle. By the time I got the words “there’s a drunk guy” out of my mouth, he was on the passenger side banging on the window and the roof of the car.
The pupils of his eyes were the size of quarters and as he continued to spew his profanity toward us, we fumbled to call the police.
We try every effort to remove ourselves from the situation only to be blocked and victimized by another erratic behavior from this jerk.
In the end everyone was okay and the guy was taken away thanks to the great response of the CCP.

The Mrs. and I are still taken back by the event. With all the different places we have traveled around the world, this happened in our backyard for real. Not like it would be any better anywhere else. I know this to shall pass but I am a bit more jumping these days.

The point of this post is that I wanted to bring into the light a grass roots neighborhood watch program.
Of course I feel strongly about this program and will do everything in my power to aid in its success.

I do want to point out that this is not a ploy to maneuver my candidacy and yet saying that will heighten those pessimistic individuals. Regardless this is an important topic and the word needs to get out!

Dear Neighbor-

I am looking into starting a neighborhood crime watch for our block. In view of a few situations we’ve experienced on our street, I thought it would be a good idea.

The reason for the letter is that I wanted to know how many of you would be interested in attending a meeting before I would search out a meeting place. After I find a place to meet ( as close to our homes as possible), we will choose a date and time for a meeting. Mr. Knight will then provide me with fliers to mail out to all of your with that information and place an article in the Repository. The police and council member will notified of the meeting.

I feel that it is important that we watch out for our children and elderly neighbors. I think, and hope that you will too, that getting to know our neighbors will be positive thing as well.

Please contact me as to whether you would be willing to attend the meeting if it works out worth your schedule.

Email: keep24safe@aol.com

Thanks,

Nancy

Update: The first neighborhood watch meeting will be held, Wednesday August 12, 2009 at 6pm at the North Branch Library 189 25th St. Canton, Ohio, OH 44709 330.456.4356 http://www.starklibrary.org/

Thank you,

Shane

Stark County could use your help!

2009-07-14T08:59:00.000-07:00

It’s been awhile since my last post. I have things I want to talk about but the pot is still simmering.

I was asked to help out through the CAC with my VOTE for a potential grant for Stark County and wanted to pass along its information to you.

From the Desk of Malia Watkins of the Stark County Regional Planning Commission (SCRPC)

Good afternoon Stark County and Northeast Ohio !!

Stark County Regional Planning would like to announce that is has been chosen as a finalist for a grant given by a Northeast Ohio group called EfficientGovNow and the Fund for Our Economic Future . In total, nine projects were selected to become finalists from a pool of over 60 applicants. The residents of Northeast Ohio will decide who will get funding for these projects.

This is where Stark County needs your help!! The top three projects voted on by the public will receive funding. Please help out Stark County in this regional collaboration project. This project will map out all Storm Water Conveyance System Structures in urbanized areas in the county. Participants include Canton Township, Jackson Township, Lake Township, Nimishillen Township, Perry Township, Plain Township, Tuscarawas Township, City of Louisville, City of North Canton, City of Alliance and Stark County Commissioners. Please log on to:

http://www.efficientgovnow.org/Vote/ to cast your vote. Voting begins July 1st and ends July 31st.

You may also view a 60 second synopsis of the Storm Water Conveyance project at the following link:

http://blog.efficientgovnow.org/

Thanks for your time and your help,

Shane

Economics. Who needs them?

2009-06-04T21:43:00.000-07:00

When I started this blog it was to help educate the economist in you. My first writing was titled Stark County Ohio http://mccartneyseconomy.blogspot.com/2008/11/stark-county-ohio.html. It sited a mixture of National Bureaus with facts about the community’s poor economic condition, which continues to worsen to this day. What bothers me is that the current public leaders can not foresee these same patterns and have not created any progression in solutions.
I’m baffled, frustrated and all around PO’d as to why none of Stark County's leaders activated the emergency economic development button.

On June 2, 2009 The Adversity Index, from msnbc.com and Moody's Economy.com, measures the economic health of 381 metro areas and all 50 states. Each area is in recession, at risk, recovering or expanding. On this map you can explore changes in the four components of the index: employment, housing starts, housing prices and industrial production, each shown as a percentage change from a year earlier. (The change in housing prices will be updated at the end of the quarter.) Roll over a state to see its numbers. Click on a state to see details for its metro areas. Slide left or right to see data for different months. Click play to see all the months. Use the forward and back buttons to step a month at a time. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29976394
This information provides reasonable support for my research and provides an interactive approach throughout the years of 1995 to 2009.

Now I did not go as far back as 1995. Mine started at the year 2000. What I have done was create a projection forecast to 2014 with some pickings of 2020 and 2030 for the local. I can identify those "dynamic growth drivers" that create new foundations and the proper procedures of such foundations. A real workable and conceptional plan with what we have available against our current economical and global challenges.

Our future is dependent on many conditions that our everyday activities don’t allow us to focus on. I have taken that time and because I decided to become an economic leader, the data that I have collected has been from a Magellan approach lead by the reverse engineering of the information gathered while working in Vietnam. My research is 2 years of continued real time information that has been exhausting to develop but I have been very committed to making things better for our community. I have always been pretty good with numbers and analysis. I like it and it suits me.

Know Our Competition

2009-05-19T11:31:00.000-07:00

As you may be aware of one of my last posting knowing-competition, knowing the City's competition allows us to build a better foundation that supports business which inturn provides revenues for our community. Below is a video of some economic competition.

Saturday April 18th 2009, My day with the Canton City Police Department. Part 1 of 2

2009-04-22T20:21:00.000-07:00

It has been some time since my last post. I have wanted to write something for a while, but really couldn’t get into one certain topic. So I waited.

On Saturday I had the opportunity, through the Leadership Academy, to participate in a ride along program with the Canton Police Department. I jumped at the chance to receive REAL TIME knowledge of what it is like for today’s local police officer in our community.

I had my uncertainties as to what I was getting myself into. While sipping coffee and discussing my thoughts with the Mrs., we arranged a broad spectrum of concepts that even included that maybe this ride along could be just PR-BS.
I kissed the Mrs. goodbye, received some last minute advice and started for downtown.

I arrived for the 10pm shift, early as usual, signed my waiver and sat waiting for the Officers’ briefings to conclude.
Looking around the room there were a mixture of interests to view. In front of me was the collection and information window. Next door to it, a listing of infractions, their correlated prices and cash only in bold; on the opposite side, the pictures of fallen comrades with small excerpters of their passing. A cemetery rub of their names was under each picture. I questioned to myself, why would someone want to take on such a choice of a career? I also questioned why I was there.
The Officer came out through an oak door and asked if I was Mr. McCartney. I nodded and he and I made our informal introductions while walking to the cruiser to start our night.

A few of my notions were quickly stamped out when our shift got underway. We drove through areas that had seemed to be forgotten. There were many homes that have been boarded up, neighborhood plight as well as a few areas known for promiscuous occurrences. You read or hear rumors about things but when you see it, speculations do change.

While checking a questionable vehicle, the patrol car’s radio announced an attempted suicide. We took off with lighting speed, our lights and sirens going. Cautiously, we crossed intersections, the Officer’s relaxed disposition from earlier was replaced with concern and deep concentration.
We arrived at the home and I was told to sit tight and wait while the Officer and colleagues jumped into action. The car doors clicked locked three times as more law enforcement and paramedics arrived. A few of the Officers carefully and calmly spoke through the houses exterior with the individual who wanted to opt out. The instinct of prayer crossed and I asked for the safety of everyone. In a few minutes of this surreal moment, a gentleman came out, appearing disoriented. The Officers took the necessary precautions as the paramedics rushed in to make sure he was okay.
The man was placed into the ambulance and taken to the hospital for observation and we returned to work. I thought to myself, this night had only just begun, as I popped a few mints.

Throughout the hours of darkness, we maneuvered in and out of the Canton area checking on alarms, a few public disturbances and routine checks. We took advantage of the slow moments to discuss topics of interest and Canton. The conversations varied and I did find out that there has not been any new cop insult or slang and not all law enforcement enjoy donuts. Sometimes you just have to ask but there is that old saying of curiosity and a cat. Luckily for me, the Officer was a good sport, otherwise the wife would have been correct and may have picked me up from County. One of her last advices, before I left, “Keep yourself out of the back seat.”

As we continued our shift and during one of our discussions, the radio interrupts; “Shots fired, Shots fired!” My head raced to belief. I looked over and the Officers game face was on and we raced from our location to the scene with warp like speed, taking every necessary caution while in transit.
The parking lot was jammed with cars wanting and waiting to leave. The Officer told me that it would be better for me to stay as the echo of the locks clicked during his rush to join the rest of the patrol. I was still trying to focus on what was going on while I drew out my tin of mints. I couldn’t see anything but the continuation of cars leaving till only a few were left. In a few minutes, the Officer returned to the vehicle and we went back to work leaving the others to complete the tasks at hand. In a mild tone I asked, “Is this a normal night?” His reply, “Sometimes, tonight’s slow.”

Thinking now, I wonder what my face looked like as my jaw dropped.

To Be Cont.

*Please note: June 7, 2009... I wish I could continue this section of the story but do to some events during the rest of the ride along, I am unable to write.

I do appreciate the time that the Leadership Academy and the Canton Police Department has provided for me. Thank you for your candor officer Sunbury. It was a pleasure to meet you and the others on the force. To be a witness to your life, of the everyday drama you experience will always be remembered.
It pushes me to work harder for our City and community.

If you ever find yourself looking for a gift for the CCP, buy some hand sanitizer. I am sure it will be appreciated.

Take time to Reflect.

2009-03-10T00:44:00.000-07:00

With so many problems for our community, I wanted to take a Brian Williams approach and write about something different. Something that maybe will provide a smile or a refreshing read that allows you to enjoy a personal happy moment. In these times we all could use that peace.

As you may be aware for the past few years I have been able to study a mixture of economical structures and patterns throughout many areas on this great planet. I have been very fortunate to see numerous natural and man made things that tickle and tantalize, questioned and ponder the human in me; while the serenity of my music provided that best underlining score for my real life motion picture.

I was able to stroll and immerse myself into the redwoods of California. I ventured uneven streets in Vietnam and hung out under a giant waterfall in Costa Rica. I was able to pay homage to Theodore Roosevelt in Long Island and share a wonderful Italian dinner in New York with my wife. I watched under the moonlight, sea turtles come to shore in Melbourne Florida to lay their eggs and I stood in a line wearing a Hawaiian shirt, shorts and in sandals, hanging out with geniuses and their research at NASA.

We come to a point in life that seems to become an endless circle of an emotional roller coaster, while forgetting a special moment that brought the simplest of pleasures. We become so focus in our fast paced ways that those “stop and smell the rose’s” periods are really unheard of. But reflection needs to be in our lives. Happy times amongst the chaos.

Take that time and remember. Find your cheerful moment. You will soon find a breath of fresh air that will not only lift your spirits but somewhat recharge your emotions to a Qi (chi) like state.

Here’s to your happy times!

Cheers

Investment Policy Review of Viet Nam

2009-02-25T09:00:00.000-08:00

Geneva, 11 February 2009 - Viet Nam should widen the scope of its efforts to promote and attract foreign direct investment (FDI) to the services sectors in order to continue on its fast development track, UNCTAD recommends in its Investment Policy Review . This study was presented in Geneva on 9 February 2009 during a working session with Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Hoang Trung Hai, Vice-Minister of Planning and Investment Mr. Nguyen Chi Dzung, and Vice-Minister of Industry and Trade Mr. Do Huu Hao.

As pointed out in the Investment Policy Review, Viet Nam has undergone an extraordinary economic transformation since it began its transition towards a market economy in 1986 under the "Doi Moi" (renovation) process. The decision to allow private enterprise, the opening of the economy to trade and foreign investment, as well as other structural reforms, fostered industrialization and wealth creation. Poverty plagued more than 60 per cent of the population in 1986, but less than 20 per cent of Viet Nam´s 84 million people were living below the poverty line in 2004.

The Investment Policy Review (http://www.unctad.org/ipr) makes a thorough assessment of investment regulations in Viet Nam. It provides concrete recommendations on what the Government could do to build on the achievements of the past decades, to pursue further reforms to the investment climate, and to attract higher levels of beneficial foreign direct investment. As indicated by the Singaporean ambassador during the meeting, a favourable investment climate is always a work-in-progress that needs constant improvements. This remark is particularly true in the context of the current world recession, which will imply a sharp fall in global flows of foreign direct investment.

Participants from private companies pointed out that Viet Nam that the country competes globally, and against its partner countries in ASEAN, to attract FDI, and that it needs to continue improving its business climate, particularly in the current context of global financial and economic crisis.
Think Global Act Local!

Hello Gorilla

2009-02-18T21:22:00.000-08:00

There is a 800lb Gorilla in the room and no ones paying any attention. Stark County is in a depression and instead of the communities using logic to develop real economic development they play school yard tactics and spin the word economic development to assure the public that these annexations, levies and any other sock it to your pocket is in our best interest.
The fact is we are not cost competitive on a global scale. The US has a corporation tax of 35%, were as China and other areas have 20%. http://www.nber.org/tmp/80210-w13756.pdf
Ohio has an additional 5.1% tax, creating a 38.1% overall corporation tax. Now factor in any additional tax like Canton City 2% then it becomes identifiable why businesses begin to seek better potentials, especially across the pond.
In South East Asia the average educated on the floor worker makes $80 USD and the front office worker with a Bachelors degree makes $700 to $900 USD a month. The total burden rate for a company is approximately $30,000 USD. For many US businesses the average insurance for a hundred employees and familys was $30,000USD in 2006 and has increase 20% per year.
There are other factors to our community’s troubles such as the infrastructure for mass transits, the high cost of worker’s compensation, higher wages and benefits, lower educational attainment of the workers and this list is just the beginning.
We need to reform our thinking to become globally competitive in order to attract and retain businesses to spark those monies for government, schools and other projects that we have become accustom too.
Hello Gorilla.

I am running for Canton City Ward 7 Council

2009-02-05T15:06:00.000-08:00

ENOUGH with business as usual! Everyday, wasted local Government practices, steeped in tradition and old ideas, hinder our communities forward developments and stagnate our growth against our global rivals.
It is time to draw upon modern day talent with real knowledge about the global economic environment and how it does affect us. It is time to repurpose ourselves with new foundations so we can be in the front of the line for economic growth toward our sustainability.
There is a substantial degree of information that I have obtained.
For the past two years, I have spent countless hours reviewing online economic publications and participating in economic seminars as well as traveled internationally and nationally comparing my data. This diverse knowledge has motivated me, with due diligence, to produce my own economic development strategies in order to Stay Competitive with the Global Economy.
My Fresh and Efficient Perspective is in order to Create Jobs, Retain Businesses and Provide Stable Solutions.
I am very concerned and empathetic toward the economical hardship that Canton and Stark County continues to contend with and understand the significant difficulties that its citizens persistently bear.
I have a passionate interest with experience in economic development. My Realistic Concepts can be implemented and streamline our economic progression even while in our current financial difficulties and that is why I am Running for Ward 7 Councilman.
I look forward to sharing these concepts as well as look forward toward discussing your thoughts with me.

With Imagination, Courage and Fortitude for Mankind

Shane Wyatt McCartney
www.mccartneyforcouncil.com

Just Say No To Annexation

2009-01-30T11:48:00.000-08:00

Annexation is a dirty word. Its abuses the use of the Ohio Revised Code and the annexation laws to temporary satisfy the city needs.
Government does take the unhealthy practice to spin how great it is to be part of the cities services when in reality they have no legitimate obligations such as time tables for extending services to the newly annexed area, as well as no provisions for Municipal-township annexation agreements. Under the Ohio Revised Code http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/709.19 a municipality must compensate the township or village for lost revenues. This is a twelve year cycle. If a municipality is struggling with budgetary problems, how can their short comings successfully work if now they incur more debt?
If the annexation happens you will still have to participate in paying that 1.5 to 2 percent City tax and receive empty promises without anything you can do about it.
Annexation is very glorified as the way to go. Annexation is the quick fix to boost city tax revenue and pay for services, but the quick fix generally becomes a 2 year legal battle and still municipalities and township budgets continue to hemorrhage. Annexation only works short term till more money is needed and wolfs come out to start the cycle again.
Annexation makes it difficult to have any sort of long range development plans when portions of your boundaries and tax base are lost. It hinders any economic progression and is a band aid on the larger picture.

Cities have taken good advantage of annexation up to now but it's not the wave of the future. Our communities need to seize the opportunity and make up for the slowdown and budget shortages through joint planning and regional cooperation. Money is extremely scarce and the effects of this a negative economy gives us an ability to retool our region by looking at our resources like infrastructure so that there is more then tax abatements and hostel takeovers.

We are in a financial war and it is at a global level. Annexation prolongs long term solutions for a region and creates more bricks in that wall around our individual communities.

Here are some of our local annexation information and some ORC legislation.

Massillon Ohio
http://www.massillonohio.com/annex.html

Canton Ohio
http://www.cantonohio.gov/annexation/

Ohio Revised Code Incorporating and other annexation information
http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/707

http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/709.024

http://codes.ohio.gov/orc/search/503.07

Knowing the Competition

2009-01-26T06:37:00.000-08:00

When any business wishes to open the doors they should know who the competitors are. Capitalism stretches further then what one sees.

With the 2008 Recession we have come to witness more about Globalization, the Global structure and we should as well have take notice to our Global rivals.
Why? Well there is not one answer to this question, it is very diverse. So please allow me to respond with a small list.

Global Competitors which include their strategies and tactics

How Other Countries are Encouraging Internal and Foreign Investment which include incentives such as taxes and skilled workforce

Infrastructure Availabilities

Local and Foreign Supportive Availabilities

This list is just bullet points for any business looking to find profitable margins. Let’s face it, a business opens or expanses for profit and without it they can not survive or surpass competition. That’s a bottom line

While working in Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam, I could see the development of Capitalism and really the fall of Communism traditions. Here was a Country that deepened on 60% of it commodities from the Soviet Union. When the USSR fell, many of the Vietnamese Government Officials as well as the “well to do citizens” continued and stepped up corruption tactics. Over time the system collapsed upon itself and the country had to change.

By 1999 the rebuild of Vietnam was underway with the aid of the World Health Origination (WTO), World Trade Organization (WTO) and other International Organizations. By January 12, 2007 Vietnam had became the 150th member of the WTO. They have developed plans for investment and have seen a GDP of 8.0 for the past 4 years. They will see a drop to 6.0 or 5.5 till the global economy levels again.

Stark County plus the surrounding areas can work with countries like Vietnam. Look at this potential in a few ways.
One is it encourages trade and networking opportunities with other countries. Vietnam has 110 Industrial Zones (IZ). I personally know of 3 and in each IZ, there are 15 to 20 different countries represented and all of them doing something that requires supportive means. With the current US monetary value, we are cheaper in cost and have a niche that allows for any development country. We also have Agricultural and Industrial that would fit nicely when any country is looking for something.
If you get a chance, check out the International Monetary Fund http://www.imf.org/external/index.htm and The World Bank http://www.worldbank.org/. Both provide a “craigslist” for countries who require something and place the requirements on their websites for bidding.

Another development is, while understanding the Global environments; we can develop new local strategies for economic encouragement. I don’t know of any pro-sports team that is not aware of the opposition’s plays. That’s why they look at those films.

As a communtiy we have to restructure ourselves with real time knowledge about our competitors and how we can utilize the markets for our economic development potentials. All while creating economic development.

With Imagination, Courage and Fortitude for Mankind

Stark County, Ohio

2008-11-11T10:48:00.000-08:00

Stark County, Ohio is suffering a diverse recession and shares with the nation the fusion of dilemmas. Starks distress stems from an increasing graying community, housing troubles with an increase in foreclosures, family credit crisis which adds to delinquency’s, a rise in cost of overheads for businesses, manufacturing loss in which has incurred a labor surplus, a rise in crime, medical insurance plight, oil woes, mounting college debt without many local jobs to support graduates, food inflations, war and the continual decline in the strength of the US currency. Things have gone pear shaped.
These abiding factors have contributed to Stark County’s three year economic development decline.
There is a great undertaking of challenges for Stark County to effectively adapt the region toward the combined synchronization of focuses that are necessary to curb these hideous differences. The strategies require the utilization of the counties current abilities which include short-term to permanent implementations, well as the exploitation of global opportunities for our areas overall economical fortitude.

We repeatedly see businesses close around us. Hoover Company, FYI, Owens Corning, Macy’s and the closing of three Canton City schools. All of which creates a displaced labor force. Ever time a business cease, a rippling effect throughout the region feels its sting. It’s the idea of a general economic ecosystem. If people are not working to generate an income, there’s no money going into any of our local commerce. One helps the other. It should be a crime for political misinformation. Especially when it relates to the citizens of the community and how some local politicians wish only to give you surface level information or find new creative ways to spin the reality.

Forbes is right and wrong. I don’t agree we are a dying city, but one has to agree with facts and how Stark and Carroll County’s economical hardships significantly and persistently burden its citizens.
Take a look at the Ohio Economic Analysis Report for 2008
http://lmi.state.oh.us/research/2008OhioEconomicAnalysis.pdf provided by the Department of Job and Family Services. This information states the comparable years of 2000, 2003 and 2006 of employment in major metropolitan areas such as Canton-Massillon. Our region had the greatest relative job loss, a -7.9% and never recovered from the 2001 recession.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that Canton-Massillon when compared to the State and National unemployment rates beginning from 2002 has been notably higher than averages.
http://data.bls.gov/PDQ/servlet/SurveyOutputServlet?series_id=LAUMT39159403&data_tool=%22EaG%22
http://www.bls.gov/eag/eag.oh.htm
http://data.bls.gov/PDQ/servlet/SurveyOutputServlet?data_tool=latest_numbers&series_id=LNS14000000
The Bureau of Economical Analysis verifies that the Real GDP of 2005-2006 released September 25, 2008 for Canton-Massillon has decreased since 2004.
http://www.bea.gov/newsreleases/regional/gdp_metro/2008/xls/gdp_metro0908.xls

I have spent countless amounts of time, personal sacrifice and person finances designing an assortment of efficient stability's for Stark County and its citizens in order to curb the current mixture of recessions that continue to accrue and weaken our area. By my research there will be a continual decline in manufacturing and a rise in medical, education, and service industries. FDI investment will stall do to small profit gains unless companies from stronger currency countries approached and new incentives are in place.

We as a community need to stop being complacent and tell our public servants enough is enough. It’s a slap to our faces and a shameful display of thier cowardly character. The energy they use to bend, twist, and misshape facts for their personal quests should be employed toward providing new and supportive economical foundations for our locale. How much longer do the citizens of Stark County have to suffer until someone steps up with a strategic plan toward economic growth? Who are the people selling our communities availabilities to attract business from other parts of the nation as well as the world? Do we fit in your business cycle dear political leaders of Stark? Or are we again just your political springboard for your personal gains?