D’Apolito to challenge Franken

By DAVID SKOLNICK

VINDICATOR POLITICS WRITER

YOUNGSTOWN — Newly appointed Judge Timothy E. Franken of Mahoning County Common Pleas Court knew it was only a matter of time before someone would challenge him.

Lou A. D’Apolito, 63, of Boardman didn’t let Judge Franken wait too long. D’Apolito is circulating nominating petitions to run for the post in the March 2008 Democratic primary.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if there were more challengers,” Judge Franken of Beaver Township said. “I don’t see anyone running as a real problem.”

Gov. Ted Strickland appointed Franken, 59, to a vacant judicial post, effective Oct. 1. He replaced Maureen Cronin, who retired in July after 13 years on the bench.

“I’m handling the case load and already proving the governor made the right choice,” Judge Franken said.

D’Apolito said when he first became a lawyer he decided that when he was near the end of his legal career, he would run for judge or become a law professor.

“I decided this is the way to go,” he said of running for judge. “I don’t want to teach.”

For complete story, see Monday’s Vindicator or www.vindy.com.