Early Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Wednesday

Page 1 of Koreatown Activists Lawsuit against the City of Los Angeles over Redistricting 2012.

Great early morning to all as we quickly get started on a news pack August 1, 2012.

** As we first reported here at Mayor Sam, Koreatown Activists filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn the final backroom-drawn boundaries agreed upon by the City o Los Angeles Redistricting Committee. With the first of what could become multiple lawsuits on Redistricting 2012 on file as of yesterday, you can bet that City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson will not be discussing his alleged role in the Redistricting backrooms anytime soon (unless under oath).

** Former SEIU 6434 General Manager Tyrone Freeman is looking at alot of non-union time making license plates as a Federal Grand Jury returned multiple indictments against LA County Board of Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas favorite ex. union strongman. According to the indictments, Freeman and wife live the high life on the backs of low-paid union members dues. Many observers are wondering if Freeman will sing regarding what was an alleged plan to raise union dues and for workers to support the campaign of now Board of Supervisor Member Ridley Thomas?

** CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar was successful in getting a vote on the March ballot to create a special downtown tax district to finance his Broadway Choo Choo. But as Hillel Aron reports in the "Weekly of Record", will downtown residents want to pay more taxes when many are "under water" with their respective mortgages?  

** The political office hopping of currently CD 2 City Councilman Paul Krekorian, will remain on hold as the first full term CD 2 City Councilman announces that he is not running for City Attorney. BTW, great show of discipline by Krekorian's staffers not to comment on this issue when asked in a City Hall elevator.

** July 31 was deadline day for municipal candidates to file their latest fundraising reports with the Ethics Commission. In the 2013 Mayoral Contest, City Controller Wendy "The Valley Greuel" and CD 13 City Councilman Eric Garcetti, were mere hundreds of dollars apart at the $2.2 Million dollar mark. Look tomorrow before our report on the 2013 money race.

** City Controller Candidate Dennis "The Valley Zine" is puffing out his chest again in indignation of city employees who are watching the London Olympics on city computers during work time. Is that me or do I here the political sirens of the ambulance-chasing auditor Wendy "The Valley Greuel"?

** Saving the best laugh for last, Ron Kaye has his thoughts on Yahoo's "Villar for President" story, but the City Terrace native is not without ambition. 

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14                                            

Unions and Pot?

Are Pot Shops aligning with Local 770 union in a refferendum campaign to overturn LA's medical marijuna ban?

In what appears to be a joint effort, ASA (Americans for Safe Access) are holding an emergency meeting this Wednesday afternoon at the offices of UFCW Local 770 with owners of the pre-ico pot shops in order to plan and fund a referendum campaign to repeal the recent ordinance voted on by City Council to ban storefront dispensaries. The pre-ico's are concerned that the post-ico pot shops could take over the effort and torpedo the campaign. By partnering with the UFCW it could tap into the unions vast resources. The UFCW have already embraced the pot shops by creating a Medical Cannabis Division.

It appears that ASA is attempting to scare owners into funding a referendum effort as a "last ditch" attempt to keep there pot shops open.

Without any legal challenges or court injunctions the city's ordinance to close the more then 1000 storefront dispensaries that have proliferated in the city of Los Angeles will come 30 days after the ordinance is signed by the mayor. When questioned about access to medical marijuana city attorney Jane Usher assured the city council that exemptions were in place that would allow patients to continue to have access to medical marijuana through healthcare facilities, hospices, eldercare centers, and could cultivate collectively in groups of three or less. She also claimed the label of the ordinance as a "ban on marijuana" was a label given to the motion by the media and was a misnomer as marijuana would still be available to the patients of Los Angeles.

Let's see if the powers of the mighty local 770 along with the joint efforts of ASA and pre-ico marijuana dispensaries can collectively raise the money needed to run a credible referendum campaign, or if all there efforts will go up in smoke.

Mayor Sam Exclusive: Council President Wesson discusses 2012 Redistricting with African-American Clergy, Part 5

The last part of Mayor Sam's Multi-Part Series on City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson discussing Redistricting 2012 with members of the African-American Clergy.

In Part 5, City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson explains why his city council colleagues worked behind close doors to move the Santa Barbara Plaza from Councilman Parks CD 8 to CD 10. This brief video clip gives you a quick expose what Redistricting 2012 was all about, dividing the spoils among like-minded allies.

The former Santa Barbara Plaza now Marlton Square.

City Council President Herb Wesson discussing why Santa Barbara Plaza/ Marlton Square was added to CD 10. 

Simple question for business owners, who would you rather have as a council person to help your business grow? A labor left ally in City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson or a true pro-business council person Bernard Parks? 

If what City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson is telling the African-American Clergy in the video clip above is true, somewhere, in a undisclosed backroom, the twelve other members of the city council along with Wesson, decided that for you without your input.

Its clear in this clip that Redistricting 2012 was not just about redrawing council district boundaries to ensure that the many City of Los Angeles ethnic enclaves were guarantee an inclusive voice at City Hall. More important was the need to divide the economic spoils among the power brokers in the backroom dealings that have become to symbolize Redistricting 2012.

...... and if you believe the speculation of some in the Korean American Community, maybe another reason why CD 10 now includes parts of the Crenshaw Mall and Marlton Square is that Council President Mini Amin Wesson has "innovated techniques" to create revenue streams to sustain his political agenda, as the video below will attest to?

Koreatown Activist Jimmy Chai speaks on alleged corruption in CD 10.

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

Mayor Sam Exclusive: Korean American Coalition to file suit against City of LA over Redistricting 2012 on Tuesday

 ** In a Mayor Sam Exclusive, we have learned that a Korean-American Coalition will file suit on Tuesday seeking to overturn the boundaries approved during the just completed controversial Redistricting 2012 proceedings. Asian American make up more than 15% of the City of Los Angeles population but no asians have served on the City Council since Mike Woo. We can also report that this lawsuit will not be the only one forthcomingin the days ahead---Scott Johnson  

 "Hands across Koreatown"

 "The Korean Spring in Los Angeles Politics"

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

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Monday

LA County Board of Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas (left) with former SEIU 6434 Leader Tyrone Freeman (second from left).

Former SEIU 6434 Leader Tyrone Freeman's "legal day of reckoning" is near.

For current LA County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, the news via Daily News Rick Orlov's "Monday Tipoff Column", that Freeman will most likely face a Federal Grand Jury Indictment this week, should cause him pause considering this past scheme ...........

Controversy surrounding a powerful Los Angeles labor leader threatened Thursday to alter the landscape beneath the county's hottest political race, which has been fueled by record amounts of union spending.Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors candidate Bernard C. Parks, who trailed in the June primary, challenged opponent Mark Ridley-Thomas to return more than $4.5 million raised on his behalf by a labor alliance that included beleaguered union leader Tyrone Freeman.Parks, a Los Angeles city councilman, also noted that county officials have accused Freeman's local of raising more than $5 million in illegitimate union dues from low-wage home healthcare workers, a charge that union attorneys have flatly denied.

We left a message with Supervisor Ridley-Thomas press person Lisa Richardson seeking comment.

Continuing with Orlov, the veteran City Hall beat writer reports that Andrea AlarCON will not carry on the family brand at City Hall. DONE staffer Grayce Liu has been picked by Mayor Antonio Villar to replace B.H. Kim as the General Manager of the Neighborhood Council oversight agency..

Of interest to LAUSD observers is the possible CD 6 candidacy of School Board Member Nury Martinez  If current CD 6 City Councilman Tony Cardenas is elected to Congress and Martinez seeks to replace him, the race to replace Martinez at LAUSD is sure to draw major UTLA resources , in the attempt to regain control of the Board of Education. Will Louie Pugliese seek one more time to get elected to a Board of Educators?

** We hear at Mayor Sam that a lawsuit may be filed within the next 24-48 hours which could have major political repercussions at City Hall. More on that later today.

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

Help a Eastside Community Role Model/Leader Louie Moreno in his Time of Need

Help a great member of the Eastside Community.

On this Sunday, we take a break from our normal political coverage and ask for your help in assisting a great community friend/ role model/ leader in his personal time of need.

Louie Moreno is well known in the Eastside Sports Community and City Wide via his Sports Rap Up Program on the City of LA's Channel 35. In addition, Louie has MC many community events in CD 14 and is a sought out figure when it comes to promoting the community's big sporting events (Roosevelt vs. Garfield's Eastside Classic).

But what bear witnessing on this Sunday is his countless acts of giving back to the community beyond what he highlights on his show.

Moreno each year organized a toy giveaway at the former Edwards Theater in Alhambra during Christmas time. He personally provided hundreds of toy vouchers for needy children in the Ramona Gardens Community and other Eastside neighborhoods. 

Just last year Louie and the owner of Steven's Steak House Jimmy F. hosted a fundraiser for a child with cancer during one of the regular Monday Night Football Parties at the Commerce Landmark.

Now, with health issues causing economic complications, a man who has given of himself with no conditions, is in need.

Please help by donating and attending this event for a great friend of the Eastside Community.

Respectfully,

Scott Johnson in CD 14 

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Friday

...... and the cost in campaign contributions to buy your local 2013 mayoral candidate ....

..... like "Eric Garshady", seen here shilling for the re-election of fellow Wal-Mart money recipient CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar.

The bloggin love of highlighting political hypocrisy!

Before the 2013 Mayoral Election process runs its course sometime in the early summer of 2013, we will have been treated to countless act of political hypocrisy in the name of garnering favor with the voters. But more important, to reap the windfall of campaign cash to finance the facade that will hopefully curry favor with big donors.

For former City Council President and out-going CD 13 representative Eric Garcetti, his campaign facade of being a loyal brother to the labor left progressive faction took a well mark hit in today's David Zahniser piece in the "Old Gray Hag on Spring Street" and the cost? Both small and big.

Small would describe the $100 dollar donation from Wal-Mart's local director of community affairs Javier Angulo. But big is this slapback from Los Angeles County Labor Federation Leader (and friend of Tony V.) Maria Elena Durazo.

"It is one thing if a Wal-Mart cashier or warehouse worker makes a contribution to a candidate," Durazo said in a statement. "It's a different kind of political contribution altogether when a senior-level representative of Wal-Mart who is actively organizing for a Wal-Mart store in Chinatown writes the check. Wal-Mart money is Wal-Mart money." 

 But lets not forget what "close friend" of Durazo helped get city approval for Wal-Mart's proposed Chinatown location. Hypocrisy reigns.

....... and this on CD 14 Councilman Huizar and City Council Wannabee Assemblyman Felipe "Mini Padilla" Fuentes.

Angulo, the Wal-Mart representative, has also donated in the past year to Councilman Jose Huizar and Assemblyman Felipe Fuentes (D-Sylmar), who is running for the seat being vacated by Councilman Richard Alarcon. Garcetti called last month for L.A. politicians to give back any Wal-Mart money they have received.

Hypocrisy reigns supreme!!

** Other News: 


** In the democratic jihad that is the 30th Congressional District contest between Congressmens Howard Berman and Brad Sherman, Team Sherman has released a poll that shows their candidate leading by 17%. Being the trailing candidate has prompted Team Berman to go negative. Will Sherman unleash the Gatto Truthers in response?


** Various democratic clubs are stepping back from making endorsements in the 50th Assembly District runoff between Besty Butler and Richard Bloom. Why you may ask?  Its in the numbers according to the "Weekly of Record's" Patrick Range McDonald.

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

Mayor Sam Exclusive: Council President Wesson discusses 2012 Redistricting with African-American Clergy, Part 4

Mayor Sam's Multi-Part Series on City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson discussing Redistricting 2012 with members of the African-American Clergy

In Part 4, City Council President Herb Wesson passes the blame/ passes the buck to another City Council member ( CD 12's Mitch Englander according to sources), when confronted by an African-American Clergy member about not allowing clergy to speak on Redistricting 2012.

   Did City Council President Herb Wesson order colleague CD 12 City Councilman Mitch Englander to forward the Motion, not allowing members of the African- American Clergy to comment on the effects of Redistricting 2012?

Member of the African-American Clergy confronts City Council President Herb Wesson. 

Make no doubt that City Council President Herb Wesson will never be mistaken as a Harry Truman Democrat.

Unlike the last good Democratic President of the United States who was famous for his "The Buck Stops Here" placard on the Oval Office desk, Council President "Mini Amin" Wesson will waste no time in passing the buck/ blame when it affects his political standing, as the video above will attest to.


When confronted by an esteem member of the African-American Clergy on why their comments were not allowed during the Redistricting 2012 vote at City Hall, "Mini Amin" Wesson could only reply "it wasn't me".


"Mini Amin" Wesson goes on to state that another council person had called for the Motion to end discussion as a message to the "two other council persons" that debate was over and the " new backroom created, city council boundaries" (blogger comment) would be approved without further public input.


So who was that council person that Council President "Mini Amin" Wesson order, whoops, took the imitative to motion for an end to public input regarding Redistricting 2012? According to sources, it was West Valley RINO CD 12 City Councilman Mitch Englander..


In closing, the irony here as members of the African-American Clergy were denied their right to speak on the "soon to be litigious" Redistricting 2012 proceedings, "Mini Amin Wesson" was allowing both sides, ample time to comment on this week's controversial vote to ban front-door Marijuana Dispensaries in the City Of Los Angeles.


Your thoughts ..............
Scott johnson in CD 14  

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Thursday

2013 Mayoral Candidate CD 13 City Councilman Eric Garcetti finds happiness in the sewer of campaign fundraising.

Its almost campaign fundraising report time again at the Ethics Commission (July 31) and "Team Garcetti" has called for the tote ................ $2,2 Million Dollars!! (dancing breaks out on the Jewish branch of the Garcetti Family Tree).

As the "Weekly of Record's" Gene Maddaus notes this early cash haul from Hollywood types, lawyers, developers and others will enable Team Garcetti to buy T.V. time to connect with his "Citywide Family".

Regarding the fundraising progress of the other candidates, Wendy "The Valley Greuel's" Campaign states that they will be "competitive" with Team Garcetti (but then you must equate in Consultant John Shallman's proclivity in spending monetary resources which means that the Valley Greuel's campaign is at a disadvantage). Meanwhile City Councilperson Jan Perry will come in at $1.2 Million followed by Team Kevin James further behind (with matching funds yet to be tap).

One side bar of interest is this from Maddaus regarding the fictional "President Paul Garcetti".

Scanning through the list contributors, it appears that Hollywood likes Garcetti, especially the TV folks. Contributors include one James Kimmel, listed as a "TV Show Host"; Adam Carolla, "TV Personality"; producer Steven Bochco, and David Nevins, the CEO of Showtime. On that subject, is it just a coincidence that the USA Network has a series on which the fictional president is named Paul Garcetti? 

Flashback, former City Attorney Rocky Delgadillo's "Team 1600" was not fiction.

** The "Weed Leaf of Record's" Dennis "the Bong Comandante" Romero reports that the Medical Marijuana cravers are mounting a signature drive to place "Measure Ganga" on the March, 2013 Ballot. Consider this, they need only to find 27,425 register, pot lovin voters to place "Measure Ganga" on the March Ballot.

** An "Oh Mario y Maribel" Update: City of San Fernando City Councilwoman Maribel "Sancha" De La Torre will be arraigned today for her "Act of Rage" against former fling and Councilman Mario "Tonto" Hernandez. Since "Sancha's" incident at "Tonto's" home the former political twosome have dropped their respective restraining orders against one another. A political making up in progress?

ANOTHER SOULVINE THURSDAY

 Longtime South L.A. Newspaper Columnist Betty Pleasant.

In this week's edition of the Soulvine, Betty highlights the next generation of "Ridley-Thomas" cutting their political teeth. HERE’S ANOTHER ONE — Comes now another Ridley-Thomas. No, it’s not Mark and it’s not Avis — it’s Sebastian, one of the couple’s 24-year-old twin sons. Sebastian Ridley-Thomas is in San Bernardino directing the campaign of Cheryl Brown, publisher of the Black Voice News, who is running for the new 47th Assembly District seat over there. Brown is a native of Los Angeles who has spent much of her adult life in San Bernardino. 

Sunland-Tujunga Launches Food Truck Fest; Spurs Local Debate; Area Restauranteur Comes Out Swinging in Defense of the Event

Joselito's Mexican Food

Recently, the issue of food trucks, one that often stirs strong emotions on both sides of the fence in the City of Angels, has made it's most recent venue that of the idyllic foothill community of Sunland-Tujunga.

About a month ago, leaders from the local chamber of commerce organized and launched a weekly Wednesday night food truck fest that from all appearances seems to have taken off like wildfire. The number of trucks participating has quickly doubled and participant estimates are nearing 5000 diners or more.

Despite the popularity with the local rank and file, a portion of the business community and other activists have had a near visceral reaction to the event, sparking weeks of wars on local Facebook pages. Newly re-assigned City Councilman Richard Alarcon, at a "meet and greet" even held on Tuesday evening has pledged to review the issue as it is Alarcon's fear the food trucks are "dividing the community." A more reasoned position may be that the food trucks are dividing the Facebook community, but we digress...

Read more »

Mayor Sam Exclusive: Council President Wesson discusses 2012 Redistricting with African-American Clergy, Part 3

Mayor Sam's Multi-Part Series on City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson discussing Redistricting 2012 with members of the African-American Clergy.

In Part 3, did City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson "bear false witness in the House of God" regarding neighboring Councilpersons Parks and Perry? Further, could a future legal proceeding under discovery, want to know what the other twelve councilpersons were seeking from the reigning City Council President?

From the LA Weekly. "What spoils were the various City Council members seeking from their reigning President Herb Wesson?

In this video clip, City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson attempts to counter the premise of Dr. Davis that African-American Council Districts lost assets during Redistricting 2012. Also take note of Wesson's comment regarding the requests of the twelve other councilperson and his gain of assets from CD 8. Then there is something about the LA Live Complex being moved and then put back in CD 9.

Memo to my Baptist Brother Herb Wesson,

Paraphrasing your comments from Part 1 of these video clips of your "Q and A" with members of the African-American Clergy regarding the soon to become the litigious Redistricting 2012 proceedings, "I am you and you are I", when it comes to our respective Baptist upbringings. Further, I, like you, agree that there are two sides to an issue, especially in the political world. You, like myself are most likely well verse in the Ten Commandments, especially the commandment about "Thou shall not bear false witness against thy neighbor" (.... or fellow African-American City Council colleagues).

That said Brother Herb, this fellow Baptist must take you to task for some of your questionable  comments, especially when made in a House of God, but accord you the respect of giving your side of the story'

First Brother Herb, you stated that partly because of your diminutive, solitary efforts, the AEG LA Live Complex was returned to within the new CD 9 boundaries after your city council colleagues had sought to move it elsewhere. But this initial draft map from Febuary 15, 2012 contradicts your comments.

Care to give your side of the story Brother Herb? 

Second Brother Herb, paraphrasing your comments about single-handedly protecting the assets of the African-American Community while balancing the "requests" of the other twelve council members who had come to you (included one unelected candidate Joe Buscaino). How were these redistricting requests process? In a backroom under the guidance of former staffer, turned Redistricting Commission Executive Director Andrew Westall? Can we petition records of these 'requests" under the California Public Records Act? Will you elaborate on these "requests', "if served", in a future court proceeding (or plural form?)?

Care to give your side of the story Brother Herb?

Third Brother Herb, you stated that those in the neighboring Eighth Council District who wanted to become part of CD 10, did under their own accord. Meanwhile, those who wanted to stay in CD 8, were left as is when the final boundaries were approved. Further, you stated that the Crenshaw Plaza Mall was left intact in CD 8. But this passage from the Downtown News about "the cleaving of the Baldwin Hills-Crenshaw Plaza Mall into two districts and the comedic response from Councilman Bernard Parks, again, highlight contradictions in your remarks to the members of the clergy.

” He was harsher a week later when he noted that redistricting cleaved the Baldwin Hills-Crenshaw Plaza mall into two districts. Referring to the diminutive council president, Parks wrote, “Councilmember Herb Wesson and his ‘non-tourage’ actually drew the lines to ensure businesses like Macy’s and Buffalo Wild Wings would be split from the rest of the shopping center and placed into his district. I don’t know… maybe he likes short ribs.” 

Care to give your side of the story Brother Herb?

In closing Brother Herb, we share the same desires to look forward to a better tomorrow, but we both know that there will come a day when we must stand before our maker and atone for our time on this earth. The question for you Brother Herb is whether your comments before the members of the clergy in a House of God, will prompt a summons to stand before a jury of your peers, before answering to the highest order? 


Care to respond Brother Herb?

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Morning Brief on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Hump Day

CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar, the man who ended store front Medical Pot Shops.

** A Bloggin Disclaimer: The following comments may bring on a sudden bout of heavy breathing and clutching of the heart for regular readers of Mayor Sam. Have your bloggin Defib Machine set to on in case of a sudden need to shock youself back to political reality---Scott Johnson.

"CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar did the right thing in seeking a ban on store front Medical Marijuana shops" (the bloggin 911 switchboard just went crazy here at Mayor Sam).

Let it be stated that at 8:50 A.M. on July 25, 2012, this CD 14 blogger found an area of political agreement with his Princeton Graduate, Dear Charro City Council Representative.

Why? First, lets not be in denial that the City Council (including Huizar) deserves the majority of the blame for the proliferation of Medical Marijuana outlets within the last few years. But also the lack of cohesive state and federal guidelines create legal road blocks that stifled efforts to craft governing codes to regulate dispensaries. Until the state and federal courts can create the legally-binding foundation that will be the basis for regulating Medical Marijuana, the City Council was right in voting to approve Councilman Huizar's Motion.

For Councilman Huizar, the political capital he gained with the passage of his Pot Shop Ban should now be put to use in dealing with the proliferation of another dangerous substance, that of beer, wine and liquor outlets within his own council district. The dangers associate with alcohol and driving for example, were brought nearly to his own front door steps in a recent double-fatality crash that involved an alleged DUI driver being chased by police.    

Councilman Huizar can show political consistency by initiating a moratorium on new beer, wine and liquor licenses within CD 14. Further, he can take a stand against the proliferation of corporate beer and wine outlets (7-Eleven) by opposing the proposed 7-Eleven outlet near Cal State LA. Over time just as he seeks to lower the number of Medical Pot outlets, Councilman Huizar should also seek to roll back the number of beer, wine and liquor licenses within CD 14, in his remaining time in office.

 Councilman Huizar re-election sign next to 7-Eleven neon marquee.

Remember Councilman Huizar, two innocent people were killed near your home due to the abuse of alcohol. Thus, lets not forget that regulating outlets that sell alcohol is just as paramount as bring order to the issue of Medical Marijuana.

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Do You Feel Stupid? The LA City Council Thinks You Are!

BREAKING NEWS - sort of - The City Council votes to outlaw medical marijuana shops in LA.  The whole issue of medical marijuana is a complex one, but leave it to our beloved Clowncil to never fail to put political expediency over good policy, or even, freedom.

Because each of us is so stupid, and we need the likes of our overlords to protect us, the horseshoe of horse's asses as well as their revolting cousins in the California State Legislature have now banned and protected you from the following items:

• Medical marijuana
• Plastic bags
• Paper bags
• Porn movies without condoms
• Foam food takeout containers 
• Tanning beds for teens
• foie gras
• Shark fin soup
• Kosher Coca Cola
• Incandescent light bulbs
• Hamburgers (South Central LA)
• Declawed Cats
• Talkradio
• ...and the list goes on

All of this is happening while the City is facing it's worst financial crisis, is under an FBI probe for public corruption, rapes are rampant through Hollywood, streets are not paved or even painted with lane markers

...and the list goes on.

Two homework assignments for you kids. 1) Make plans to vote in next March's city elections. These people operate in a vacuum and that vacuum is that 90% of you don't vote in these important contests. 2) Watch the movie (or read the book) "Atlas Shrugged." It will change your life.

Mid-Day Briefs on the Los Angeles Machine for Tuesday

They're back from summer recess!

Welcome back!

Your City Clowncil Central Committee is back in session today and the chamber has gone to "POT", that is the discussion on the future of Medical Pot Dispensaries in the City of Los Angeles. Currently, City Clowncil Strongman Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson is allowing 20 minutes of public comments for each side of the proposed ban. Then the Clowncil will sequester themselves in Close Session to review legal information. Expect this to last most of the day.

** Other News:

** What happen on a Kern County ranch is now a scandal that will not go away at LAUSD. The lawsuit stemming from the private behavior of former Superintendent Ramon Cortines at his Kern County spread, was to have been settle but the district made public the identity of the plaintiff.

** Los Angeles County Board of Supervisor Mike Antonovich wants to become the "Republican Kenny Hahn", meaning he wants term limits relaxed on members of the Board of Supervisors.

More news later in the day.

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14     

Mayor Sam Exclusive: Council President Wesson discusses 2012 Redistricting with African-American Clergy, Part 2

Mayor Sam's Multi-Part Series on City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson discussing Redistricting 2012 with members of the African-American Clergy.

 In Part Two, did City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson "offer up on the political platter" rookie City Councilman Joe Buscaino's CD 15 seat to the African-American Community in 2013?

Rookie City Councilman Joe Buscaino might want to watch his political backside around City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson.

Saying a prayer for the political soul of City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson.

Memo to CD 15 City Councilman Joe Buscaino,

First, we here at Mayor Sam hope you and the family had a great vacation during the just completed summer recess of the City Council. After your refreshing election to replace now Congresswoman Janice Hahn and your subsequent actions in office (we love your integration of new and social media as part of community outreach), you are deserving of some quality time with the family.

As you return today to your duties within the horseshoe, we like to bring your attention to this video above of City Council President Herb Wesson at a recent meeting of African-American clergy in South LA. Now we don't know the status of your current relationship with your CD 10 colleague, but from what we could gather from the comments made, it seems that Council President Wesson suggested that your council seat could be facing a challenge in 2013.

Now lets get real, your recent victory and the coalition that was the foundation for it, is not going to lose anytime soon in CD 15. The only way you can lose your employment as City Councilman in the next three terms, is to stray from the path of ethical political and personal behavior. Judging from your character, that is not going to happen. 

But Council President Wesson's comments should cause you to pause and give thought to who are your true political friends. We should note that Council President Wesson was one of your first endorsements from the current council. Now he is the first to offer up your seat in the name of political self-preservation. You don't need those types of political allies. But then that is the nature of the political beast.

In closing, we wish you nothing but the best in your political endeavors in CD 15 and we will always have your back, unlike a certain city council colleague.

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14    

Mayor Sam Exclusive: Council President Wesson discusses 2012 Redistricting with African-American Clergy, Part 1

Mayor Sam's Multi-Part Series on City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson discussing Redistricting 2012 with members of the African-American Clergy.

Appetite for embellishing the truth on Redistricting 2012?

City Council President Herb Wesson speaks before African American clergy.

Once upon a time, a diminutive African American young man learned the fine art of captivating an audience through the medium of comedy. Utilizing choice verbiage when needed to maximize a punch line or add flavor to a risque yarn, this small man's grasps of stand up would enable him to succeed on another stage, that of a political nature later in life.

For CD 10 City Councilman Herb Wesson, that early life stage persona came in handy a couple of weeks past when members of the African American Clergy invited the reigning City Council President to a "Q and A" on  the controversial (and soon to become litigious) 2012 Redistricting process. What follows is an extraordinary 50 minutes of exchanges between a clearly embitter African American Community and one of their alleged own. 

In Part One, Wesson tries to cast himself as the lone person  (against the twelve other members of the City Council) who stood up for the interest of the African American Community. Notice how Wesson states that Councilperson Perry and Parks had stop conversing with him as the other twelve conspire to take hard earned assets from African American council ares.

Wesson is not beyond making bold statements that would not stand up to fact checking in Part One and in the other segments that we will post throughout the week  Considering that the threats of lawsuits have been loudly stated , it is surprising that the City Council President would allow himself to be recorded.

** We should note that this video was re recorded due to downloading issues with the software use by the church where the meeting took place which led to quality issues.

Part two will be posted later ......... 

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

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Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Monday

Faces in the crowd at Second Annual Friends of the Southwest Museum Soda Tasting Fundraiser at Galco's Market

 CD 1 City Councilman and great friend of the Southwest Museum Ed Reyes. ** Councilman Reyes also had by his side current Chief of Staff and CD 1 City Council Candidate Jose Gardea

 51st Assembly District Candidate Luis Lopez and future Northeast constituents.(including Pastor Randy Carrillo on the right). ** The other 51st AD candidate Jimmy Gomez was expected to attend but somehow his GPS Machine could not compute the location of Galco's.

 53rd Assembly District Candidate Jose Aguilar with Friends of the Southwest Museum and Van De Kamp Coalition Activist Dan Wright.

The gracious Mr. and Mrs Arturo Chavez.

** An estimated 750+ people turned out yesterday for the Second Annual Friends of the Southwest Museum Soda Tasting Fundraiser at Galco's Market in Highland Park the turnout yesterday exceeded last year's number by 150 people  From its 5 P.M. start until 8 P.M., the line was constant as you enter the event, and made your way with shot glass in hand, through the various soda tasting booths, ending inside Galco's Market. Many bottles of exotic sodas made their way out of the store with Galco's donating the profits on this day to the Friends of the Southwest Museum.

The Comedic CD 8 City Councilman Bernard Parks?

One can note the comedic wit in the smile of CD 8 City Councilman Bernard Parks.

 ** I am one not to argue with Downtown News Editor and Scribe of Wit Jon Regardie, regarding his accessment of the comedic qualities of CD 8 City Councilman Bernard Parks.

I admit it: I thought Eighth District City Councilman Bernard Parks never smiled or cracked a joke. Then the nasty redistricting battle began, and Parks’ inner, furious comedian broke out. He has slammed the proceedings in a series of sharply funny newsletters. A June 21 blast decrying the council vote bore the headline “The Silence of the Scammed.” Zing! A week later, after Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa signed the redistricting legislation, Parks wrote that “he did it secretly in the dark of night — proving once again that there is no controversy too big for him... to run from.” Hey now! Still, those pale compared to two newsletters that zapped state Sen. Curren Price and council president and redistricting provocateur Herb Wesson. The April 5 missive began “The Price is Wrong, Curren!” He went on to state that Price is “probably best known for his ability and, dare I say talent, to remain solidly grounded on both sides of an issue.” He was harsher a week later when he noted that redistricting cleaved the Baldwin Hills-Crenshaw Plaza mall into two districts. Referring to the diminutive council president, Parks wrote, “Councilmember Herb Wesson and his ‘non-tourage’ actually drew the lines to ensure businesses like Macy’s and Buffalo Wild Wings would be split from the rest of the shopping center and placed into his district. I don’t know… maybe he likes short ribs.” The bolding was his. Ouch.—Jon Regardie

** Look for a Mayor Sam Exclusive on City Council President Herb "Mini Amin" Wesson later today..

OTHER BRIEFS 

** CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar's Broadway Street Car is going to cost big time dollars. The Downtown News editorializes that all who are ask to pay for this project be given the right to vote their feelings.

** The Los Angeles Times is following the lead of KCAL Channel 9 and this blog in reporting on the fallout of the rap video by a current GRYD employee on the making of Crack Cocaine.

** Rick Orlov's "Tipoff Column" this week focus on Chicago seeking LA GRYD advise on dealing with its gang problem, Councilman Dennis Zine using his B-day as a fundraiser and some Politico Influence List that has Mayor Villar at number 41.

** Rumor Department: We hear that 51st Assembly District Candidate Jimmy "PACman" Gomez is so confident of winning election in November that he is already trying to line up future support to become Speaker of the Assembly.

Lastly ......how do you get a bunch of CD 2 City Councilman Paul Krekorian staffers to become silent in an elevator? Ask them if their boss is running for City Attorney.

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14.    

Second Annual Friends of the Southwest Museum Soda Tasting Fundraiser at Galcos

If you are looking to get out and about this afternoon, the Second Annual Soda Tasting Fundraiser at Galcos to benefit the great work of the Friends of the Southwest Museum, is the place to be. Last year, nearly one thousand people attended this event and expect the same turnout if not more this year. See you there!!

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14  

Morning Brief on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Friday

Briefly, we are on deadline this morning working on a local political story that will appear here on Monday. Our prayers go out this morning to the victims of a senseless act of evil in Aurora, Colorado. We will post briefs this afternoon.

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14. 

Bloggin Happy Hour Musings on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Thursday

 Another Happy Hour Drink via Tony

Great Happy Hour Musings on the LA Political Machine for Thursday. Join us as we tip the glass and enlighten you on these political items that may find their way into someone's decaff morning coffee in the A.M. ; ) --- Scott Johnson.

BREAKING NEWS!! Shooting at SNL location at Highland Park Recreation Center, ** Update: one teenage female wounded 

Mayor Sam has received phone calls regarding two shooting within 45 minutes in Highland Park, including one at the Highland Park Recreation Center. The first shooting took place at 4;00 P.M. near Franklin High School. The second shooting happen 45 minutes later at Highland Park Recreation Center when two females were shot at by an unknown gunman. There are no reports of injuries at this time. ** The Highland Park Patch is reporting that one female teenager was wounded at the shooting near the Rec. Center.

According to Highland Park Senior Lead Officer Mark Allen, two female teenagers were sitting near the Highland Park Recreation Center (6150 Piedmont Ave.) when they were approached by two suspects who opened fire on the girls at around 4:40 p.m.One of the teenagers was wounded and rushed to hospital by LAFD paramedics, Allen said, adding that no further details were available about the incident.   

Los Angeles City Controller and 2013 Mayoral Candidate Wendy "The Valley Greuel".

Damn!  that publicity-chasing, shallow-auditing, mayoral office seeking Valley Greuel is at it again.

All you need to know about The Valley Greuel latest publicity-chasing , blonde finds out lately audit of a local political controversy is this paragraph from the LA Times missive on her latest media attention exercise.

Many of the findings mirrored those in an August 2011 report by State Controller John Chiang, which cited "possible malfeasance" in the district's selection of an inspector general, an office set up to police allegations of waste and mismanagement in the construction program. That report led the district's board of trustees to call on Greuel to review the process. 

By far, the best deconstruction of the Valley Greuel's latest publicity exercise is done by Ron Kaye.

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