A Zuma Dogg Roast of CD 11 City Councilman Bill Rosendahl

This is what happen when you attempt to restrict the citizens right to their First Amendment discourse.

2013 Mayoral Candidate David "Zuma Dogg" Saltsburg is in fine form at the expense of First Amendment denier CD 11 City Councilman Bill Rosendahl.

This latest from Zuma will become a City Clowncil parody classic.

Your thoughts ..............

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Councilman Parks to appear on Live LA Saturday Night Internet Talk Radio

 The hosts of LA Live Saturday Night, Frank Sheftel, Michael "Mayor Sam" Higby and David Hernandez.

CD 8 City Councilman Bernard Parks.

CD 8 City Councilman Bernard Parks takes his crusade against unjust redistricting to the internet talk radio airways this evening when he joins Frank Sheftel, David Hernandez and our own Michael "Mayor Sam" Higby for their weekly Live LA Saturday Night broadcast on the home of LA (internet)Talk Radio.

Tune in, whoops, link here at 8:00 P.M. this evening for the best 50 minutes of talk on LA politics from three upstanding members of the San Fernando Valley Community.

Your thoughts ..............

Scott Johnson in CD 14

CD 15 City Councilman Joe Buscaino: "The City Council is not the FCC" regarding KFI Talk Radio's John and Ken

CD 15 City Councilman Joe Buscaino common sense approach to no-binding resolutions.

The "Average Joe" recently elected to City Council via Council District 15 Joe Buscaino, is way above average in using new media to communicate with his constituents and beyond..And just today, Councilman Buscaino takes to Youtube to replay a brief interview with KABC 790 A.M. Talk Show Host Larry Elder that shows Councilman Buscaino's common sense approach to governing (... and an independent streak that is refreshing).

Councilman Buscaino, along with CD 2 City Councilman Mitch Englander took the side of the strict interpretation of the First Amendment when it comes to the radio airways, unlike the 13 other members of the City Clowncil Central Committee who spent valuable meeting time role playing Joseph McCarthy.

We hope to see more of this refreshing common sense talk from Councilman Buscaino as he grows into his new job. Judging from his weekly interactive newsletter he is heading in the right direction in constituent outreach and transparency in standing behind his decisions within the horseshoe.

Your thoughts ..............

Scott Johnson in CD 14

P.S. to the Average Joe, don't forget about the coments from the like of Bill Maher and Ed Schultz.   .

  

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Friday

 My brothers  and sisters in labor are to blame for this economic mess

In the City of Los Angeles, pink slips mean relocation to DWP at 25-50% more pay.

Since the start of the 21st Century, there have been those in the City of Los Angeles political circles who have never bought into the Parke Skelton crafted Antonio Villaraigosa Political Persona. The leader that could bring a diverse city together is really an angry man who lies about his own father. A loving family man is nothing more than a telebimbo-chasing Tonto. A progressive brother for labor in reality is an union buster when its come to reinventing his political image for the next run for public office. Make no doubt, there are countless examples that highlight the current political incarnation of Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa,, as someone who's only core value, is the self-preservation of Antonio Ramon Villar.

That said, we highlight the latest person or group to await betrayal via the "double-face Villar". City unions must of feign indignation at Mayor Villar's threat of massive layoffs in the upcoming 2012/2013 Budget (any layoffs planned for the mayor's staff? Stupid question). Labor leaders cringed at Mayor Villar assigning blame to his brothers and sisters for the current economic state of the city. Yet, some of those labor leaders knew back in 2001 that a Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa Administration could be a bad thing for Los Angeles and its labor friends.

Yet, when Antonio Villaraigosa became mayor in 2005, the potential for contract riches made many in the City of Los Angeles collective community, forget those issues of character that many had with the now current mayor. Six plus years later, as a city drifts endlessly in an ocean of economic stagnation in search of a land mass of economic renewal. A former labor brother turns on the latest group or person that stands in the way of his own latest political reincarnation that benefits only a former City Terrace resident named Antonoi Ramon Villar 

Your thoughts ...............

Scott Johnson in CD 14   

Another Installment of "Laurette Watch" via the 46th Assembly District Race

46th AD Candidate Laurette Healey balancing political options.

The latest "Activity Sheet (#3)" via the "Laurette Watch" Twitter Account.

Visual aid for question # 1 on Activity Sheet # 3.

Your thoughts ..............

Scott Johnson in CD 14

"Another Soulvine Thursday": Betty ponders Councilman Parks supposed love of Raves

Longtime South LA Newspaper Columnist Betty Pleasant blesses us with "Another Soulvine Thursday'. This week, Betty fails to utter any comments on her recently roasted, "foul mouth little short guy" City Clowncil Central Committee Strongman Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson. Instead its all about Parks and his supposed connection to Rave Concerts at the Coliseum. Also Betty has some choice comments for Congresswoman Laura Richardson, City Attorney Carmen Trutanich, and  Cical Rights Activist Eddie Jones.

Excerpts from Betty on Parks:

Now that six people connected to the Coliseum and/or its commission have been indicted by the grand jury for “grand theft by embezzlement,” much of what had me puzzled over the past couple of years is becoming clear.

For example, I could never figure out why Councilman Bernard Parks was so in love with those deadly, low-class, drug-infested, rowdy events called “raves” that were held in the Coliseum. A teenage girl died at one; the police hated them; politicians and community leaders assailed them; the residents in the neighborhood demonstrated against them, but Parks said they were wonderful things that provided jobs for his constituents. Light was shone on my confusion during Parks’ re-election campaign last year when everybody with a computer could see thatTodd DeStefano, Pasquale Rotella et al — the operators of these universally detested raves — were significant contributors to Parks’ re-election campaign. The anti-Parks forces went to town pointing this out, but Parks didn’t care and he kept on defending these events and, as a member of the Coliseum Commission, approving them despite the negative opinion the public held about them.

More from Betty next week ...............

Your thoughts ..............

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Thursday

What stories could all these Ex. CD 14 Staffers tell about their demanding Princeton Graduate boss?

......... and the list continues below.

46. Diego Contreras – Special Assistant

47. Deanna Kitamura – Legislative Deputy
48. Daitlin Cornuelle
49. Juanita Martinez, Field Deputy, Northeast
50. Hilda Carrillo
51. Wendy Carrillo - New Media Deputy
52. Adrien Lopez, - Field Deputy
53. Jim Omahen - Field Deputy, Northeast
54. Eva Camacho – Admin. Assistant
55. Edel Vizcarra – Planning Deputy
56. Jesse  Leon- Boyle Heights Field  Office  Director
..... and 57. Daniel Andalon-El Sereno Field Office

"The Society for Councilman Jose Huizar Ex-Staffers"

Shout out to the City Clowncil Central Committee unofficial historian CD 4 City Clowncilman Tom LaBonge, is the following list of aspiring public servants who just happen to seek employment with CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar, then flee for a better work work environment, an all time record for ex-staffers from one council office? ...... and the list just grew again as news leaked out of El Sereno that well-liked Daniel Andalon is moving to CD 1 City Clowncilman Ed Reyes staff. Why transfer from a just re-elected councilman staff that has long term job protection (as long as the work doesn't  conflict with your values) to a council staff that may change big time in 2013? Maybe balancing the demands of working for the ethically challenged Princeton Graduate, with conflicting personal values, created an "imbalance of being"?

** Position sword, fall forward.

For disgrace former Coliseum General Manager Pat Lynch, taking accountability for his actions was the easy thing to do, repay some cash ($385,000), stay out of jail.And about those nine other counts?

** OH MY GOD!! Its another City Controller Wendy "The Valley Greuel" audit/ campaign press release. In this latest Valley Greuel paper thin audit, she has an OH MY GOD fiscal moment seeking answers to the whereabouts of $7 Million dollars in petrol.

Your thoughts ..............

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Wednesday

 Meet the "Lil Tony" in me if you dare.

Mayor Villar, Pat McOsker and the LAFD Rank and File are not going to silence themselves.

Now the City Council knows the obvious.

If anyone has learned anything about the former "Tony Villar of City Terrace" in six-plus years as Mayor Antonoio Villaraigosa, don't "present contrary political witness" to the political facade refined daily by the  Mayor's image/ media team.

For United Firefighters of Los Angeles City (UFLAC) President Pat McOsker, this means that someone from the mayor's staff hinted strongly to mute his attacks on Mayor Villar's Fire Chief Brian Cumming's crafted (and much-maligned) response times stats to 911 calls.

Pat McOsker, like his brothers Tim, Mike and John, know well what its like to be on the receiving end of a "Team Villar" attack after years of association with the Hahn Family. Many local political observers including myself,  feel that the LAFD "brownouts" and follow-up service cut backs originated from the bad blood between Team Villar towards the McOskers.

... and judging from the mess that Mayor Villar has mired Los Angeles in for six-plus years, the McOskers can feel proud about their past endeavors. 

Your thoughts ..............

Scott Johnson in CD 14  

Its Magic Time at Chavez Ravine!!

"Move over Frank, its Magic Time at Chavez Ravine"

The Special Los Angeles relationship with a Michigan kid name Earvin who brought Magic (and championships) to the hardwood court, now enters another chapter as Earvin "Magic" Johnson nears becoming a part owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Statement below.  

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Frank McCourt Announce Agreement With Guggenheim Baseball Management

LOS ANGELES, March 27, 2012 – The Los Angeles Dodgers and Frank McCourt today announced an agreement under which Guggenheim Baseball Management LLC (“GBM”) will acquire the Los Angeles Dodgers for $2 billion upon completion of the closing process.  The purchasing group includes Mark R. Walter as its controlling partner, as well as Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Peter Guber, Stan Kasten, Bobby Patton and Todd Boehly.  Mr. McCourt and certain affiliates of the purchasers will also be forming a joint venture, which will acquire the Chavez Ravine property for an additional $150 million.

The Los Angeles Dodgers stated, “This transaction underscores the Debtors’ objective to maximize the value of their estate and to emerge from Chapter 11 under a successful Plan of Reorganization, under which all creditors are paid in full.”

Frank McCourt stated, “This agreement with Guggenheim reflects both the strength and future potential of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and assures that the Dodgers will have new ownership with deep local roots, which bodes well for the Dodgers, its fans and the Los Angeles community.  We are delighted that this group will continue the important work we have started in the community, fulfilling our commitment to building 50 Dream Fields and helping with the effort to cure cancer.”

Earvin “Magic” Johnson stated, “I am thrilled to be part of the historic Dodger franchise and intend to build on the fantastic foundation laid by Frank McCourt as we drive the Dodgers back to the front page of the sports section in our wonderful community of Los Angeles.”

Great Day in Los Angeles Sports History!

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Jimmy "PACman" Gomez leads the (PAC) money race in 51st AD Contest

"Jimmy "PACman" Gomez, the undisputed king of PAC/ Special Interest money in the 51st AD Race".

The latest financial filing period has passed as quick as a GPS readout on the latest "meet and greet" location for Riverside (via Echo Park) resident and 51st Assembly District Candidate Jimmy Gomez. Gomez can afford multiple GPS devices for his campaign team as he continues to fill the carpetbags with $$$$ of PAC dollars from various Special Interest groups statewide. The anointed candidate of the LA County Labor Federation has $283,863.70 in cash on hand. This is just less than three times the amount of Luis Lopez.

The Luis Lopez Campaign released the following statement on the latest financial data.

Today the campaign of Luis Lopez for Assembly announced that he had exceeded 800 donors in his fund-raising efforts. A native of his 51st Assembly District, encompassing Northeast Los Angeles and East L.A., Lopez has mobilized a broad base of community support in every district neighborhood. His campaign is tapping into residents' desire for a representative with a proven record of service and commitment to their concerns who will remain responsive to them.

In attracting more than 800 donors, and raising more than $200,000 overall, Lopez showed more than 90 percent of his dollars from individual people. That contrasts sharply with the campaign of rival Jimmy Gomez, which is bought and paid for by Sacramento PACs and special interests. Gomez relied on PACs for more than 50 percent of his funding. He also disclosed fewer than 20 in-district donors. Gomez' lack of backing from people within local neighborhoods highlights his failure to win support in the 51st District since parachuting into the community from Riverside County little more than a year ago. 

Lopez, as part of his success in exceeding 800 individual donors, also announced attaining more than 200 donors from his 51st District communities. Many of them are $25 and $50 contributors.

"In every neighborhood of my district, voters tell me they want a leader who will listen and respond to them and be their fighter in the legislature," said Lopez in conjunction with the announcement. "Distrust at outside interests dominating our campaigns goes hand in hand with dismay at Sacramento. I am not beholden to special interest donors or PACs. My only covenant will be with the voters of my district. And I will work hard to represent and get results for them." 

Arturo Chavez at Lincoln Heights Holiday Parade.

For Assemblyman Gil Cedillo District Director and Candidate Arturo Chavez, the haste to make up for campaign money embezzled by Democratic Treasurer Kinde Durkee, paid off in $50,000+ in contributions within the last three months. Despite the monetary gap, the Chavez Campaign can be buoyed by the fact that an AFSCME Poll commissioned on the behalf of the Gomez Campaign had Chavez in first place. Thus, the Chavez Campaign best hope to offset the Gomez Campaign's PAC advantage is his strong ties to Assemblyman Cedillo and the community.

Your thoughts ..............

Scot Johnson in CD 14 

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Tuesday

CD 11 City Councilman Bill Rosendahl and Zuma Dogg in more congenial times.

We start off this Tuesday morning with this bloggin public service announcement from 2013 Mayoral Candidate David "Zuma Dogg" Saltzburg.

Tune into TV 35, Tuesday at 10am, Wed at 10am, Fri at 10am...EVERY CITY COUNCIL MEETING at 10am, for the "Bill Rosendope Comedy Roast," during public comment. Have you HEARD Zuma Dogg's impersonation of Rosie? Wait till you hear what the community has to say about him. COPS not happy with him, either. His spineless, lack of leadership and constant fall-through is a REAL issue for them, from what I'm told.
MEANWHILE, thanks for confirming what I've been saying: DOWD/DOGG UNDER COUNCIL'S SKIN!

In an ideal Councilman Rosendahl world, crapping, urinating, camping and destroying public property, is a by-product of expressing your First Amendment rights, while highlighting the ills of a dysfunctional government at City Hall is grounds for expulsion.

Hecho En Mexico Restaurant. Boxed in on both sides by Academia Semillas del Pueblo properties. 

** Under the political radar to most is a growing controversy within the community of El Sereno. It appears that controversial educator Marcos Aguilar is bullying the owner of the well-liked restaurant "Hecho En Mexico" (the restaurant hosted President Barack H. Obama's sister during the 2008 Campaign and has sponsored numerous community events) over parking access near their respective properties. In recent years, Aguilar's Academia Semillas del Pueblo Charter School has purchase property directly on both sides of the long establish eatery. Complicating the situation is that Hecho En Mexico has a liquor license to sell beer, wine and liquor which makes you wonder what happen to the zoning process when Aguilar's non-profit purchase the properties (including the old El Sereno Library)?

Marcos to Huizar: "The Aztec Gods (with the help of my supporters campaign contributions) see a day when the city gives us "surplus property" on Elephant Hill for our Charter School".

After repeated complaints between Hecho and Academia over parking, Academia is now preparing to challenge the ABC renewal of Hecho's liquor license. Many in the El Sereno Community are questioning the actions of Marcos Aguilar considering that Hecho has been a good neighbor to the community and that the restaurant was established long before Academia set up its educational commune on another location further south on Huntington Drive.

But what is the real goal for Marcos Aguilar in his battle with Hecho En Mexico? Could it be that Marcos has his eyes set on "surplus city property" north of his current location? Its no secret in the El Sereno Community that Aguilar wants access to "open space". Early last decade, Aguilar tried securing open space at Debs Park for his initial charter school site but was rebuffed by community members. Currently, Aguilar's school has been working behind the scenes with SMMC/MRCA on education ideas for its just purchase five acre site on Elephant Hill. Could Aguilar crave asking the City of Los Angeles to allow his educational commune to relocate to the remaining "surplus property" on Elephant Hill, away from Huntington Drive? Thus, granting Aguilar his much sought after open space (at city cost) for furthering his connection to the Azteca Educational Gods?

Your thoughts..............

Scott Johnson in CD 14       

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Monday

Would CD 11 City Councilman dare restrict the public comment rights of "Gadflys"?

Si Se Puede!

Si Se Puede!

Even this blogger finds the historic chant catchy as we shut down City Hall today to celebrate the life of the late Cesar Chavez. Follow along as we together ponder bloggin topics on this day dedicated to "no grapes" and "no Illegals" as articulated by the labor organizer in his day of activism.

** CD 1 City Councilman Ed Reyes, CD 13 City Councilman Eric Garcetti and their comrades on the labor left thought last Friday would be a Si Se Puede day in stopping non-union Wal Mart from building a food only store near Chinatown. But Wal Mart pulled all the needed permits from the Building and Safety Department (with "In the shadows" approval of Mayor Antonio Villar?) before Councilman Reyes and Garcetti could get a vote on an interim control ordnance to halt Wal Mart.

** CD 11 Bill Rosendahl is looking for support of his Si Se Puede Moment to limit the free speech of Gadflys at City Hall. First question for Billie is what defines being  labeled a Gadfly? If that defines hundreds of protesters who camp out, urinate, crap on and destroy city property in the name of the 99%, then you have something. But if the likes of Zuma Dogg, Matt Dowd, Dr. Williams, John Walsh, and Wayne in Encino are the motivation for your blatant infringement of First Amendment rights, then expect a Si Se Puede moment from activists, in litigating the City of Los Angeles. 

More later in the day.

Your thoughts ..............

Scott Johnson in CD14   

"Sunday Blog Feature": HACLA Cuts Ribbon on its First Public Library in Ramona Gardens

 The reinvention of the Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) from a scandal plague agency into a public housing service provider, took a big step last Wednesday with the Grand Opening/ Ribbon Cutting of its first Public Library located on HACLA property in Ramona Gardens.

 HACLA C.O.O. Kent Simmons speaks during the opening ceremony. Representatives from Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard, City of Los Angeles Public Library, UCLA, LAPD, Barrio Action, SEA, Ramona Gardens RAC, City of Los Angeles Recreation and Parks, Scholastic Books were on hand for this historic event (** strangely, no one showed up from CD 14 Councilman Huizar's office)

 Various community collaborators join together in cutting the ribbon.

 Ramona Gardens RAC President Maggie Ortiz-Aguilar, Ramona Gardens Manager Georgina Garcia and Ramona Gardens Recreation Center Facility Director Debra Price share a piece of the ribbon. Ortiz-Aguilar shared these comments with KPCC Radio.

Maggie Aguilar, who has lived in the community for 45 years, says this is one step of many Ramona Gardens has taken in the right direction. 

"Ten years ago it was a really bad community," says Aguilar. "There was a lot of gangs and drugs and police and a lot of everything happening." 

But now? 

"It's beautiful now," she says. "You'll hear laughter. Kids playing. Kids riding their bicycles. Fathers playing with their kids. Throwing the football around. You can come out and barbecue without people messing with you or take something from you." 

 Library interior, more books are always appreciated.

HACLA  Commissioner Margarita Garr conducts the first "story time" within the new library.

Your thoughts ..............

Scott Johnson in CD 14. 

Dust Up over Office Location in the 46th Assembly District Race

Was today's Campaign Office Open House held outside the 46th Assembly District?

** Blogger's Note: How do you define yourself to voters in the democratic-packed 46th Assembly District Assembly Contest? For Charter School Executive Brian Johnson, its all about office location. As Adrin Nazarian wraps up his Campaign Office Open House, Johnson is trying to score political points by highlighting  that the location is supposedly outside the new assembly district boundary. Johnson also offers to play tour guide as he notes historical locations within the newly drawn assembly district. Just a preview whats to come when the gloves really come off (or get taken away by a former campaign consultant L.H.) in this newly created open seat---Scott Johnson   

Your thoughts ..............
Scott Johnson in CD 14

Is More Beer and Wines Sales Conducive to Women Health in Sensitive Communities?

They team up again. The latest collaboration between politico State Senator Kevin de Leon and connected non-profit Legacy LA.

Just over a week after a ground-breaking community summit on the troubling rise of beer, wine and liquor establishments in Boyle Heights, two supporters of expansion of corporate beer and wine sales via 7-Eleven, collaborate on a "Woman's Health Fair" near the Ramona Gardens Community this A.M.

.Senator Kevin de Leon and Legacy LA enjoying "the fruits of their labor" on the behalf of corporate beer and wine seller 7-Eleven.

The last we saw the collaboration of State Senator Kevin de Leon and Legacy LA was at a fundraiser for the connected non-profit, in which 7-Eleven was a partial sponsor. This came after the corporate beer and wine chain won approval for a second beer and wine license in Lincoln Heights and forced a much loved American Veteran survivor of the Cambodia "Killing Fields" to lose his American Dream of business ownership, to make way for a third 7-Eleven store in Lincoln Heights next to Lincoln Park.

Legacy LA supporter and former Ramona Gardens Resident Advisory Board Treasurer Liliana Martinez spoke on the behalf of Legacy LA and the Ramona Gardens Community at the 26:45 mark on the video above (with translation help from Councilman Huizar crony Margo Amador). Since then, she and other associates were forced to resigned from the Ramona Gardens RAC because of "financial irregularities".

As previously noted here at Mayor Sam, Martinez can be seen with Gonzalez and Ortega standing with her, at the 21:30 part of the video speaking on the behalf of the Ramona Gardens Community in support of 7-Eleven's efforts to secure a beer and wine license for its store on Broadway and Eastlake in Lincoln Heights. 

Its disturbing to review these videos and ponder how State Senator Kevin de Leon and Legacy LA's support of establishing more options for the purchase of beer and wine in sensitive communities such as Lincoln Heights, increases the chance that women will be prone to more acts of domestic abuse, rapes, robberies and other crimes. But then political and financial considerations has never been a priority when it comes to shilling for corporate beer and wine, right Senator de Leon and Lou Calanche?  

Happy Birthday to Larger-Than-Life City Activist Jose "Flounder" Aguilar!!

 This blogger would be callously remissed if he did not take the bloggin time to wish one of the City of Los Angeles larger-than-life political activists (in body and heart), who labors on three neighborhood councils, travels the city from cause to cause and is the undisputed heavyweight champion of information/campaign material dissemination Jose "Flounder" Aguilar, a hearty Mayor Sam Birthday!! 

Some may take issue with me for bestowing the "Flounder" moniker on my dear friend, but innocuous nicknames are better than some of the things stated last evening by members of the City Clowncil Central Committee about their colleagues. Plus, I am certain that regular readers of Mayor Sam in the vastness of the political cybersphere, have coined other explicit phrases for Jose, especially those within the machine at 200 Spring Street. 

Wherever Jose is at this late hour (posting campaign signs? Evening snack?), we are sure that his response to this surprise Mayor Sam B-day greeting, would run along Flounder's famous line in Animal House, "HHHEEEEYYY, isn't this great!"

When this blogger first met Jose, my initial reaction was along the line of Flounder's faternity brothers, (only I threw verbal and bloggin barbs, not beer bottles) When Jose flirted with embacing the machine during the last CD 14 Elections, it was tough love and a bond of activist brotherhood that keep our friendship together.

Thus once again, I'm sure that I speak for many across the political landscape in wishing my close friend Jose "Flounder" Aguilar, a blogging great birthday!

Your thoughts ..............

Scott Johnson in CD 14  

The Machine Can't Buy Jimmy Gomez Polling Direction In 51st AD Race

The Machine behind the latest carpetbag candidate in Northeast L.A.

Can GPS help Riverside resident (via Echo Park) Jimmy Gomez find upward polling direction (and neighborhoods) in the 51st AD Race?

Some words of advise for 51st Assembly District Candidate Jimmy Gomez. "Loose Lips Sink (Political) Ships".

We say this because within the last few days, some of your new found friends within the assembly district of your latest (political) residency, have been chatting up a storm about you.

It seems that despite the hundreds of thousands of dollars of union money and the long list of endorsements of elected officials (who want the money promise to them as a condition of their support ........., allegedly), the voters of the 51st Assembly District are not keen on voting for another political outsider installed by the "machine".

We can understand if a "political panic attack" got the worst of you as you recited an AFSCME poll that had yourself in third place behind front runner Arturo Chavez and local political newcomer Luis Lopez respectively.

Continuing in the spirit of (political) understanding, we can feel your (political) pain as you regurgitated an AFSCME poll that shows up no where in your financial reports to the Secretary of State. Geez!! AFSCME spends a good chunk of undisclosed dues money ascertaining whether their brothers and sisters (at the County Labor Federation) latest sell job is going as plan and you "out" the details before undertaking the required reporting protocols. Novice (political) mistake indeed!

In extending an open hand in friendship, let me share some (political) advise with you, the newly constituted 51st AD has two qualified "home grown candidates" in this election cycle that voters can relate to. Just as in the recent CD 15 race, the voters of the 51st AD have an extended personal (and political) relationship with Arturo Chavez and Luis Lopez. They were born here, work here, vote here and aspire to represent their true community in public office. No amount of machine money going to undercut those ties in 2012.

Thus Jimmy, welcome to the 51st AD, take the time to meet your new Echo Park neighbors and establish some true (not political) community ties before cutting in front of our home-grown political talent.

Your thoughts ..............
Scott Johnson in the 51st AD

The Politics of "Taking Credit" in Council District 14

 Taking credit for endeavors initiated by constituents and other politicos is a daily task for CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar. In Boyle Heights, residents are recipients of repeated messages on the billions of dollars of capital improvements made in their neighborhood in recent years ..... via Councilman Jose Huizar. Tomorrow in Eastern El Sereno, Councilman Jose Huizar will once again tout, "in large part" his support for a new pocket park.  

The idea for the pocket park was the solitary idea of Concern Neighbor of El Sereno Founder Val Marquez. Marquez had grown weary of seeing, day after day, the unkempt condition of the Cal Trans lot that now will become the newest park land addition in park-starved El Sereno. Yet, after many years of addressing emails, hosting meetings, lobbying elected officials and galvanizing community support, what show of appreciation does Marquez get from Councilman Jose Huizar? None. Reading the email blast below, you can get the perception that Councilman Huizar, with a little help from constituents, city agencies and other organizations, was the brain child behind this latest green space addition.

Come Celebrate New El Sereno
Recreation Area Saturday

Open House and BBQ for new green space being built

Councilmember José Huizar invites you to an Open House and BBQ for a new recreation area that is being built for the El Sereno community, located on the corner of Alhambra Avenue and Concord Avenue. (only the Councilman can formally invite you to an event in CD 14)

The new green space, which will eventually include a children's garden and playground, is coming to our neighborhood thanks in large part to Councilmember Huizar ( kinda presumptive to claim a large part of the credit), who helped secure funding for the space.

Special thanks also goes out to Department of Recreation and Parks and the local community (how about mentioning Val Marquez by name?) for their assistance in creating a new, green space for El Sereno families.

Come visit, enjoy some good food and get the latest updates on this new recreational area the community "helped" (just help Councilman?) design.

What: Open House & BBQ New El Sereno Recreation Area 

Where: Corner of Alhambra Ave. and Concord Ave. 

When: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday, March 24, 2012

REFRESHMENTS & BBQ 

will be provided from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more information, please contact the El Sereno CD 14 office at (323) 226-1646. 

Special Thanks To:

BBQ: LA-32 Neighborhood Council

Fliers: Concerned Neighbors of El Sereno & El Sereno Graphics

Refreshments: Bank of the West

City of Los Angeles

Department of Rec & Parks

Your thoughts ..............

Scott Johnson in CD 14 

Morning Briefs on the "Roasted" Los Angeles Political Machine for Friday

 City Clowncil Central Committee Dictator Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson.

Dictator Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson in Roastee High Chair via the City Maven.

Not wanting to take a hit on my EBT Card balance, this blogger and apparently City Councilman Bernard Parks and colleague City Councilwoman Jan Perry did not attend last evening's 15th annual Los Angeles Political Roast benefiting the American Diabetes Association. The event, hosted by lobbyists Harvey Englander and Arnie Berghoff and Councilman Mitch Englander, raised more than $500,000, including $25,000 from Westfield and $10,000 each from AEG, Arnie Berghoff & Associates, Clear Channel Airports, Cisco Systems, Englander Knabe & Allen, the Los Angeles County Disposal Association, Noresco, Oracle America, Recurrent Energy, Wells Fargo, and Mitch Englander and his wife, as noted by the Alice "The City Maven" Walton.

Coming two days after the City Clowncil Central Committee assumed role playing thirteen Joseph McCarthys (minus level headed Mitch Englander and Joe Buscaino) searching for hate speech in each syllable of dialog at KFI 640 A.M. The same politicos turned out to roast LA Wave Newspaper Columnist Betty Pleasant's "little short guy" Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson.

Again courtesy of the City Maven ,we highlight some of the "material" from last night's roast (** Disclaimer!! White Republicans, Uncle Tom Latinos, Blacks, Koreans and Conservative Talk Show Hosts should not replicate these comments in the course of daily dialog within the City of Los Angeles, or risk non-binding sanctions from the City Clowncil Central Committee).

From the mouth of Mayor Antonio Villar: “Is Chief Cummings here yet? We called him five minutes ago. Late again.” The Family of El Sereno's Luis Gonzalez may have a hard time finding the punch line in Mayor Villar's joke regarding his LAFD enabler.

Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson speaks: Wesson supports same-sex marriage because “motherf...ers deserve to have mother-in-laws like everybody else.” What is said at a roast, stays at the roast, ..... unless you are a republican.

From the 15 Promises Herb Wesson Made to Become Council President (as presented by Dennis Zine and Wendy Greuel): 3.If elected controller, Dennis Zine’s budget will include funds for “pole-sters.” One can see a loan for "The Frisky Kitty" in the near future. 4.As the #3 on council, Tom LaBonge will also get to sit in the big boy chair, and public speakers will be required to say what high school they attended. Look what a LAUSD High School Education has done for the good fortunes of CD 4. Then this zinger directed at Jan Perry. 9. By putting USC in the Ninth District, Wesson promised Jan Perry some Trojans while she gets screwed. Laughs now, lawsuits coming.

Thus, another night of double standard political comedy is a wrap.

Your thoughts ..............

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Larry Elder on City Council Selective Censorship

The LA City Clowncil solved all of LA's problems and found a little extra time on their hand - so they decided to vote to ban Rush Limbaugh and KFI's John and Ken.

KABC host Larry Elder Facebook'ed up the following observations:

Hey, LA City Council, what about 'hate speech" on Spanish language radio? I hear that it's FAR more course and vulgar than local English language talk.

The normally reasonable--for a dem-- L.A. Councilman Dennis Zine, voted to condemn local talk radio. Nada about Maher, Garofolo, Moore, etc. C'mon, Zine!

LA City Council passes resolution condemning demeaning talk radio--gave examples, but Maher's use of the "c' word for Palin did not make the cut.

Fourth Quarter Officeholder Account Reports for City of Los Angeles Elective Officials

State of California FPPC 460 Reporting Form.

** Blogger's Notes: In the spirit of openness and transparency, Mayor Sam continues its quarterly endeavor to provide financial information on the elective officials of the City of Los Angeles via the Ethics Commission. Below we link to the Fourth Quarter Officeholder Accounts and offer germane comments on the financial data----Scott Johnson.

Mayor Antonio Villar ** Port of Los Angeles pays for airline upgrade in Chima. Nothing like flying in style,

City Attorney Carmen Trutanich ** Whats with all the overdraft charges?

City Controller Wendy Greuel ** Greuel owes The Valley Greuel $8,300+.

CD 1 City Councilman Ed Reyes  ** $11,000+ in outstanding debts.

CD 2 City Councilman Paul Krekorian ** Nice little donation to People for Parks.

CD 3 City Councilman Dennis Zine ** Ho hum report (Can I say "ho hum"?).

CD 4 City Councilman Tom LaBonge ** Raised $21,000+ in contributions last quarter 

CD 5 City Councilman Paul Koretz ** Donated money to both Laurette Healey and Andrew Lachman in 46th AD Race,

CD 6 City Councilman Tony Cardenas ** Cardenas the top council debtor at $26,000+. 

CD 7 City Councilman Richard Alarcon ** Does Alarcon have to file for CD 2?

CD 8 City Councilman Bernard Parks ** $13,000+ in outstanding bills to the Sutton Legal Group.

CD 9 City Councilwoman Jan Perry ** Rising money and debt to Kaufman for legal fees.

CD 10 City Councilman Herb Wesson ** Not much action via Michael Bai, Deron Williams still waiting for his cash.

CD 11 City Councilman Bill Rosendahl ** Donations to various progressive groups.

CD 12 City Councilman Mitch Englander ** Still raising money.

CD 13 City Councilman Eric Garcetti ** Spent $25,000 for poll.

CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar ** One on one staff meals at the Pacific Dining Car. $19,000+ in the red.

CD 15 City Councilman Joe Buscaino (Janice Hahn) ** Babs Hahn last report. $10,000+ in the red.

Your thoughts .............

Scott Johnson in CD 14