Home Depot Goes South, Part Deux
The NHDC made a trip downtown today to review all of the documents that have been submitted for the June 7th Hearing for Home Depot's Appeal to the City. Imagine our surprise when we came across a group of petitions, signed by about 20 people, with a logo at the top that said "Stop Racism". Imagine our greater surprise when we saw that all of the petitions were signed by people that do not live in Sunland-Tujunga.
Arleta, Pacoima, Moorpark and LA, were all represented, but not a single signature from any resident of Sunland-Tujunga!
Did these petitions even make it up here to our little foothill community? Now, imagine our even greater surprise when we saw that the handwriting on the majority of the petitions appeared to be the same scribe! The petitions also had a link to their website: http://www.stopracismca.com Go look at their website and follow their few links.
I'll wait for you.
Ok, ya back? Now go look at this website: http://www.friendsofst.com This site is the home of a group that recently appeared, via e-mail, and their acronym is F.I.R.S.T. (Friends Interested in Restoring Sunland-Tujunga). Notice any similarities in their respective web sites, and more importantly their goals? How about a little "Whois" search to try and see if they are connected? This is what we found out:
Domain Name: STOPRACISMCA.COM
Registrar: SCHLUND+PARTNER AG
Whois Server: whois.schlund.info
Referral URL: http://registrar.schlund.info
Name Server: NS57.1AND1.COM
Name Server: NS58.1AND1.COM
Status: ok
Updated Date: 30-apr-2007
Creation Date: 30-apr-2007
Expiration Date: 30-apr-2008
and
Domain Name: FRIENDSOFST.COM
Registrar: SCHLUND+PARTNER AG
Whois Server: whois.schlund.info
Referral URL: http://registrar.schlund.info
Name Server: NS57.1AND1.COM
Name Server: NS58.1AND1.COM
Status: ok
Updated Date: 18-apr-2007
Creation Date: 18-apr-2007
Expiration Date: 18-apr-2007
Here is text of their petition:
Arleta, Pacoima, Moorpark and LA, were all represented, but not a single signature from any resident of Sunland-Tujunga!
Did these petitions even make it up here to our little foothill community? Now, imagine our even greater surprise when we saw that the handwriting on the majority of the petitions appeared to be the same scribe! The petitions also had a link to their website: http://www.stopracismca.com Go look at their website and follow their few links.
I'll wait for you.
Ok, ya back? Now go look at this website: http://www.friendsofst.com This site is the home of a group that recently appeared, via e-mail, and their acronym is F.I.R.S.T. (Friends Interested in Restoring Sunland-Tujunga). Notice any similarities in their respective web sites, and more importantly their goals? How about a little "Whois" search to try and see if they are connected? This is what we found out:
Domain Name: STOPRACISMCA.COM
Registrar: SCHLUND+PARTNER AG
Whois Server: whois.schlund.info
Referral URL: http://registrar.schlund.info
Name Server: NS57.1AND1.COM
Name Server: NS58.1AND1.COM
Status: ok
Updated Date: 30-apr-2007
Creation Date: 30-apr-2007
Expiration Date: 30-apr-2008
and
Domain Name: FRIENDSOFST.COM
Registrar: SCHLUND+PARTNER AG
Whois Server: whois.schlund.info
Referral URL: http://registrar.schlund.info
Name Server: NS57.1AND1.COM
Name Server: NS58.1AND1.COM
Status: ok
Updated Date: 18-apr-2007
Creation Date: 18-apr-2007
Expiration Date: 18-apr-2007
Here is text of their petition:
"Racism is very much a reality in many communities today, and we need your help to fight it!
The proposed Home Depot store in Sunland-Tujunga area has brought out to light the prevalence
of disturbing racist thoughts and beliefs in the community. Such shocking and unsettling comments
as, "Stay out of Sunland-Tujunga [and] keep your illegal Mexicans too", and Open taco stands for the
illegals at your front gates" have been stated and exposed in response to this proposed development.
What is most troubling is the fact that the elected official representing this community is acquiescing to this
group's demands. We cannot let racism dictate what happens in our communities!
We need your help to stop racism in our community! Certain residents of Sunland-Tujunga have
made very clear that they don't want The Home Depot because they "don't want Mexicans" to flood their
community. We will not tolerate this kind of hate."
The proposed Home Depot store in Sunland-Tujunga area has brought out to light the prevalence
of disturbing racist thoughts and beliefs in the community. Such shocking and unsettling comments
as, "Stay out of Sunland-Tujunga [and] keep your illegal Mexicans too", and Open taco stands for the
illegals at your front gates" have been stated and exposed in response to this proposed development.
What is most troubling is the fact that the elected official representing this community is acquiescing to this
group's demands. We cannot let racism dictate what happens in our communities!
We need your help to stop racism in our community! Certain residents of Sunland-Tujunga have
made very clear that they don't want The Home Depot because they "don't want Mexicans" to flood their
community. We will not tolerate this kind of hate."
Is it just me, or is something a little fishy here?
Is Home Depot using manufactured racism as a method to get their store opened, and advance their business goals in L.A.?
Does the Mayor approve of these tactics?
How does Mayor Sam feel about this? Ok with you , Big Guy?
And what about the candidate himself, Walter Moore, Esq.?
Is Home Depot using manufactured racism as a method to get their store opened, and advance their business goals in L.A.?
Does the Mayor approve of these tactics?
How does Mayor Sam feel about this? Ok with you , Big Guy?
And what about the candidate himself, Walter Moore, Esq.?
Posted by Unknown @ 5/30/2007 03:56:00 PM
110 Comments:
If you go to the stopracismca.com website and click on letter from the community, it states:
We are community organizers working with The Home Depot to inform and educate members of the Sunland-Tujunga community about a proposed new Home Depot store in that area.
It doesn't seem that they're hiding anything, they admit that they are working for Home Depot.
The same page also states:
Our outreach during this time has brought to light the prevalence of racist thoughts and beliefs in that community. Such shocking and unsettling comments as, "Stay out of Sunland-Tujunga [and] keep your illegal Mexicans too", and "Open taco stands for the illegals at your front gates" have been received in our office in response to this proposed development.
Joe, we know that N2HD isn't a racist organization, despite the fact that it mentioned day laborers in its appeal. The appeal didn't specify Latino day laborers, after all. But isn't it conceivable that there are racists in Sunland-Tujunga that are making these kind of statements? Is Home Depot really lying about that?
I think it's wrong for Home Depot to say everyone in Sunland-Tujunga is racist, but they're not hiding what they're doing.
Two different websites with 2 different ways of accomplishing Home Depot's mission?
Both related?
Taking the statements of a few people and characterizing them as the opinion of the entire community?
Joe sounds like you guys have some competition. No matter how well organized most of these NIMBY groups do not represent most of the community, indeed most of the community don't know they even exist. You might even get a few or several hundred people involved in some of your events (though all the video I have seen is its a small handful) but in a community of tens of thousands and a city of millions, its a blip.
Most people are going about their lives, paying their bills, watching American Idol, etc. - they don't give a shit about Home Depot or Target or underwear one way or another.
Mayor,
You did not address the issue. You skirted around it like a little nancy.
That's just crap!
As I've written here before, this is Tactic No. 1 in the L.A. Handbook to Politics: whenever you can't defend your position on the merits, call the other guy "racist."
Obviously, whoever is trying to "help" Home Depot was unable to make a case on the merits, so they simply label those who oppose them "racist."
It's the same story with illegal immigration, or opposing the excessive settlement for the firefighter who had two bites of dog food. Look for it again when the "victims" of the May Day protest sue the City: unless you believe they should get millions, they'll try to brand you "racist."
Good homework, Joe B. Details like handwriting matter.
Thank You Walter for your comments!
We do not agree on some things, but I am pleased we agree on this.
P.S. to 7:14 p.m.:
Calling oneself a "community organizer" who is "working with" the Home Depot is not honest if what they REALLY are is "paid spokesmen" who were "hired by" that company.
I, for one, am fed up with all the phony "public interest" groups that are nothing more than paid spokesmen for special interest groups, e.g., "Chief Economist Jack Keyeser" of the "LA Economic Development Corporation." Please!
Walter,
You know Joe's group is funded by Do-It Center.
You have to remember to call an astro-turfer an astro-turfer.
Also check out their website - they slam Christians and go into all kinds of un-related anti-Home Depot propaganda.
I think mayor sam is right on this one though. nobody really gives a fuck about this, evidenced by the lack of comment and you guys just talking to each other.
its sad but true.
if big ZD ain't coverin' it,then it ain't news.
lol
Give it up Mayor,
Our group is not funded by Do-It Center. I have no idea what you are talking about when you say
" anti-christian".
Please address the issue.
It's not that difficult.
Walter Moore stepped up, why can't you?
Matt, go sell some incense or something.
Sounds like Matt Dowd has the hots for the big Zuma Dogg. Although I support Dogg man, Matt is far out of his league as the biggest loser in Venice.
72 comments on Joe's last post, but the blowhards seem to be strangely absent tonite. Cat got their tongue?
Ed Reyes & Alice Corona sitting on a tree K I S S I N G
CRA MONEY
GIVE ME
GIVE ME
CRA MONEY
ALICE CORONA
K I S S I N G
Calling oneself a "community organizer" who is "working with" the Home Depot is not honest if what they REALLY are is "paid spokesmen" who were "hired by" that company.
Walter, there is no proof of this. The website says they are working WITH the Home Depot, which means they could be paid, or not.
Mayor Sam repeats the claim that Do-It-Center funds No2HD. This claim only has traction for 2 reasons:
1) Do-It-Center employees picketed the Home Depot site "on the clock"
2) No2HD says their contributions are "from the community," but how could private citizens raise enough to hire a professional engineer without some big bucks? Logic is at play here.
Everyone forgets that the only issue here is whether modifications to the building constitue a "Project." If the City holds onto the "Project" designation, Home Depot will go through the process of getting an EIR -- I can guarantee it. Joe and his crew have many more fights ahead of them.
The City has already stated it has nothing to do with HD vs. Target. The "socks and underwear" argument has no merit.
What kind of person who isn't getting paid would go to such lengths to promote a hardware store?
What kind of person who isn't getting paid would go to such lengths to promote a hardware store?
It's not about promoting a hardware store, it's about promoting basic property rights protected by the Constitution. Ever read it?
9:43 We hired a structural engineer, but have yet to pay him. He his understanding of our situation, and we hope to raise the funds over time.
9:43 How do you know they were on the clock?
I certainly have no idea if they were or not.
9:43 You are right! We have many fights ahead of us, but how come HD didn't submit to an EIR in the first place?
72 comments on Joe's last post, but the blowhards seem to be strangely absent tonite. Cat got their tongue?
The blowhards aren't absent tonight. After all, Joe B., the #1 blowhard in Sunland, wrote this post.
Joe B's post was all about how stopracismca.com was a front for Home Depot and that they were hiding it. As Anon 7:14 showed, page on the site says that they are a front for Home Depot, paid or not. There is no dishonesty here, it's just that Joe was to lazy to click on the page.
Speaking of blowhards, Walter Moore used to argue with Joe B. on this blog about the HD but now that he's running for Mayor, he decided to "flip-flop." Talk about dishonesty!
Speaking of "flip-flop," Planning Department Mr. Booher's decision says that Building and Safety "abused discretion" by issuing a tenant improvement permit to HD. And yet, Building and Safety issued the permit after a sign-off by Mr. Scott at the Planning Department!
Bear in mind that Mr. Booher said that the "socks and underwear" argument has no merit, as Anon 9:43 pointed out. The only issue is whether the tenant improvements are a "project" are not. City Planning said they were not, then after significant pressure by Councilwoman Wendy, decided that they were after all. No wonder people don't trust the City.
Mayor Sam's assertion that Do-It-Center funds No2HD is substantiated by the following:
1) Do-It-Center employees picketed the HD site on company time
2) No2HD claims "the community" funds them, but how could it afford the services of a professional engineer if larger businesses weren't kicking in some serious cash
3) Do-It-Center would compete directly with HD
I can assure you that if the appeal is upheld, HD will pursue an EIR and will also sue the City. Joe B. and his crew will have many more fights on their hands. The only question is whether the "community" (read Do-It-Center) will have the money and political will to keep funding the opposition. This saga will last many more years, and has many commenters have noted, the majority of S-T residents DO NOT CARE.
Let HD open. If no one shops there, it will close. Simple as that.
All this blogging doesn't matter for either side. You may win the battle, but you will lose the war. Get used to seeing a half-remodeled vacant building on Foothill and keep patting yourselves on the pack for all you've done.
Joe,
I still don't understand what's the big deal about Home Depot. Why are anti home depot people so against this company.
The company is solid, provides jobs, effective in community, so what's the problem?
9:51 Still, who would put up a website who's only mission is to get Home Depot opened in S-T under the banner of fighting racism? C'mon.
For Joe B.
9:43 We hired a structural engineer, but have yet to pay him. He his understanding of our situation, and we hope to raise the funds over time.
Good luck with THAT lawsuit.
9:43 How do you know they were on the clock?
I certainly have no idea if they were or not.
They were. Why wouldn't they be, since you claim the petition gatherers you and your buddies harassed over the weekend were on HD's payroll. Prove to us they weren't.
9:43 You are right! We have many fights ahead of us, but how come HD didn't submit to an EIR in the first place?
Because it's a pain in the ass and would delay the store opening. Not prevent it, mind you, just delay it. An EIR is not a "pass/fail" thing, it's just a process mandated under CEQA. You will get an HD either way, I assure you.
10:04
Go find out for yourself:
http://www.no2homedepot.com
Have you noticed those anti home depot people are usually small mom & pop business owners...
afraid of a little competition.
Damn! That's why these neighborhoods look like SHIT. No legit business is allowed to function. Why don't you protest drug dealers in neighborhood.
Protest illegal vending
Protest drug dealers
Protest trash hikes
But for God sakes let business be business and allow the community to survive.
I do know that competitors helped fund the opposition. I hadn't heard the anti-Christian angle.
This illustrates, however, what a mess local public policy debates have become. You've got sneaky people on both sides, attacking the people on the other side. We, as reasonably bright people, therefore need to focus on the merits of a policy proposal, rather than just the identity of whoever's on which side. That a horrible person supports a given policy doesn't necessarily mean the policy is bad. Hitler and Stalin may have both loved pizza, but that doesn't mean we should hate it.
10:06 I remember your drivel from last night.
Keep dreaming!
Still, no good reason.
most of it is made up.
10:04
9:51 Still, who would put up a website who's only mission is to get Home Depot opened in S-T under the banner of fighting racism? C'mon.
C'mon, Joe, read.
First, the website admits that it is "working with The Home Depot." Is that so hard to understand? It is a front for HD, whether its members are paid or not. They are being honest about it.
Second, the website says "Our outreach during this time has brought to light the prevalence of racist thoughts and beliefs in that community. Such shocking and unsettling comments as, "Stay out of Sunland-Tujunga [and] keep your illegal Mexicans too", and "Open taco stands for the illegals at your front gates" have been received in our office in response to this proposed development." Do you claim that people in Sunland-Tujunga did not submit these comments and that HD is lying? I bet people did submit racist comments.
HD put up the website, directly or indirectly, as the website clearly states. It was put up in response to genuine racist comments.
HD is wrong to label everyone up there as racist, but there are some racists up there, so HD has a leg to stand on. At least they admit they are behind this.
Walter,
Go to the No2homedepot website and find the "anti-christian" angle.
Joe is so fucking hypocrite!
He's a front for Lowe's and the LAANE and other groups who can't stand that Home Depot's workers are not union.
Mayor Sam is right too, they make fun of Christians on their site.
It ain't no grassroots group of grandma's. pure astrotuff.
oh goody, the blowhards have arrived!
asshole
you have a photo of Pastor Swaggart crying
We, as reasonably bright people, therefore need to focus on the merits of a policy proposal, rather than just the identity of whoever's on which side. That a horrible person supports a given policy doesn't necessarily mean the policy is bad. Hitler and Stalin may have both loved pizza, but that doesn't mean we should hate it.
What the hell does this mean, Walter? Strip away the identities of either side: Should HD be able to open or not?
Several months ago, you fought Joe B. every time he posted about this, defending property rights. Lately, you've written that the City wouldn't reverse Mr. Booher's decision (despite the fact that he reversed Mr. Scott's position). Tonight, you write a mess that doesn't support anyone's position.
I will vote in 2009. Walter, what is your position on HD in Sunland?
The disgraced Pastor Swaggert admitting to hiring a prostitute?
On the positive side. Public Officials, commissioners, Fire and Police departments have been working with the Sunland-Tujunga community members for many years.
They also know that community is among the most diverse communities in the city and have had no hate crimes to date.
Public Officials know better and will recognize H.D.'s playing of the race card for the bull it is.
The recently elected Vice President of the Sunland-Tujunga Neighborhood Council is Mexican. He was elected because he is very capable, not because of his race. Oh no, how can that possibly be?! Home Depot should be ashamed that they are setting such a poor example to the community members that they hope to schmooze or should we say divide to conquer.
By the way, Catholics also belong to the No Home Depot Campaign. They are considered Christians too and and they would never put up with Christian bashing were there any validity to that subject, which God knows for sure there isn't.
you have a photo of Pastor Swaggart crying
True.
Up until recently, the site also characterized Mayor V.'s lack of support as "ADIOS, SUNLAND-TUJUNGA." I am quite sure that if Mayor V. was White or Black they would have said "ADIOS" instead of "GOODBYE."
Anyone notice that Joe B., Abby, and their cohorts are all White? Check out the "contested" video that Miner posted at foothillsforum.com if you don't believe me. Watch it
No2HD also mentioned "day laborers" as an issue in their appeal. Of course, it doesn't matter that day laborers are Latino, if they were Scandavian No2HD would have mentioned it anyway.
Racist. Anti-Christian. Anti-Business. No2HD. A positive proce in your community.
He was elected because he is very capable, not because of his race.
He was elected IN SPITE of his race. Mexicans have to go the extra mile to prove their capability in a community like this.
By the way, Catholics also belong to the No Home Depot Campaign. They are considered Christians too and and they would never put up with Christian bashing
Catholics are so far from "born agains" like Swaggart that this comment has no merit.
Just who is N2HD, anyway? How about public profiles of the members? Joe B. loves publicity (even negative) so he can get behind this!
oh goody, the blowhards have arrived!
Anon 10:12, you fit that description. Don't you have anything to add to this discussion?
Just enjoying the circus!
I watched the video. In his last post, Joe B. stated that 20% of the population of S.&T. was Latino. And yet, 100% of the population is No2HD is White. What's up with that?
P.S. You guys sure like to drink.
P.S.S. Jim Alger is in the video! Wow, you have a winner on your team! He's not a quitter, except that he quit Mayor Sam.
Jim Alger in the video: "This is over." He was wrong, huh?
Jim Alger in the video:
I said Neighborhood Councils should buy supplies from Do-It-Center if a % of the profits go to the legal challenges supported by N2HD. After the legal challenges are done, the remainder of the % of profits go to all Neighborhood Councils.
Uh-oh, Joe, I think I found the smoking gun! No wonder you wanted Miner to take the video down! Sorry that Alger exposed you crooks!
Go to 11:07 of this video to see what I am talking about. Care to explain this, Joe???
9:43 We hired a structural engineer, but have yet to pay him. He his understanding of our situation, and we hope to raise the funds over time.
According to this video at 11:07, you will be able to pay the engineer with a % of the profits Do-It-Center makes selling supplies to Neighborhood Councils throughout Los Angeles.
Based on this video at 11:07, Jim Alger seems to indicate that Do-It-Center was part of this scheme from day one. Don't tell me they aren't a major funding source.
I don't know what you're smoking,
but it certainly isn't a gun!
Boy, you guys really fucked up hitching your wagon to Jim Alger's star. He sold you out, big time. And now everyone knows it. Post on this blog again Joe B. and the first comment will be able this shady Do-It-Center profit "kickback" to the N2HD crew and the NC's.
Blowhards for Everyone!
I don't know what you're smoking,
but it certainly isn't a gun!
Joe, have you seen the video? Jim Alger said that Neighborhood Councils will buy emergency supplies from Do-It-Center IF a % of the profits go to the legal challenges of No2HD. IF No2HD doesn't use all those funds for legal challenges, the remainder will go to the Neighborhood Council Congress.
From this day forward, there will be no doubt that Do-It-Center is behind No2HD. Miner got it on tape and everyone can watch it here at 11:07.
Blowhards for Everyone!
Word. Where's "Councilman John," AKA Jim Alger, when we need him to explain what we saw in the video? Jimmy, come back!
Jim Alger once again steps on his dick.
Blowhards are people too!
Oh boy MS you're going to have 178 posts by morning on this one! Way to go moron Joe B!
How about the City requiring a full accounting of N2HD's income and expenses?
Alger makes a suggestion.
Nothing ever came of it.
Don't get excited.
That's interesting if Alger really did propose that. How come he didn't offer the same deal to Lowe's?
Care to explain this, Joe???
I guess Joe's comment at 10:48 shows he's unwilling to explain the video. "I don't know what you're smoking" HAHAHAHA...he has nothing else to say.
Joe, let me put it to you like this: IS A % OF THE PROFIT DO-IT-CENTER MAKES FROM SALES TO NC'S BEING FUNNELED INTO THE LEGAL CHALLENGES OF NO2HD? Since it's in caps, you can see I haven't smoked anything. Answer the question or lose all credibility on this blog and elsewhere.
WATCH OUT ALGER!
JOE BARRETT WAS SINGING YOUR PRAISES!
NOW THAT YOU HAVE EXPOSED HIM AND HIS SCAM HE'S DROPPING YOU LIKE A ROCK!
WHY MUST YOU SCREW YOURSELF OVER LIKE THIS?
Alger makes a suggestion.
Nothing ever came of it.
YEAH RIGHT! You guys got caught on this one! Too bad you decided to enlarge the spotlight from foothillsforum.com to mayorsam. You're playing with the big boys now, Joe!
Answer the question or lose all credibility on this blog and elsewhere.
Joe lost credibility months ago. His continued presence here - as that of Dave Elliott's - loses Fatboy Higby any credbility he may have had.
I think just the opposite, actually.
Wow, the video got City-wide exposure right before the hearing. Bad timing Joe! All the City employees who read this blog are now privy to the scam you and Alger pulled!
But that's just me.
Blowhard bitch dump Joe Bitch now fatso.
Here are a few comments about that letter from the community.......
The letter on the StopRacism website is signed:
Henry Casas, Esq.
Community Member
What community is he a member of?
Is this to imply he's a member of Sunland Tujunga?
"We are community organizers working with The Home Depot to inform and educate members of the Sunland-Tujunga community about a proposed new Home Depot store in that area."
Have we seen any of these 'community organizers' ...other than the people paid to collect signatures?
Where's the community outreach they talk about? Have these 'community organizers' contacted the Sunland Tujunga Neighborhood Council to see about working together for the betterment of the community? That would seem like a logical step for people organized to help our community. Oh, I forgot, according to the HD appeal, the STNC is in kahoots with and being used by the N2HD committee...
"What is most troubling is the fact that the elected official representing this community is acquiescing to this group's demands."
I wonder what Wendy Greuel thinks of this comment.
"Several organizations have committed to fight the battle against racism."....
...organizations that they have left unnamed.
"Our goal is to generate significant press on this issue through the print and electronic media. This is a very serious issue, especially in light of all the debates on immigration reform and attempts to deprive hard working men and women of their rights...."
"If you or your organization is willing to help fight racism in the 21st century..."
I hope people won't be suckered into joining this bogus 'fight'. Home Depot, via the StopRacism website and allegations they make in their appeal, is distorting the issue and maligning the residents of Sunland Tujunga. Anyone who takes time to drive through Sunland Tujunga would see that we are a multi-racial community. Go to mass at Our Lady of Lourdes, drive along Foothill Blvd., check out Commerce Ave., look at our public and private schools, shop in our stores...we ARE a melting pot, a rich and varied community of many nationalities.
You're bound to find bigots in any community. For Home Depot to paint our community in such broad racists strokes, for them to concoct this story about fighting racism in Sunland Tujunga, is an insult to all of us. Wouldn't you concur, Mayor?
I agree with Walter:
"Obviously, whoever is trying to "help" Home Depot was unable to make a case on the merits, so they simply label those who oppose them "racist."
I think just the opposite, actually.
Opposite of WHAT, Joe? That the now-infamous video exposed your group for what it is? There's no way you can defend the "opposite" of what Alger admitted to.
Lets see those financial statements for N2HD Joe. Please also submit a copy of your personal bank statements for the last 12 months.
The City Attorney will be very interested.
Well stated, 11:03!
Joe B.:
But that's just me.
And Jim Alger.
And Do-It-Center.
And who else?
You speak for a lot of people.
Me thinks thar them No 2 Home Depot folks, the blimey captain bein that one Joseph B have opened up a giant kettle of fish for ye mateys.
I hope Mayor Sam is appreciating all the hits he is getting!
After this post and the Alger video look for Wendy Greuel and folks in City Hall to start to distance themselves big time from Joe B.
"No Home Depot, oh wait, they're one of my contributors! Adios, Sunland-Tujunga!"
Michael Trujillo will get you for that one.
I live in Sunland-Tujunga. We do not want a Home Depot. Too many Mexicans.
Hi, KarenZ, since you always parrot the "party line" at foothillsforum.com, it's good to see you here. It's about time you played with the big boys.
What community is he a member of?
Is this to imply he's a member of Sunland Tujunga?
Yes. Check records if you don't believe him.
Have we seen any of these 'community organizers' ...other than the people paid to collect signatures?
You don't have to see them in order to prove they exist. For example, 20% of the S-T population is Latino (according to Joe), yet you never see those people at No2HD meetings or protests.
Oh, I forgot, according to the HD appeal, the STNC is in kahoots with and being used by the N2HD committee...Oh, I forgot, according to the HD appeal, the STNC is in kahoots with and being used by the N2HD committee...
The STNC IS IN KAHOOTS WITH No2HD. Why else would they be funding a bus that goes to the hearing?
I wonder what Wendy Greuel thinks of this comment.
She would agree. She is acquiescing to the demands of a small group -- No2HD -- which represents less than 10% of the area residents.
...organizations that they have left unnamed.
No2HD has claimed that "90% percent" of the community supports them, yet they name no one.
Anyone who takes time to drive through Sunland Tujunga would see that we are a multi-racial community.
True. And yet No2HD is all White.
I agree with Walter:
"Obviously, whoever is trying to "help" Home Depot was unable to make a case on the merits, so they simply label those who oppose them "racist."
A few months ago, Walter supported an HD in S-T because of property rights. Now that he is running for Mayor, he supports No2HD. Do you really want to hitch your wagon to a flip-flopper?
KARENZ, WHAT DO YOU HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THE VIDEO?
I hope Mayor Sam is appreciating all the hits he is getting!
Almost all of them are from me. I can go all night. That is, unless you respond to the video and the role of Do-It-Center.
How about the City requiring a full accounting of N2HD's income and expenses?
Certainly wouldn't hurt in light of the video we've seen tonight. It's like Burger King funding a No2McDonald's group.
Joe has already responded many times.
Sunland-Tujunga is around 40% Latino not 20%.
No2Hd is multi-racial. Where do you get the all white nonsense from?
How about those two phony websites Home Depot put up?
The June 7th Hearing is going to be very interesting!! Holy Cow!
No2Hd is multi-racial. Where do you get the all white nonsense from?
Watch the video and tell me if you see one Latino person besides the waiter.
How about those two phony websites Home Depot put up?
Look at comment #1. STOP RACISM ADMITS THAT THEY ARE WORKING WITH HOME DEPOT. Nothing phoney about it.
72 comments on Joe's last post, but the blowhards seem to be strangely absent tonite. Cat got their tongue?
You got your wish. 83 comments. What say you?
I see 3 latinos (besides the waiters), 4 jews, 2 Scientologists, 1 Catholic,and several mixed race mutts. You are a clown!
No speak Bill O'Reily talk!
The only Latinos at N2HD are serving tortilla chips.
There are none so blind as those that can't see!
goodnite, clown
goodnite, clown
Is that a way of saying "adios" to yourself and letting the rest of us know that you have signed off the blog for the night?
See you tomorrow. Hope you can spin some more, you No2HD clown.
No2HD = No2MexicanDayLaborers
This is scary, I never understood Mayor Sam's opposition to The No Home Depot in Sunland Tujunga but I do know. Joe B is a liar. It was never about opposition to a bad project or bad planning issue. These people have some sort of emotional resistance to Home Depot that doesn't extend to similar stores such as Do-It Center, Lowe's or OSH. Joe B wants to shut down Home Depot entirely. It's completely irrational.
And he has a scheme with Joe Alger to shake down Do-It using City Funds to do so?
The City better reverse their decision before a federal investigation begins.
Yawn.
Please to not refer to J. Alger,as he is not a member of Sunland-Tujunga, he was only there as a candidate because he was running for a State office.
I am an orginal member of NHDC (A Senior, Catholic and Female and we all get along!) and I can tell you that I, as well as most of our members, are out a good deal of our money as well as our many hours of volunteer time. We receive no pay from any group and we are not on anyone's payroll.
I can tell you that Home Depot was sneaky and stayed under the radar for approximately a year and it wasn't made official that they had taken over the Kmart site until they had signed the lease. Do deligence for such a large purchase of stores is a very lengthy process. We heard rumors for approximately seven months prior, but could not get them confirmed by telephone or email because neither Kmart or H.D. would talk to us. The information was supplied by Kmart employees who came to the Neighborhood Council for help because they were going to lose their jobs and the store was going to close and be leased to Home Depot.They were not only concerned for their jobs but also the fact that S-T would lose their general merchantile store Many of the employees were there for 25-30 years.Because there was no proof, the STNC couldn't take any action. Of course the store closed, they lost their jobs and there is no longer a store in town nor in the foothill areas to buy clothes or housewares. The communities of La Tuna Cyn, Shadow Hills, Lake View Terrace, Pacoima and Sylmar are also affected. I should also mention, La Crescenta and Montrose
also shopped at Kmart.
Councilmember Wendy Greuel had attempted to contact Chairman Abate of H.D. many times in order to confirm the rumors and according to Greuel her calls to him were never returned. She said she had also made it very clear to H.D. that they were to consult with the STNC before making any plans. Of course they neglected to do so. It wasn't until February, 2004, when we had our first public rally at a Coffee Klatch in S-T, held by Councilmember Greuel against Home Depot, that they finally started showing their face. That is when Greuel presented us with a copy of her famous "Home Depot Letter." It was the beginning of Sunland-Tujunga becoming concious of H.D's deceitfulness and now their fabrication of lies and and propaganda regarding the community would evolve. They are continuing to spiral on a downhill roll ever since.
Wendy Greuel is opposed to Home Depot because she is supporting the Sunland-Tujunga community as she commited to do when elected. She knows the negative "quality of life impacts" such as environment and traffic that H.D. will have on the community. Also, that community members will now have to travel out of the area for necessities that Kmart provided.
Where is Home Depot's respect for Councilmember Greuel and the Sunland-Tujunga community? It is very easy to be critical of a situation when it isn't affecting your own quality of life or your property values. But, trust me, when it happens to you, you will be in there fighting just as hard as S-T. A big Thank You to all the communities out there that are supporting Sunland-Tujunga! Together we are praying for another Kmart type store!
One more comment. Home Depot is planning to go in the former Kmart in Glassell Park/Atwater area. Their community is opposed because they want a shopping center and walking community that will compliment their planned L.A. City College Annex.
It is a predominately hispanic area
During my conversation with Councilmember Parks, he revealed Home Depot is also attempting to going on Crenshaw Blvd. in So. L.A.
in a present commercial shopping area, not industrial. His community doesn't want it. It is a predominately black area.
Home Depot is not wanted in those communities either, are they being called racist. etc., as well? Are they going through the same H.D. created nightmare as Sunland-Tujunga?
Joe B., I understand why your wife left you.
Jim Alger created a plan whereby he would tell Neighborhood Councils to buy equipment from Do-It-Center if a % of the profits went to No 2 Home Depot. If any money was left over, it would go to the Congress of Neighborhood Councils.
Proof is on this video about 11 minutes in.
This has implications for the Congress of Neighborhood Councils, No 2 Home Depot, Jim Alger, and Joe Barett. Something is really wrong with this picture and the City should launch an investigation.
Mayor Sam or Zuma Dogg, why don't you feature this video and the controversy on a new thread?
No one cares. How come?
Wendy Greuel might be able to get away with it, but not NC. I can't make it through the video, but I'll just assume you got it wrong, cause that's the stupidist thing I've ever heard.
Scroll forward to 11 minutes. You don't have to watch the whole thing. I didn't get it wrong, Jim Alger says it clearly.
Zuma Dogg, watch the video if you really want to be a public advocate.
Is Mayor Sam covering up the video story because he is friends with Jim Alger and Jim used to advertise on the blog and contribute as Councilman John?
Is Mayor Sam covering up the video story because he is friends with Jim Alger and Jim used to advertise on the blog and contribute as Councilman John?
Mayor, run the story so Mr. A.D.D. will take his medication.
Zuma Dogg, why don't you watch the video and comment on it? Scroll just past 11:00 and tell us if the story is correct.
The NC system is being used to extort money from businesses to fight the opening of competing businesses!
Remove Jim Alger from the NC system!
The NC system is being used to extort money from businesses to fight the opening of competing businesses!
Remove Jim Alger from the NC system!
I'll just assume you got it wrong, cause that's the stupidist thing I've ever heard.
Zuma, just watch the video. It is the stupidest thing you ever heard, plus it is probably the most illegal. Just scroll past 11 minutes, you don't have to watch the whole thing. Don't you think that Alger is shady anyway?
You want some cheese to go with your whine?
Joe Barrett appeared on Alice, for God's sake! He obviously knows a lot about retailing and urban planning.
Let's give "Joe B." a chance to explain the Jim Alger/Do-It-Center controversy. He deserves it.
You want some cheese to go with your whine?
You want some corruption (Congress of Neighborhood Councils leader Jim Alger) to go with your ignorance (No 2 HD leader Joe Barrett)?
No 2 Home Depot Sunland and all of the the above are property of Do-It-Center, Inc. Copyright reserved.
But this idea is so ridiculous, it doesn't even matter. Let them pursue it...it will never be allowed. But it sounds good at the meeting, and gets people fired up, so fine.
Jim was talking about something that had already happened. It doesn't matter if it's "allowed," Jim did it anyway. Months ago!
Hello, Home Depot!
Just to be clear, cause I posted a dry, sense-of-humor comment, and sometimes the sarcasm can get lost in text, without the verbal cues:
So for the record:
I do not think it is proper, and I hope it would be illegal to have NC strike a deal with one retail outlet to do all their purchases, in exchange for some confusing deal where money is donated to a legal fund, and any left over goes back to the NC later. (Or whatever gobbely-gook was being spewed.)
A lot of inspiring speech may have been given, but that part does not compute in my ski cap.
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