The word "coon" has been used as an epithet to attack African Americans since at least the mid 1800's. It was featured in blackface performances popularized during Andrew Jackson's administration. Jim Crow-era newspaper clippings are littered with the slur. Recently, the word was scrawled across the sidewalks outside a Kentucky university housing black students. There … Continue reading Coonville: A troubling name rich in history

Above is an image of the formal grievance. The American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 277 has filed a formal grievance against the City of Elyria. The grievance is on behalf of City of Elyria employee, Carl Spanos. As I previously reported, Spanos was accused of "harassing and intimidating" Elyria Mayor … Continue reading Labor union files grievance against City of Elyria, alleges breach of contract in Spanos case

It was just after 3:00 a.m. at Elyria's Chronicle-Telegram. Staff had just finished printing thousands of newspapers and the day's distribution was ready. Their work complete, they clocked out for the night and headed to the parking lot. There they found a vehicle that appeared out of place with the driver's door open. Inside, an … Continue reading A disturbing response to another Elyria murder (opinion)

The image above is a capture of the Notice of Discipline. You can read the full Notice here. Elyria, Ohio - The investigation into the altercation between Elyria Mayor Frank Whitfield and City of Elyria employee Carl Spanos has concluded. The City has determined Spanos was dishonest in the disciplinary hearings following the incident, according … Continue reading 3-day suspension for City of Elyria employee accused of harassing and intimidating mayor

Pictured above: City of Elyria Mayor Frank Whitfield (left) and City of Elyria Safety Service Director Matt Lundy It's been nearly three week's since Elyria's mayor, Frank Whitfield, accused a city employee of "harassment and intimidation" at a local park. First reported by the Chronicle-Telegram last week, the story received little attention, and understandably so. … Continue reading Opinion: Whitfield administration misused power by involving police in employee dispute

The above photo is one of several taken by Spanos during the August 8 incident with Mayor Whitfield Elyria Police Chief Bill Pelko confirmed this morning that he was contacted by Mayor Frank Whitfield's staff regarding an alleged altercation between Whitfield and City of Elyria employee, Carl Spanos. The incident took place at the Black … Continue reading Whitfield administration involved EPD in harassment allegations against city employee

Welcome to a new investigative blog focused on local politics and human interest stories in Ohio. As a resident of Elyria, much of my research and writing will explore Lorain County. If you're unfamiliar with my work, I've spent years blogging about the places I've lived and loved. While living in Thailand I wrote extensively … Continue reading A new investigative blog for Lorain County