I am writing this letter in hope of convincing you to vote Todd Grace for Athens County Common Pleas Court Judge on May 6.
The Wizard’s Guild, the comic book store next to Donkey Coffee, is the home of some of my fondest memories in Athens, and it has been the starting point of many fruitful relationships. One of those relationships is with Todd Grace, managing attorney of Grace and McGee Law and owner of the Wizard’s Guild. I have had the opportunity to spend many Friday nights playing Magic: The Gathering with Todd, talking about games, Dr. Who, politics, law and life. Currently, he is campaigning to be Athens County Common Pleas Court Judge.
I could tell you that Todd is a brilliant, fair, handsome individual, but by writing this piece, my position should be clear. Unfortunately, even for the politically active, voting in a local judicial election may seem irrelevant. Taking the five minutes to walk up Court Street to vote has real implications to the students of Ohio University. A Common Pleas Court Judge sets the standard by which those in the judicial process conduct themselves — be they attorneys, prosecutors or law enforcement. Holding individuals to the highest standards of professionalism and accountability inside the courtroom sets precedent for conduct in other facets of their careers outside the courtroom. Even if you are a law-abiding citizen, having a more pleasant interaction with law enforcement is always welcome.
An important component in establishing a fair, efficient and effective court system is through establishing a precedent. The possibility for Todd Grace’s opposition to construct such a court is unlikely. William Biddlestone, if elected, could only serve a maximum of one term due to age constraints, while for Pat Lang, the Athens judgeship is simply one of his many attempts to hold public office. In 2011, Lang made an attempt to be appointed Athens County Prosecutor, the following year Lang led an unsuccessful campaign for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Todd Grace is invested in Athens, not just as an active community member but a business owner and property holder. He is connected to the student body not only through the comic book store but also through the Ultimate Frisbee Team, which he coaches. Todd Grace is the clear choice for Ohio University students and the Athens community at large. Cast your vote, May 6, for Todd Grace.
Jansen Eaton is a junior studying political science.
