Beginnings . . .

I am stepping into the world of blogging, trying to become more techno-saavy and 'modern.' or whatever that concept is called these days. Probably - no, assuredly - I am late to the party, and not fashionably late. But, I often have lots to say on subjects (and often no one to say them to) that may be of interest to someone, and in today's world with the media options we have, this seems way too easy. so - here goes.

Why 'Beginnings?' Its the title to a song by Chicago I listened to over and over while an engineering student at UVa from 1970-75  - and I believe my real beginning was at Mr. Jefferson's University. I will share many thoughts and rememberances from those Glory Days on the Grounds, and hopefully show relevance to the world in which I live today. Perhaps I may become one of the 'Honor Men.'

Down the road I will try some video blogging. My friend Marcus Carey has impressed me with his effort in his Bluegrass Blog. For now, written thought will suffice.

Why "Hoo's in charge?" Pretty simple - my daughter Hillary suggested it. I am, after all and among other things, a WAHOO, the nickname used by many for the Virginia sports teams and students -  a 'Hoo - and seem to be in charge of a lot of stuff. So, this Hoo's in charge.

In charge of what? These days, and as this is written, I operate my own law practice - THOMAS ROUSE LAW - and am engaged in the practice of family law, general and bodily injury liutigation, estate planning and administration (probate, guardianships, trusts, etc.) small business assistance, and most general practice topics.  I received my Juris Doctor from the University of Kentucky College of Law in 1978.

I am in my second term as Mayor of the City of Erlanger, KY, a city of 18,000 in Northern Kentucky and am the CEO of an operation of 150 +/- employees and a $14 million general fund budget. I spent 14 years as a member of Erlanger's City Council (1989-2003) and grew up the son of Erlanger's City Co-Ordinator (today called CAO) Clyde L. Rouse, who served the city for 24 years. Erlanger is and always will be in my blood.

I took the KY Constitutional Oath a couple of nights ago as the Kentucky Bar Association's Vice President. I will finish my 6th and final year as a member of the Board of Governors representing the 6th KY Supreme Court (SCOKY) District- 23 northern KY counties on 6/30 and become VP on 7/1. The KBA is an agency of SCOKY charged with the duty of maintaining professional discipline among its members - every attorney licensed to practice law by the Court.

I intend to discuss matters of concern to me, matters that entertain me, that amuse me, that interest me and that I think you may be interested in. I invite feedback - I never pass up a learning opportunity! I may even use this to get stuff off my chest. I hope its fun.

TLR 6/18/2011.