Labor Day Getaway Briefs

"The Official Seal of the Wendy Greuel for Mayor Campaign".

Bloggin brothers and sisters, we are vacation bound thanks to generous employee benefits, via you in solidarity with our friends on the City Clowncil Central Committee, We hope all of you have a fun and safe weekend---Scott Johnson,

Special Mayor Sam Birthday Wishes to El Sereno's Michael Carreon!!

Boy how times have change from when this photo was taken!

We want to wish El Sereno Activist and City Hall Regular Michael Carreon a bloggin Happy Birthday. Maybe City Council President Herb Wesson may want to consider granting Michael five minutes of public comment time in appreciation of this special day??

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Thursday

The City Council "King of Retorts" CD 8 City Councilman Bernard Parks.

** Blogger's note: It was only time before the Office of CD 8 City Councilman Bernard Parks responded to the Gene Maddaus's "subjective agenda missive" in the "Former Weekly of Record", now the "Daily, Fact Devoid, Hatchet Job of Record", regarding to his supposed "power-clinging ways" on the the Coliseum Commission. Well ......., that time is here and this retort is classic!---Scott Johnson.

THIS IS A RETORT CLASSIC.

From the LA Weekly ............

Parks writes, "It's been said that facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored. Someone should tell that to Gene Maddaus, who may have set a world record in the 1,500-meter trash with his article. Maddaus' 1,500 words were nothing more than a biased effort to push the agenda of some Coliseum commissioners who favor their interim general manager and USC's acquisition of the Coliseum.

"I know this because after I went public with my disapproval of interim Coliseum general managerJohn Sandbrook due to his lack of competence and the USC Master Lease due to its lack of credibility months ago, Coliseum staff informed my staff that Sandbrook intended to make things difficult for a nonprofit organization that hosts an annual scholarship fundraiser in the Exposition Park Rose Garden. The collateral damage in this political tit-for-tat would be my wife, who happens to be the vice president of the nonprofit.

"At issue was an alcohol license that the previous Coliseum general manager offered to the organization for the event. Sandbrook determined that the use of the license was improper and informed my office. My office informed the nonprofit group, and without any hesitation or hassle, the group decided to obtain a different alcohol license. They have used the same license for the last two years with no incident.

"My staff informed Maddaus of Sandbrook's plot and also gave him an email showing that I advised the former commission president as well as Sandbrook to have the Alcohol [sic] Beverage Control investigate this matter. However, this information never made it into the article.

"Despite this trivial circumstance, Maddaus tried to link the scholarship fundraiser to my position on USC's lease, claiming that I opposed USC control of the Coliseum because I would no longer 'decide which community groups get access' (to the venue). First off, the fundraiser is held in the Rose Garden — not the Coliseum. And secondly, the Coliseum Commission has no say over events in the Rose Garden.

"Throughout the article, when Maddaus wasn't picking and choosing the facts as he pleased, he was making baseless statements and attributing them to ... no one or nothing in particular! In one instance, he wrote: ' ... the L.A. Times obtained a confidential draft of the lease — likely from Parks' office ... .' And, he never substantiated that very strong accusation with sources or evidence; not even a hazy outline of a gunman on the grassy knoll. This wouldn't fly in my office's weekly newsletter, and it certainly shouldn't be accepted by a publication that boasts about 'decoding Los Angeles for its readers.' "

"The only thing this story 'decoded' was what some commission members and staff have been adolescently gossiping about for months. I don't know whether it was Sleepy, Bashful, Grumpy or Dopey who spoon-fed him all of the half truths, but at least Maddaus was courageous enough to attach his name to his countless misguided thoughts instead of cowering in secrecy.

"The speculative nature of the Maddaus piece and the attempts by an embittered cabal of commissioners to hobble events in my community for payback are still dwarfed by two much weightier issues: the Coliseum corruption scandal and USC's new master lease. 

"I challenge the L.A. Weekly to adhere to its mission statement by 'confronting the city's political leaders' (those not afraid to be quoted, of course) on all of the issues surrounding one of our most beloved venues instead of writing stories now and recognizing the facts later." OUCH!!

** Speaking of "OUCH Moments", Mayor Antonio Villar is again on the receiving end of a verbal slap back over his "Republican Brown Face, Window Dressing Comments". This time its Utah Haitian American Mayor Mia Love, who calls upon the former Tony Villar to "start being responsible".  

** Once again,  Mt Washington Lawyer/Activist Dan Wright shines the legal light on 200,000 words of phony documentation that were incorporated into the City of Los Angeles Planning Department approval of an Eric Garcetti inspired skyscraper in Hollywood. Thanks to the work of Wright and his Silverstein Law Firm employer, that project is on hold. 

** Via Councilman Huizar's "Bloggin Maven on Choice", we learn that the "Westside White Guy" aka Kevin Roderick, has gone uber prissy on CD 2 City Councilman Paul Krekorian for daring to garner media attention over the ambulance bills sent to the families of two deceased Good Samaritans.

 "How about instead of a press conference for the cameras, (Councilman Paul) Krekorian quietly announces that he'll ask the full council to quash the fees — and if the council won't or can't, he could offer to pay the bills out of his office slush fund,"

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

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Wednesday

"Fail Democratic Window Dressing"

...... at least this Latino Democratic Failure comes in front cover glossy.

Somebody among the the multitudes of Mayor Antonio Villar press handlers, will soon have to take the blame for this "bloggin, hanging curve-ball of a stupid comment" broached by the "Glossy Latino Political Failure" from City Terrace, regarding "Brown, Republican Window Dressings". 

First up to the rhetorical home plate to whack back at Mayor Villar's latest "ahhh commentary", is KABC 790 AM Talk Show Host and Daily News Columnist Doug McIntyre, who had this to say about rating the Mayor Villar brand of political "window dressing".

As the world's leading authority on image over substance, it's hard to argue with Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa when he told reporters at the Republican Convention the GOP can't "trot out a brown face or a Spanish surname and expect people are going to vote for your party."When it comes to "window dressing" Antonio Villaraigosa is Macy's at Christmas.The mayor was specifically referring to speakers scheduled to fire up the Republican faithful in Tampa, including Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, New Mexico Gov. Susana Martinez and Ted Cruz, a candidate for the U.S. Senate from Texas."Window dressing" the mayor called them. And Villaraigosa knows window dressing when he sees it because he is window dressing.

Seems to me that the "Brown Republican Window Dressings" listed above, also have more life and political substance than the "11% Mayor".

Great Fundraiser for 43rd Assembly Candidate Greg Krikorian.

43rd Assembly Candidate Greg Krikorian.

Judging from the overwhelming turnout at the recent Greg Krikorian for Assembly Fundraiser, this brief passage on the proceedings, may bring on a "Lil Mikey episode".

The packed house at Arbat banquet hall included over 300 special guests that pledged their support for Krikorian’s State Assembly campaign. The evening’s guest list was comprised of friends and elected officials that included Burbank Councilmember Gary Bric, Glendale Councilmember’s Ara Najarian and Dave Weaver, La Cañada Board of Education Member Susan Boyd, Burbank Unified Board of Education Member Ted Bunch, Glendale Community College Trustee Vahe Peroomian, L.A. District Attorney candidate Alan Jackson, and former chair of the Republican Party of L.A. County, Jane Barnett. ** Some video footage below ...........

Wonder how the "Gatto Truthers" will spin this?

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

City Council votes to oppose any form of the 710 Freeway

CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar listens to constituents concerns about the 710 Freeway, at last Friday's City Council meeting. Photo via San Gabriel Valley Tribune.

In the words (posted below) of Concern Neighbors of El Sereno's Val Marquez (lower center), today was a historic day for El Sereno and the credit should go to among others, CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar. ** We agree to a point, predicated that the lion share of the credit goes to community members who's stance influence the councilman's decision-making process, as noted by Ron Kaye. 

VICTORY FOR EL SERENO! In an historic vote, LA City Council passed a Resolution today, authored by Huizar, Reyes and Garcetti, to oppose the 710 freeway alternatives that threatened to destroy our community. 

Following a special Transportation Meeting held yesterday, Councilman Huizar made an amendment that added alternative F7 - the TUNNEL option - to the Resolution. Opposing ALL the 710 freeway alternatives that threatened to run through the Northeast communities. 

Councilman Huizar led the charge this morning, convincing ALL fellow Council members, who voted UNANIMOUSLY in favor of this Resolution.

This is a MAJOR and HISTORIC step toward preserving our community.  

This sends a clear message to Metro and Caltrans that the Northeast communities will not sit idly by while our communities get destroyed by this senseless project.  The struggle continues until they take this off the table entirely!

We are especially thankful that we now have leaders, with special credit to Councilman Huizar, who are standing with us to protect our neighborhoods.

CONCERNED NEIGHBORS OF EL SERENO 

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Pictures from Homegrown Luis Lopez for Assembly Kickoff on Sunday

** Blogger's Note: A good crowd turned out last Sunday for the combination Campaign Kickoff/Office Opening for Homegrown 51st Assembly District Candidate Luis Lopez in Lincoln Heights. Prominent supporters in attendance included former Assemblywoman/City Councilwoman Jackie Goldberg, CD 5 City Councilman Paul Koretz, Congresswoman Judy Chu and fellow former candidate Arturo Chavez. Chavez gave a passionate speech, outing the establishment for insulting voters by picking an outsider (via Riverside) to run in the district.---Scott Johnson. 

51st Assembly District Candidate Luis Lopez on stage.

Excerpts from Lopez's Comments to the crowd.

For Assemblywoman/CD 1 City Councilwoman Jackie Goldberg.

Former 51st AD Candidate Arturo Chavez endorsing Luis Lopez for Assembly.

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Parklet Policy Victory can't buy El Sereno Peace for CD 14 Councilman Jose Huizar

** Blogger's Note: Through the power of Facebook's Social Media medium, we bring you this most fascinating exchange, that highlights the increased El Sereno Community misgivings about the leadership of CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar.What should of been a legislated victory lap instead became a blunt assessment on past issues that remain unresolved within the community. The "Parklet" victory still does not counter more important issues such as why zoning rules were ignored regarding the placement of the Academia Semillas del Pueblo Charter School next to an established (and beloved) community landmark eatery (with a pre-existing liquor license). Below, we cut and paste the dialog via the "I SURVIVE GROWING UP IN EL SERENO" Facebook Page---Scott Johnson.  

Once again discerning CD 14 constituents keep focus on true issues of concern in El Sereno Community. 

Artist Rendition of Mickey's Liquor Parklet via CD 14 Website.

Council voted in favor of our four parklet pilot projects in Council District 14 today – including one in El Sereno! Popular in New York and San Francisco these will be the City’s first parklets and will lead to future pedestrian projects throughout the City. On Huntington Drive, community members participating in our Huntington Drive improvement project decided that the first parklet will be located near the newly renovated Food 4 Less. Another one in El Sereno is already in the works! Thanks to all who helped!! If you would like to attend the next community meeting to discuss these and other proposed Huntington Drive improvements, please call my El Sereno office at (323) 226-1646.

Friday at 5:22pm
6 people like this.

Maurice Gonzalez I love what your doing for El Sereno. Please keep it going!!
Friday at 9:41pm via mobile

Liz Gonzalez I encourage residents to get involved with the new improvements that is headed our way. Be proactive in your community. Get in touch with Jose Huizar's office to find out more details
Saturday at 6:26am via mobile · 1

Anthony Manzano I am pleased to have participated and supported this project on behalf of the people today at City Hall. Thank You very much for the vision, and the improvements to our community....
Yesterday at 10:11am

Cynthia Sandoval I was there in support of the parklets also, I am very pleased with the improvements being made throughout El Sereno. Thank u Mr. Huizar~~~
Yesterday at 1:02pm

Liz Gonzalez Ooooh really?, Well let me toot my horn to....I was going to these meeting since last year and glad it's finally finalized but that's not important, making sure we keep this a safe environment in the community is what is really important
Yesterday at 2:06pm · 3

El Nopal Now, if only Sr. Huizar would stop supporting the unethical divisions of our community i.e. University Hills, Hillside Village, and the laughable Rose HillS, then maybe I would agree about Huizar doing a good job. Otherwise, it's a bunch BS that he cares about El Sereno. I'm don't even know why Anthony Manzano is taking any credit with helping "our community", considering that he doesn't even believe he lives in El Sereno and he's the one who wants to create this fake Rose HillS by chopping up El Sereno. Not to mention that his Rose HillS was supported by Huizar in a motion, all-while Anthony tried to justify it using made up history. Many of us in El Sereno are tired of this nonsense and we do have a vision, but it doesn't include any of the crap going on today. So much for caring about El Sereno.
Yesterday at 9:26pm · 1 .........and it gets better after the jump

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Support Homegrown Leader Luis Lopez for the 51st Assembly District

  The Bloggin Coalition to ban the Political Carpetbag(ger) in the 51st AD, calls on voters to support Homegrown Candidate Luis Lopez for the 51st Assembly District.

Shocking image of poor, exploited democratic donkey, that was seen wandering back to Riverside after bearing large amounts of PAC Money to transplanted 51st AD Candidate Jimmy "PAC Man" Gomez's new Echo Park Residence. "Ban the carpetbag(ger), save a Burrocrat"!

Join Homegrown Political Leaders Luis Lopez and Arturo Chavez this Sunday in Lincoln Heights!

51st AD Candidate Luis Lopez (right) at Cinco de Mayo Celebration in Ramona Gardens

The Gracious Mr. and Mrs. Arturo Chavez at Friends of the Southwest Museum's Soda Tasting Fundraiser.

Join Us at OUR NEW OFFICE as We Kick Off the General Election Campaign for Luis Lopez

Join Luis Lopez this Sunday in Lincoln Heights with community leaders, honored guests, friends and families of the 51st district and special guest Arturo Chavez 1 to 3 PM Sunday August 26th, 2012 Refreshments for the whole family will be served. Luis Lopez for Assembly 2012 Headquarters 2716 North Broadway, Suite 201 Los Angeles, CA  90031 Note: Parking on Sichel Street or in city lot on Workman Street. With any question, please call the Lopez campaign office at 323-395-1483 Your thoughts .............. Scott Johnson in CD 14

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

Wonder where Controller Wendy Greuel and City Councilman Eric Garcetti, would tattoo this on their posterior?

Just how far will the LA Labor Left go to retain power on City Hall's Third Floor?

Consider this from the LA Weekly on the local union's dread of a, then possible LA County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky run for Mayor.

The city's labor groups were not thrilled with the idea of Yaroslavsky running for mayor. We've (LA Weekly) heard rumors that some unions were planning to deluge him with negative advertising (and personal attacks on rumored "issues") if he had entered the race.

Zev knew this campaign would get "too personal" and LA will continue its slide towards the financial abyss, unless a truly fiscal reformer like Keven James gets elected.

** Former LA Mayor Richard Riordan, who latest "Mini-Riordan Mayoral Protege" dropped out some time back and with Yaroslavsky walking away from the 2013 Mayoral proceedings, is not too positive about the fiscal future of the "Collectivist Sanctuary City-State", within "Greece on the Pacific".

** Hola!! Is anyone home in the CD 7 Dacha of CD 2/7 City Councilman Richard "Zorro Marxist" AlarCON? A neighbor says rarely between 2006-2009 on the witness stand in the AlarCON's retrial.

** Jack Humphreville has the blunt truth behind the latest rate increase proposal at the non-people/constituent/rate payer orientated DWP (but they do political pet projects).

** Who is the person behind the CD 9 City Council Candidate and current fundraising leader LAPD Deputy Chief Terry Hata? That is the subject of the latest Downtown News "Regardie Report"

** Oh My God!! More insider endorsements for the City Controller Wendy "The Valley Greuel's" Campaign for Mayor. Via John Shallman's permission, the Valley Greuel's Campaign has been given a big hug of support by former Mayoral Candidate Bob Hertzberg, a Si Se Puede from UFW's Dolores Huerta and African-American Activist John Mack. (But Brian D'Arcy edits are still paramount).

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

"Hamlet Zev" finally says No to 2013 Mayoral Run

"Hamlet Zev" no more on Los Angeles Mayoral aspirations!!

** Blogger notes: Los Angels County Board of Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky has said no to a possible 2013 Mayoral run, ending months of Hamlet-like vacillation regarding his political future. With Zev's announcement via his web page, Developer Rick Caruso is the last outstanding potential major candidate yet to make a decision. As we cut and paste Zev's statement below, we provide this link to a John Walsh post regarding possible behind-the-scene motives for Zev's decisions---Scott Johnson

Zev and wife Barbara from long ago.

 For many months, I’ve been wrestling with one of the most difficult decisions of my political life—whether to run for the office of Mayor of Los Angeles. I’ve been urged to enter next year’s race by friends, supporters and residents throughout the city. And I’ve been humbled and touched by the confidence they’ve placed in me. I’m a lifelong resident of Los Angeles, a city facing serious challenges and opportunities. I have no doubt that, with my expertise and experience, I could help transform L.A.’s fortunes. In the end, however, it is this very length of service that has tipped the scales for me. By the end of my current term on the Board of Supervisors in December, 2014, I will have served the people of the city and county of Los Angeles for nearly 40 eventful, productive and fulfilling years. Beginning as a 26 year-old councilman, I have quite literally come of age in public life at the forefront of Los Angeles’ most critical issues. While I have never been a supporter of term limits, I do believe that four decades is long enough for any citizen to hold elective office, especially in an executive capacity. So I’ve made the decision to complete my current term on the board and then move on to the other things I’ve longed to do outside the political arena while I have plenty of productive years ahead of me. Simply put, it’s time for a new generation of leaders to emerge and guide this region into the future. I want to thank the many people who have given me advice and encouragement during the period that I have weighed this decision. I deeply appreciate their patience and understanding. I also want to thank the voters who have elected me 11 times and given me the privilege of representing them. Above all, I’m eternally grateful to my family, which has encouraged me every step of the way while sacrificing so much. Now, with that said, let me be clear: I’m not finished yet. I have more work to do and very little time in which to complete it. My dedicated staff and I will give our all during the next 27 months to get the job done. I look forward to working with you toward that end. 

Hmmmm, what could of been??

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

Help bring Mature Leadership back to the 43rd Assembly District

 As evident above, the "Infant Assemblyman Mike Lil Mikey Gatto" does not approve of this message.

With no apologies to the Gatto Truthers, we call upon the voters of the 43rd Assembly District to replace the tyrannical "Infant Assemblyman Mike Gatto", with longtime Glendale School Board Member Greg Kirkorian. Knowing first hand how Mike Gatto treats those that dare oppose his edits, this blogger will endeavor to call upon all within the 43rd AD, to vote for mature representation in Sacramento come November.  

We bring you the following Executive Order and Presentation via Mayor Sam

Via Executive Order of Mayor Sam, we bring back from retirement, the lovely, gracious Ms. Ass Clown to present this special, rare Ass Clown Award mid-week honor to Dakota Communications and now Mayor Sam Award Winner Rick Taylor.

 Show some crack ( in Rick Taylor's plans to resurrect the political career of City Attorney Carmen Trutanich) Ms. Ass Clown!

Nuch's new hatchet guy/ political rehab consultant Rick Taylor, talks too much smack for someone downstream of our lovely ass clown's curves.

The Mayor Sam Blog, via an Executive Order from our esteem leader Michael "Mayor Sam" Higby, has brought out of retirement Ms. Ass Clown to present Rick Taylor with this special mid-week Ass Clown Award. The inspiration behind this rare mid-week bestowing, were the following asinine comments in a Metropolitan News-Enterprise article, directed towards District Attorney Candidate Alan Jackson and City Attorney Candidate Greg Smith's Political Consultant John Thomas, that describe him as ......

an angry young man out there who’s trying to pretend he’s a political consultant 

By bestowing this honor on Taylor, he joins the likes of fellow lobbyist and USC employee David Galaviz, CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar, Eliot Sekuler of Mt. Washington/ Universal, CD 1 City Councilman Ed  "Density" Reyes and a certain "Infant Assemblyman Lil Mikey", in the hollow ranks of past Ass Clown winners.

We should note that Mr. Taylor has in the past, exhibited the traits that garnered the attention of the Ass Clown Award Selection Committee. During Taylor's past work on behalf of Dakota Communication's client Home Depot, Taylor employed the race card to smear the "No Home Depot" supporters as racists. For whatever reason, Taylor's paid racial bombast on the behalf of Home Depot, did not result in a Ass Clown Award at that time.

But to show that we here at Mayor Sam, can extend the open hand of friendship (or the bite of political satire) to Mr. Taylor, we offer this advise .................

DUNK NUCH FROM CITY ATTORNEY IN 2013!

Will new Ass Clown Award Winner Rick Taylor's negative attacks on behalf of rehabbing politico City Attorney Carmen Trutanich, give rise to a "Dunk Nuch Movement", on Election Day in March, 2013?

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14    

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Tuesday

Once again, Monica Garcia's LAUSD targets the El Sereno Community as a repository for tainted educators and a fail Charter School.

Mayor Sam has learned that former controversial Miramonte Elementary Principal Martin Sandoval "was" reassigned to El Sereno's Sierra Park Elementary. "Was" because of the actions of informed parents such as Mari Cameron who post this comment on The Voice Community News Facebook Page.......

Friends i am horrified...Superintendent Deasy...SHAME ON U..Some1 please tell me it isnt so..my son attends Sierra Park Elem..Well we had the pleasure of welcoming a new principal interestingly enough it was the same principal from Miramonte elementary school..Martin Sandoval..Sure dump him off in El Sereno..Surely no1 in El Sereno has axcess to newspaper, internet or tv..tHANK gOD he was removed after four days and the LAUSD barely made it public today after the fact.. Mr Sandoval was responsible for the whole notification debacle at miramonte elem.. He failed to notify ALL parents that a teacher in his employ for many years was behaving and engaging in lewd acts with students.. A man such as this has no place in public education..

Again, LAUSD School Board President Monica Garcia shows her respect for the supposed community that she resides. This, on top of her continuing support of the controversial, and potentially dangerous Academia Semillas del Pueblo Charter School, should prompt community member to consider her removal at the ballot box in March.

Your Princeton Graduate, Dear Charro Councilman needs YOU!!

A urgent special message from your Princeton Graduate, Dear Charro City Councilman Jose Huizar (via CD 14 Propaganda Director Rick "Coca Puffs".).

The Huntington Street Plaza is very close to receiving final approvals. Councilmember Huizar and Living Streets LA need everyone’s help to clear the last hurdle to realizing your (HaHa! just joking, I take credit for everything good in CD 14) plans.During the next week, the City Council will be deliberating on the Council District 14 Parklet pilot program that will give us permission (like "your" permission to allow Academia Semillas del Pueblo to operate next to a establish eatery the serves alcohol) to build our Street Plaza on Huntington Drive as a demonstration of improvements that could be made citywide.One key point in the deliberations will be confirming that there is broad community support for the project (Academia will provide its "rent a crowd" for the price of overlooking past zoning and lack of permit issues). So, we urge you to attend the Council Committee hearings on August 21^st and 22^nd and the Council meeting on Friday, August 24^th to show your support. (but please no comments on the CLARTS Fund or questions from El Sereno merchants regarding zoning issues at "Tata Marco's" esteem collective for Azteca indoctrination).

We should note that El Sereno residents can raise their loyalty score on Councilman Huizar's Constituent Discrimination, whoops, Contact List, by speaking in glowing terms on the positive vision for a better El Sereno tomorrow, as envisioned by your Princeton Graduate, Dear Charro. (** Plus look what a perfect score on the list did for "new Councilman Huizar staffer Julio Torres).

Team Obama's "Great Latino Hope" for Four More Years. 

The "Great Latino Hope" for Team Obama's forlorn quest for a second term, will meet with the local masses of assorted "Dependentcrats", "Dummycrats", "Socialists" and his remaining friends from his brothers and sisters of the local unions. As the "Great Latino Hope" nears his appointed departure time to depart for Charlotte, North Carolina, to act as the Payaso Chairperson of the Democrat National Convention, he will take time to reaffirm his support for his union brothers and sisters, to continue their practice of using dues money to remake California into "Greece on the Pacific" via a "no vote" on Prop 32.

Los Angeles County Democratic Party Presents 

"Countdown to Charlotte" with Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa

WHAT: Los Angeles County Democratic Party Presents "Countdown to Charlotte: What's at Stake in 2012" with Democratic National Convention Chair and Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa

With just two weeks to go before the Democratic National Convention, Mayor Villaraigosa will contrast President Obama's commitment to moving America forward (towards a merge with Moscow) with Mitt Romney's upside-down economics that will only serve the one percent. (Occupy speak)

Mayor Villaraigosa will also speak publicly for the first time on why he is opposing Proposition 32, the deceptive Special Exemptions Act on the November ballot. (democrat code speak for reform that hurts the their stranglehold on power in "Greece on the Pacific")  

Proposition 32 purports to be about "stopping special interests," even though the measure actually gives special exemptions to corporate special interests and Super PACs while silencing the political voice of California's everyday heroes - teachers, firefighters, nurses, and police officers. (** maybe Tony might want to debate former State Senator Gloria Romero who is supporting this needed reform?) 

WHEN: Tuesday, August 21, 2012. 7:00 PM

WHERE: IATSE Local 80. 2520 W. Olive Ave., Burbank, CA

WHO: Hon. Antonio Villaraigosa, Mayor, City of Los Angeles and Chair, Democratic National Convention

Mr. Eric C. Bauman, Chair, Los Angeles County Democratic Party and Vice Chair, California Democratic Party

NOTE: Open Press - Please RSVP to communications@lacdp.org. Media inquiries, please contact Clark Lee - 909.702.5809 / clarklee@lacdp.org

In ending, wonder if Trujillo will take Tony to the airport?

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

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Monday

Dakota Communications and respected Political Consultant Rick Taylor signs on to rehabilitate the politically-damage image of City Attorney Carmen Trutanich.

As we reported yesterday, Dakota Communications Rick Taylor has signed on for two jobs and an undisclosed pay day, with politically-damage goods City Attorney Carmen Trutanich. Image rehabilitation will be job number one and then the task of getting Nuch re-elected to a second term is job two. One observer noted that just the task of rehabilitating the damage image of the San Pedro attorney, is taxing enough for most consultants. Then you add the fact that you are engage in a re-election campaign and having to raise money from a zero sum, well ............. you get the idea of the challenge ahead for Taylor. But as the LA Dragnet Blog opines, there could be some major upside for Taylor and Dakota Communications if they are successful with Nuch's political rehabilitation, which can be describe in two words, "lobbying access". Oh BTW!! One last question for Taylor, is Zev running?

CD 9 City Council Candidate David Roberts quickly raises first $50,000

CD 9 City Council Candidate David Roberts    

It seems like yesterday that the former 2012 CD 9 representative to the tainted 2012 Redistricting Commission was announcing his intentions to replace City Councilwoman Jan Perry. Now as of late last week, Roberts is reporting that his campaign has raised its first $50,000 in contributions. This puts Roberts about even with fellow CD 9 candidates Assemblyman Mike Davis and controversial former CD 14 Chief of Staff Ana Cubas. All three are behind surprising fundraising leader LAPD's Terry Hata, who has raised six-figures in contributions.

Will Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa's "Partnership in Education" survive beyond end of his reign at City Hall?

  Mayor Villar confronts critics of his "Partnership in Education".

In yesterday's missive in the Daily News by Rick Orlov, regarding the future of Mayor Villar's success-challenged "Partnership in Education, we respectfully submit that two words will make (slim chance) or break (big time possibility), whether Mayor Villar's front for connected non profit enrichment (think Inner City Struggles) will flounder beyond the end of his term. Those two weighty words are MONICA GARCIA. Orlov may want to invest some future story budget, documenting the tyrannical excesses of the reigning presiding official of LAUSD's Board of Education and the fact that her blatant political considerations (with the mayor's blessings) are endangering the health and safety of children under her charge.    

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Video and Photos from Ya Basta Mayoral Candidate Forum

** Blogger's Note: Below are the two videos and photos from the Ya Basta Mayoral Candidate Forum held last Thursday, August 16, at the historic Casa de Mexicano in Boyle Heights. As previously reported, mayoral candidates City Councilwoman Jan Perry, former KRLA Talk Show Host Kevin James and former Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa Staffer Emanuel Pleitez attended, along with one other fringed candidate. Making a surprise appearance was City Attorney Carmen Trutanich, who took out papers late last week to run for a second term. Mayor Sam has learned that respected Political Consultant Rick Taylor has signed on to lead "Team Nuch's" efforts for re-election. One local political observer commented that whoever took the job of consulting Nuch's efforts for a second term, was taking on two jobs, running a campaign and rehabilitating the image of a tainted politico---Scott Johnson.

Part One of the Ya Basta Candidate Forum via George Bezzeti.

Part Two of the Ya Basta Candidate Forum via George Bezzeti..

 Wilson High School, Stanford University Graduate, former Congressional and Mayoral Candidate Emanuel Pleitez. Photo via Jose Aguilar.. 

CD 9 City Councilwoman and Mayoral Candidate Jan Perry. Photo via Jose Aguilar. 

 Former KRLA 870 AM Talk Show Host and Mayoral candidate Kevin James. Photo via Jose Aguilar.

Ya Basta Leader Art Pulido with City Attorney and Candidate for Re-election Carmen Trutanich. Photo via Jose Aguilar..

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Ominous Warning to 2013 Los Angeles Mayoral Candidates

Photo from Ya Basta Mayoral Candidate Forum by Enrique Arozqueta..

Enough is Enough!!

Lets give credit to the Ya Basta Community Organization for encapsulating in three words, what should be the major theme of the upcoming 2013 Mayoral Election.

The declared candidates and those doing their best "Hamlet impersonation" (Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky and Developer Rick Caruso), should be on notice that many citizen groups across the city, are  tire of the corruption and crony capitalism that will define the "Reign of Mayor Antonio Villar". Thus, are seeking a reformer that will return ethical government to 200 N. Spring Street.

For insider candidates such as Controller Wendy Greuel and City Councilman Eric Garcetti, your failure to get out and down to the base of the grass roots, may engender a voter backlash, based upon your well-documented contributions to the current state of affairs at City Hall.

In the case of "insider, outsider tweener" City Councilwoman Jan Perry, her chances to grow her support base, rests on the ability to be more candid about her past endeavors and avoid the perception of playing both sides on respective issues.

Then we have the much respected former local Talk Show Host and outsider candidate Kevin James, who one supposed journalist, in a bout of fact-devoid, ignorance,  was label a "non-starter candidate" last week. James on Thursday evening, walked into a mostly Latino gathering of community activists and came away as the overwhelming candidate of choice  (which may surprise the fact-devoid scribe referenced above) and the reason why a candidate like James (who many political observers not would give a thought to his potential outreach in this demographic group), was able to connect with the Ya Basta attendees?

Whether the group is Latino, Korean, Croatian, Armenian or Anglo, James message of reform and riding City Hall of corruption, is resonating in all corners of the city. Thus, the multiple ethnic groups and organizations that have been excluded or exploited, while a exclusive few benefit from the "Reign of Mayor Villar's Crony Capitalistic" excesses, as exampled by  IBEW's Brian D'Arcy, Ari Swiller and the museum garage of Eli Broad, are finding their common ethical "Basta" and joining James in saying "Enough is Enough!".

Kevin James on Corruption.

Kevin James latest on his coverage of the Rape Kit issue .

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14 

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

Bloggin TGIF to all as another political week meets its appointed end at a local watering hole near you. As you indulge away the stresses of the previous work week (in a responsible way of course) Here are some newsworthy topics and tips for the next political week---Scott Johnson.

Corruption Sells! This was the impression last evening at the Ya Basta Mayoral Candidate Forum in Boyle Heights, as the former KRLA Talk Show Host Kevin James garnered the best reception from among the audience for his pledge to root out corruption at City Hall. James was joined by fellow candidates Emanuel Pleitez and Jan Perry, while Wendy Greuel was a last minute no show. Eric Garcetti had never committed to attend.

Maybe why City Controller and 2013 Mayoral Candidate Wendy Greuel was a no show last night at the Ya Basta event was the need to maximize the most media coverage for her latest shallow pledge to seek out and find hidden funds from among 500 special accounts. We would hope that one of those special funds has to do with her former council colleague, standing with her in the photo above. 

.The lovely  mug shot photos of  Mr.and Mrs. CD2/7 City Councilman Richard "Zorro Marxist" Alarcon  will soon be joined by the booking photo of his staffer Miguel Figueras, who was charged today with misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter for the death of pedestrian Gary Woodford via collision with the city-owned vehicle being driven by AlarCON's longtime staffer. 

.In the words of Forrest Gump and hopefully for the political career of City Attorney Carmen Trutanich, his "Stupid says, Stupid does Moment", is behind him. Stupid  was making a pledge that was needless and  to compound the original act of political stupidity, was not having the resources in place to make good on the pledge.. But as Nuch takes out papers for a possible second term as City Attorney and as he makes the rounds city-wide (showing up last evening at the Ya Basta event), the rehabilitation of his tarnish image is going to be an arduous journey. 

** NEWS TIPS FOR NEWT WE:EK:

** What community will be the dumping ground for the former Miramonte School Principal?

** Is another Redistricting lawsuit pending?

** Is the GRYD Program covering a recent incident at a SNL site to protect a connected non-profit associated with Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and CD 14 City Councilman Jose Huizar?

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

El Sereno's Landmark "Hecho En Mexico Eatery" response to misinformation from Marie Salas and the Academia Semillas del Pueblo Charter School

El Sereno Community Gardens Organizer Marie Salas (pictured above) made the following comments about the Landmark Hecho En Mexico Restaurant, which was the basis for our "Back to School Tutorial" last Sunday. 

So can someone please explain what is the difference between the Shell gas station selling alcohol near by churches, schools, and a park and Hecho En Mexico Restaurant trying to get a liquor license right next door to a school, church, etc? Someone please clarify my confusion. Thanks Marie Salas.

After Salas comments and past allegations made by the Academia Semillas del Pueblo Charter School, the Bravo Family which owns the El Sereno Landmark Eatery has responded to Salas comments and clarifys the record regarding the liquor license issues at Hecho---Scott Johnson.

Academia Semillas del Pueblo Charter School grievances against the long established El Sereno Eatery 

 The Hecho En Mexico Eatery next the Academia Semillas del Pueblo Charter School (in yellow)

Dear Mary (Salas), Voice readers and community members:First, I would like to clarify that unlike the Shell Station which is seeking to obtain a Beer and Wine license, Hecho en Mexico currently has a beer and wine license. Additionally, Hecho en Mexico is not currently seeking to obtain a liquor license as stated in the comments.Second, I feel it is important to shed some light on the history of Hecho en Mexico and clarify any confusion as to which business was here first or why are we doing business between schools, churches, in the vicinity of parks, and a library. The main difference between the Shell station and Hecho is that the Hecho en Mexico is doing business in a location which has been in the community since 1929. This restaurant obtained its restaurant permits in 1950 and has been opened and operated continuously by three families since then. (First Casa Martinez, then Casita Tovar and now Hecho en Mexico). The library opened in 1959 and Barrio Action was opened in 2002 (per the City of LA Occupancy Permits) so as you can see the restaurant has been operating before the Old El Sereno Library, Barrio Action and Semillas. As for the beer and wine license the restaurant under the ownership of La Senora Tovar received approval back in the 80's. Hecho en Mexico continued the tradition and took over Casita Tovar in 2004 two years prior to Semillas opening its doors. Maybe the communities concerns should be directed at LAUSD and the City of LA for allowing a school to open next door to an existing restaurant which has been authorized by the local governing and state agencies to sell beer and wine. Hecho en Mexico is a bonafide restaurant which has obtained all Local, County and State permits required to operate legally unlike many other business owners who have not obtained all of the required permits. I understand your concern because you are a supporter of Semillas however I believe your comment about businesses such as ours who contribute to the community as using "mafia tactics" is unjust and unfair. We contribute to our community not because we have to but because we want to. Our children attend local schools and we live, shop and work in the community so our entire family has a vested interest to make El Sereno a safer, better place to live in and our goal is to achieve a better "quality of life" for our children. We would never ask the community to "turn the other cheek". Hecho en Mexico's philosophy is to work closely with the community and build bridges, beautify our surroundings and provide a resource for organizations such as yourself. In the future, please feel free to contact me personally as you have done so in the past when seeking donations for your garden if you have any additional questions or concerns---The Bravo Family.Yesterday at 7:25pm

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