Talk About Money in Politics

Mayoral candidates Kevin James and Emanuel Pleitez have been excluded from a debate scheduled for this evening, hosted by the Community Coalition (whatever that is) in South Central.

Why? According to a press release from the Pleitez campaign, it is because both he and James
have not yet raised $1 million in campaign contributions.UPDATE: The Community Coalition has given no valid reason at all as to the exclusion of Pleitez and James, according to John Hill of the Pleitez campaign.


On the heels of the LA City Council a day before passing a proclamation bemoaning the Citizens United decision and big money in politics, this "community based organization" puts out the welcome mat for only those candidates who have raised millions in special interest funds.

The Community Coalition's Facebook page states that their mission is to "help transform the social and economic conditions in South LA that foster addiction, crime, violence and poverty by building a community institution that involves thousands in creating, influencing and changing public policy." A rational person might assume that mission should include having as wide reaching a discussion on community issues and how to solve problems touching our neighborhoods.

In considering the exclusion of James and Pleitez - who by the way is a former Obama administration official and a left of center progressive of Latino extraction who can't be easily dumped into the "angry Republican white guy"category they easily throw James into - one need only scratch the surface of The Community Coalition's funding by unions and other special interests and it's cozy relationships with the status-quo elected officials all responsible for LA's "decade of decline." 

Yes, it's silly season, folks! 

Wendy Greuel and the Return of Sherry (Shirley?) Bebitch Jeffe

Who is Eric Garcetti? I don't know
him from Adam.

It's been such a long time since we've heard from our old friend, self-appointed political "analyst" Sherry (Shirley?) Bebitch-Jeffe. We've talked many times over nine years of Sherry's lack of relevance and asymptomatic analyses of LA politics.

I don't know what cushy academic post Sherry has these days, nor do I even care to bother to take the time to look it up, but Sherry has been trotted out for years by the local drive-by media, too clueless and too lazy to know what is really happening in LA and it's neighborhoods, that they bring out this icon of fossilized out of touch political thinking.

Sherry's take on local politics is solely from her armchair scholarship of the matter with brief expeditions into the Downtown world of awards dinners, corporate conferences (you know, anything hosted by a politician and Wells Fargo),etc. When it came to knowing about the growing blog movement in LA, Sherry could only recall former LA Times reporter, the lovable Westside White Guy, Kevin Roderick, lost in his (Anglo)LAObserverd world with another Caucasian relic from LA's past, Bill Boyarsky, spinning a disconnected view of what is really going on LA.

Like Messrs. Roderick and Boyarsky, Sherry presents a buttoned down view of LA politics, clothed in the finest from Macy's, that is all spoon fed from the Downtown Status Quo Gang and the powers that be. Sherry (or is it Shirley?) knows nothing of the true work of Neighborhood Councils, citizen activists, grass roots candidates, gadflies and the rag-tag journalists that are bloggers who are on the streets, connected to the best and in the gutters, wherever it is happening.

That's why we had to find it ironic that the latest presser out of Wendy Greuel's struggling for relevance Mayoral campaign had to dig deep to find none other than Sherry declaring the embattled and controversial controller as the "winner" of a recent candidates' debate. Here's some of the missive:

On Monday, Wendy turned in an outstanding debate performance, showing all Angelenos that she would be a tough fiscal watchdog as Mayor of Los Angeles. Respected NBC political analyst Sherry Bebitch Jeffe called Wendy the winner of the debate by a nose.

Perhaps next Wendy can get an interview with Betty Pleasant.

Morning Brief on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Thursday

** Blogger's note: Work and NC related projects are converging on respective deadlines today. Thus, my bloggin endeavors will resume this evening. Below is one story of interest from the Los Cerritos Newsgroup regarding "Private Citizen/ Political Consultant" John Shallman's tax issues---Scott Johnson.

Greuel Campaign Manager John Shallman Had Tax Liens Prior to Durkee Arrest

By Brian Hews and Randy Economy

John Shallman, campaign manager for Wendy Greuel.

John Shallman, Campaign Manager to Los Angeles Mayoral candidate Wendy Greuel was been hit with thirteen different state and federal tax liens in the last six years totaling more than $2.2 million.

Shallman and his attorney have publicly indicated that the tax liens are the result of convicted ex-campaign treasurer Kinde Durkee who managed the high-powered political consultant’s personal estate. Durkee is now serving a prison sentence for bilking millions of dollars from some of the most influential elected officials in California.

But an investigation of public records by Los Cerritos Community Newspaper has called into question Shallman’s statement because a majority of the liens were filed prior to Durkee being arrested.

Read more »

Chasing The News Again

Remember us?

It would really be nice if our City Council members were pro-active in chasing down real problems our City is having than coming up with feel-good legislation based on whatever is in the news at the moment.

On the docket:

13-0056
Motion (Perry-Parks) requesting that the Office of Finance, the City's three pension fund systems, and any other City investment entity, report on the feasibility of divestment of any City funds from companies that produce, manufacture, sell, or market assault weapons, high volume ammunition magazines, high caliber ammunition, and related equipment. 

Community Impact Statement: None submitted

Considering that the City's pensions are in huge financial trouble, it might be fiscally negligent to divest these securities, assuming they own them to begin with. Since President Obama has set his sights on the NRA, gun sales have skyrocketed. The stocks of these firms must be through the roof. Now that's a fiscally prudent move for the retirees.

Morning Brief on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Tuesday

Will SEIU 721 do what the former SEIU 347 never did, by supporting the next incarnation of the Mayor Antonio Villar Political Machine?

"Opportunistcrat" Mayoral Candidate City Controller Wendy "The Villar Greuel", a former republican, is the likely choice of endorsement for SEIU 721. 

For the love of the brothers and sisters LA city employees in SEIU bargaining units, its time to bring back the little union that could, Local 347.

Thanks to Andy Stern, the little local that stood strong against Tony Villar in 2001 and again in 2005 (in a loss cause), has now become just another "super local", with the number 721, that is ready to sell out its progressive soul. 

This evening, mayoral candidates City Councilman Eric Garcetti and City Controller Wendy "The Villar Greuel", have been summons to meet with union leaders and membership for another round of questions, as speculation is rampant that the Villar Greuel may get the coveted (for democratic candidates) endorsement, of one of the cities biggest bargaining units.

To the likes of Bob Schnoover, Julie Butcher, David Sanders and other old friends from the 347 era, it is my sincere hope that once again, the spirit of the 347 era is resurrected and the endorsement is given to anyone but the third term incarnation of Mayor Villar's Political Machine, the Villar Greuel.

The Villar Greuel, like her namesake, is a panderer that will say what you want to hear at this moment (no layoffs). The Villar Greuel may have even promise you a close shop rose garden, but like Tony, she has many faces which include a young republican one, before becoming a supposed friendly worker face.

But then it would befitting SEIU 721 to support the Villar Greuel, since it has now become the sorry facade of what once was the fighting face of a proud local that could stand up to an undemocratic political machine.

** As the members of SEIU 721 gather this evening, another former high-ranking brother is looking at some time, a looooong time behind bars. Tyrone Freeman, the once General Manager of SEIU 6434, is going away for looting the union coffers for his personal pleasure. In reviewing the Los Angeles Times story, I could not find one mention of a certain close political friend of Freeman. Maybe that friend, LA County Board of Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas will find some spare change (or discretionary funding) for a care package as a token of appreciation for Freeman's past "scheme of support"?

** Meanwhile on the mayoral debate front, the "the three foxes with one kit (Emanuel Pleitez)" and the outsider candidate Kevin James, faced off in a televise forum from UCLA. Being that city finances was the central theme of this debate, the opportunities were many for James to attack while the foxes played defense.

** The LA Weekly Gene Maddaus reports that the Villar Greuel Fox is ready to hit T.V. with an ad buy to hopefully help her trouble campaign. Meanwhile, the IE in support of Kevin James, has paired down its first video, into a thirty second, ready for T.V. version.

Remember to Outwit the Foxes on Election Day.

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Let Teachers' Carry

And in the Rocky Mountain State, they want to...

Monday evening in Colorado, Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, Colorado's largest grassroots gun rights organization, provided a free firearms training course for Colorado teachers.

300 men and women braved snow and inclement weather to attend the four hour course focusing on firearms safety and handling, and Colorado gun laws.

"Colorado teachers have been beating down our doors to receive firearms training,” said Rocky Mountain Gun Owners Executive Director Dudley Brown. “They don't want their students to be a victim of the next Adam Lanza. They came here for training tonight because they want the next Adam Lanza to face the barrel of a .45."


Tonight's class coincided with the introduction of Colorado Senate Bill 9, the Colorado Teacher Carry Bill, which would give school boards the ability to allow teachers to carry a firearm as long as they have a Concealed Weapons Permit.

"Henhouse" The First Video from the "Better Way LA PAC" in support of Kevin James for Mayor

The  first video highlight the "three foxes" running to control the LA Mayoral Henhouse.

Is that the Villar Greuel Fox lusting over a future City Hall Henhouse?

For your viewing pleasure from the Fred Davis "Better Way LA IE PAC" in support of Kevin James for Mayor. Link here for early thoughts from LA Weekly's Gene Maddaus.

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Monday

Introducing a new Mayor Sam Feature: "Outttakes from the Jurisprudence File of a Private Citizen/ Political Consultant", John Shallman.

Hola and great Monday morning to all in Ciudad de Los Angeles!

There would be no better way to begin our morning brief than with a “Private Citizen/ Political Consultant” John Shallman “Jurisprudence Outtake” from the Pulitzer Prize nominated Los Cerritos Community Newspaper via its investigated reporters Randy Economy and Brian Hews.

They report exclusively that City Attorney Carmen Trutanich has file a 200+ page motion that outlines further allegations of fiscal fraud originating from Shallman‘s consulting work in Trutanich‘s fail bid for District Attorney.

We excerpt the following below.

The motions allege that Shallman “grossly mismanaged and squandered campaign funds, and otherwise engaged in questionable and unethical practices.One of the instances cited in the motions alleges that Shallman hired Patricia Duchene of RED Mailing to print and mail campaign advertisements to 254,000 voters, charging $146,160.72.  The suit contends that if Shallman had done the mailings “in house” the cost would have been significantly less. The checks written to Duchene by Shallman total $164,344.21, while the Duchene invoice is for only $146,160.72.In addition to RED, the attorneys have documentation that shows checks written by Shallman to vendors for payment of services with Shallman asking for reimbursement later. Some of those reimbursements did not match the original check. “Usually you submit a check request to the campaign, and the campaign writes the check,” said one local CPA, “this is not good business practice and lends itself to abuse.”Shallman is the chief political consultant to current Los Angeles City Controller Wendy Greuel who is embroiled in a heated four-way race for Mayor of Los Angeles with former Federal Prosecutor Kevin James and Los Angeles City Council Members Jan Perry and Eric Garcetti.

Its safe to say that “Jurisprudence Outtakes via a Private Citizen/ Political Consultant“, will be a regular feature of mayor Sam in the weeks ahead , with diligent attention being paid by a certain “Barrister Cowan“, a given.

** The consulting prowess of the “Private Citizen/ Campaign Consultant for Wendy “The Villar Greuel” was the subject of generous story budgeting from the Old Gray Collective Hag on Spring Street (LA Times moniker). The resulting trifecta of coverage was a godsend to the Kevin James Campaign as the Times reported on the “Greuel, Noguez Connection”, the high number of Mayor Villar associates supporting The Villar Greuel Campaign and uber liberal feminist Senator Barbara Boxer’s endorsement of the Villar Greuel.

** For those discerning observers of LAUSD, a gauge on the success (or lack of) of  Mayor Antonio Villar’s “Partnership for Education”, can be ascertain via this story on Roosevelt High School by Gloria Castillo in the Eastern Group Publications. Hint, not all is well within Mayor Villar/ School Board President Monica Garcia’s supposed stronghold.

** Change is coming to the Horseshoe in City Hall come July and it may not bid well for fiscal sanity, as a mad rush of termed out Sacramento politicos, are seeking a public sector pay raise.

** We want to offer our condolences to the family of longtime political operative/lobbyist William “Bill” Orozco who passed away in his sleep last week. He was 63 years old.

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

Introducing 2015 CD 4 City Council Candidate Assemblyman "Slobo Mikey Gatto"

Mayor Sam chronicles the growth of Infant Assembly "Lil Mikey" Gatto, into future 2015 CD 4 City Council Candidate Assemblyman "Slobo Mikey" Gatto, the ethnic cleanser of the 43rd Assembly District Democratic Party.

Who do paranoid, self-center Infant Assemblymen like "Lil Mikey" Gatto, grow up to become as they reach political maturity?

 The former Infant Assemblyman has now become the 43rd AD Assemblyman "Slobo(dan Milosevic) Mikey" Gatto for his alleged recent purge of Armenians Democratic Delegate Candidates.

43rd AD Assemblyman "Slobo Mikey" Gatto.

** Blogger's note: In 2015, the race-baiting, future CD 4 City Council candidate pictured above, wants to become the latest democratic Sacramento failure to gain a public sector pay raise in Los Angeles City Hall. Our coverage of the political evolution of Mike Gatto has been well-chronicled and his disdain for us has been merciless via his Arkan-liked fanatics known as Gatto Truthers. but more troubling js "Slobo Mikey's" treatment of political opponents and the Armenian Community. Ron Kaye in his Sunday Column, reports on the troubling actions of Assemblyman "Slobo Mikey" during the recent 43rd AD democratic delegate selection process as we excerpt below.

Many participants came away infuriated, claiming Armenians were singled out by Brenner for challenges in an attempt to intimidate them out of voting — a claim that was given credence by the regional party official overseeing the election.“There were 30-some challenges issued to voters, and it was relatively noticeable that most of the people who were challenged had Armenian surnames — whether that was intentional or coincidental, it certainly didn’t look nice,” recalled Karen Wingard, who oversaw two other delegate elections where there were no challenges or controversies.“I doubt that an Assembly member who was a good Democrat would indulge in what appeared to be voter suppression. It had an unpleasant appearance. I have never seen anything like it so I emailed two party officials afterward about what happened.”The phrase “good Democrat” came up a lot that day.A flier circulated at the meeting attacked Garen Yegparian, an activist and columnist for the Armenian publication Asbarez, regarding his tough criticisms of the assemblyman in a six-part series of articles labeled “Grimy Gatto.” Noting his support for Republican election candidate and longtime friend Greg Krikorian, the flier questioned Yegparian’s party loyalty, saying in large black letters that he “SUPPORTS REPUBLICANS OVER GOOD DEMOCRATS.”In an impassioned one-minute speech, Yegparian recalled saying: “I held up that piece of paper and said, ‘It’s all true except for one thing, Mike Gatto is not a good Democrat. Mike Gatto is a vile creature. We have to work to eliminate this blight from our district.’“  

....... and if you are still in denial about "Slobo Mikey", consider this rant from thee Gatto Truther Blog

This past weekend the Democratic Party held its ADEM votes.  These are get togethers in each Assembly district, where individuals run to become state-level party delegates for 2013.  Not exactly picking between Biden and Hillary here.  My good friend [wo]manned the tables, and I attended to vote.
And it was there that we all encountered the new Larouchies.
The Armenian National Committee of America, Western Region, shares much in common with the Larouchies and little in common with Democrats.  Its members don't really believe in Democratic values.  A - They are anti-gay-marriage, and their leaders have said so repeatedly on television.  B - Their tactics are consistently racialist, combative, and unbecoming of small-d democratic principles.  C - Further, I am not the only one who has overheard anti-Semitic comments or heard of ANC members spouting anti-Semitic rhetoric.

Lets hope that "Slobo Mikey" never becomes "Bull Conner Gatto" or CD 4 City Councilman Mike Gatto.

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

Wendy Watch: "Friday Night Light-More on Noguez (for Sunday review)"

Dear Friends,

The Los Angeles Times published an article (BELOW) regarding the questions we raised surrounding the relationship between L.A. City Controller Wendy Greuel and disgraced and jailed L.A. County Assessor John Noguez.

Controller Greuel met with Assessor Noguez weeks before the investigation into his illegal conduct and the wild reduction in property tax revenues for Los Angeles had become public knowledge. 

Supervisor Zev Yaroslavksy's website references in an article (BELOW) the city’s Chief Administrative Officer Miguel Santana saying he found out about the property tax revenue gap belatedly and that it would likely cost the city $18 million.

In the Times article Greuel says according to the city charter it's her obligation to track county property tax assessment revenues for the city.  Greuel appears to have missed or ignored the warning signs.  

Did Noguez meet with her to warn her?  Why didn’t she audit property tax assessment revenues coming to the city to make certain the city was getting their fair share?

Wendy was obligated to know, but apparently she has been too busy campaigning for a promotion to the Mayor's office, instead of protecting at least $18 million according to her own CAO.

Jeff Corless

Campaign Manager

James for Mayor

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Friday

The Old Gray Collectivist Hag on Spring Street unleashes "ACORN Rainey" to blunt the Kevin James Campaign momentum.

 The LA Political Insiders PR Organ of Record.

Republican Agenda Basher of Record James "ACORN Rainey".

The LA Political Insider Elites are running scare of the Kevin James for Mayor Campaign. 

Thus, its time for drastic measures by its journalistic enabler "The Old Gray Collectivist Hag on Spring Street", via this bias agenda missive by James "ACORN Rainey", on the past Villar Greuel, John Noguez meetings .

With the likes of noted Liberal bias scribes Tim Rutten and Bill "WWG2" Boyarsky, sent to the journalistic retirement dachas, it falls upon "ACORN Rainey" to protect the interests of the elite insiders and their mayoral candidate of choice City Controller Wendy "The Villar Greuel".

It should come as no surprise that the Villar Greuel's "Private Citizen/ Political Consultant" John Shallman would call upon the Times and "ACORN Rainey" to stop the upward momentum of the James Campaign, considering the Shallman/Times failed past efforts on behalf of another insider darling "The Empty Political Vessel called Chris Essel".

We understand that Rainey (and the elites), were indignant that the James Campaign would have the audacity to make the assertion that the Villar Greuel and jail former LA County Assessor John Noguez, may have shared fiscal thoughts during past meetings.

But the act of "feigning indignation missives", is a noted, repeating behavior trait of "ACORN Rainey".

This especially when Republicans or Conservatives have the temerity to question the veracity/ integrity of Liberal institutions such as ACORN,  President Barack "H" Obama, his paper cover-up of video-taped anti-Israel comments by Rashid Khalidi and now the James Campaign's outing of the Villar Greuel/ John Noguez Meeting.

Thus, the James Campaign should push upward in knowing that the elite insiders are growing restless in combating an increasing potent outsider campaign to return ethics to 200 Spring Street.

** LAUSD District Four School Board Member Steve Zimmer displayed an unknown passion for conviction at last night's Candidate forum with Challenger Kate Anderson. For some in El Sereno, they may ask where was Zimmer's conviction when he had the chance to close down a fail Charter School?

** CD 3 City Councilman and City Controller Candidate Dennis Zine may lead in the money race to replace the Villar Greuel, but former City Controller Laura Chick is backing the insider choice Ron Galperin.

** Just breaking this late AM, Billionaire Texan Harold Simmons has donated another $500,000 to the IE Committee in support of Kevin James. Clearly this is in response to IBEW's Boss D'Arcy support (again) of the Villar Greuel. James Campaign Consultant made this comment to the LA Weekly.

It's not clear that Simmons has much interest in the particulars of L.A. politics. Davis has pitched the James campaign to conservative donors as an opportunity to restore the Republican brand in California.
"My guess is that Harold Simmons would like to see Los Angeles improving its financial situation," said Jeff Corless, James' spokesman. 
Corless also took a shot at Controller Wendy Greuel, who is receiving support from the IBEW, which represents employees of the L.A. Department of Water and Power.
"A private citizen supporting a candidate is not an issue compared to the DWP union directly supporting Wendy after she has voted for their pay increases and their pension benefit enhancements," Corless said.
At a debate on Thursday night, Greuel was asked about whether the IBEW support would influence her decisions as mayor.
"I've been an independent city controller," she said. "I've demonstrated that I'm an independent person, and no matter what I'll continue to do that."

A truly independent thinker would frown upon this latest DWP/ City Council misbehavior directed at Ratepayer Advocate Fred Pickel via this post by Ron Kaye.

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

Wendy the Outsider?

I'm an outsider with a parking
meter on my credenza!

Despite nearly 25 years in City Hall and the Federal government  candidate for Mayor Wendy Greuel is claiming to be the "outsider" candidate.

Excuse me while I choke.

Even the slow to get it Daily News caught wind of this joke and produced some fishwrap around it. By the way, City Attorney Carmen "the Clown" Trutanich, desperately trying to remain in office, claims to be an outsider too, but no one cares.

Los Angeles Times readers were perhaps puzzled to see a page 1 headline this month reading: "Greuel stresses status as outsider." Wendy Greuel, the city controller who's a contender for mayor, the former two-term city councilwoman? She has status as outsider? Really?

Read more...

Wendy Watch: All The World A Stage...Villar Greuel is Just a Player

For January 24, 2013

In today's installment, did the Villar Greuel "Pay to Play" proclivities enable donor friends to reap the rewards of "connected green energy"?

All The World’s A Stage…Greuel is Just a Player

An Insider Who Champions Pay-To-Play

  

  

Dear Friends,
In case you missed it, the Los Angeles Daily News Editorial Board scolded Controller Greuel for attempting to claim she is a city hall outsider.  That claim couldn’t be further from the truth.  Greuel’s 20-year long city hall career and deep record of dancing closely with the DWP union is at the core of why she is the ultimate insider.

On this day one year ago, we see yet another example of pay-to-play politics in Greuel’s office.  Mayoral campaign contribution goes in.  Weeks later, favors come out.  And, of course, none other than for a vendor (and donor) seeking support on a wind farm project for the DWP.

Wendy, we agree with the Daily News, stop insulting the voters’ intelligence.

Outsider? Nice try.

  Jeff Corless

Campaign Manager

James for Mayor

---

Date: Tue Jan 24, 2012

  

     3:30 pm Meeting with Marcus Allen & Gary Hardke, Cannon Power Group RE:      LADWP's RP & Cannon's Wind Farm Project (Donor, $1,000.00 12-15-11)

     Staff: Daniel

Here's the Rub: Cannon Power Group is a San Diego-based corporation that specializes in renewable energy since 1979. Gary Hardke is the President and Managing Director of the Cannon Group and Marcus Allen is a registered Lobbyist with the Los Angeles City Ethics Commission. This meeting occurred four weeks after Gary Hardke made a $1,000 contribution to the Greuel for Mayor campaign.     

Question: Will Controller Greuel acknowledge that politics and campaign contributions for her Mayoral campaign drive her schedule? Is it a part of the grand strategy that led to the creation of the DWP's SuperPAC supporting her Mayoral bid?  And what does this meeting have to do with her duties as the Cit Controller? The voters need to know.
Your thoughts ..............
Scott Johnson in CD 14

Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Thursday

The Insiders of the Los Angeles Political Machine get invite to President Barack "H" Obama get invited to ultra-exclusive Inaugural Party. 

Is the "Incarcerated Nunez" lady friend flashing the official hand sign of the LA Political Machine?

What did the insider trio of Mayor Antonio Villar, Los Angeles County Labor Federation Leader Maria Elena Durazo and former Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez do during their Washington D.C. visit to witness the second term inauguration of the "Teleprompter in Chief"? PARTY of course and gain access to the most exclusive event.

From the Hollywood Insider...........

The ultimate insider Inaugural event is the after-hours party that Barack and Michelle Obama throw at the White House after all the formal balls, and this year, celebrities and California politicos were amply represented at a decidedly informal gathering that went past 3:00 a.m. on the morning of Jan. 22.

Among the California politicos were ....................

Among the California and Los Angeles politicians invited were Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, who is said to be angling for an appointment as Commerce Secretary; former Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez; mayoral hopeful and City Council Member Eric Garcetti; labor honcho and incoming DNC Chairwoman Maria Elena Durazo; House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi; outgoing Labor Secretary Hilda Solis, who reportedly will seek the county supervisorial seat Gloria Molina is about to vacate; former California State Controller and major Democratic giver Steve Westly; and Fremont Place residentsMattie and Michael Lawson. He’s a lawyer, and she is an interior designer.

........ and from the West Coast, a certain mayoral candidate was left to pander her appreciation for TOTUS's second term.  

** CD 3 City Councilman Dennis Zine continues to role play a fiscal controller as he and CD 11 City Councilman Bill Rosendahl question the Board of Airport Commissioner's awarding of $4 Million dollars in PR contracts. We wonder if the current City Controller can find time in her busy donor, whoops, work schedule to audit the background on these questionable bids?

** LAUSD has another costly (in alleged victims and future legal costs) teacher abuse scandal to deal with and once again , the school principal, allegedly, ignore warnings on the actions of the teacher in question.

** The Old Gray Collectivist Hag on Spring Street has gone to the "agenda  journalist card", in reporting on the perfectly-legal I-5 Freeway Nuch Billboard. Meanwhile the former fishwrap of record is silent on the "Gorda Boo Boo Billboard" featuring LAUSD School Board President on Huntington Drive in El Sereno, that smacks of free electioneering.

** The first big debate in the battle for the future control of LAUSD takes place this evening in West LA as School Board Member Steve Zimmer faces his well-financed District Four challenger Kate Anderson. We strongly recommend that you link daily to the LA School Report Blog for the latest educational news.

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

Wendy the Pander Bear

Wow! You have a big one!

Never one to let a good crisis go to waste, President Obama is single-handed fighting gun violence and THAT's why you should donate to Wendy Greuel:

Friends -

Last week, President Obama announced a historic, comprehensive plan to reduce gun violence in America.

I applaud this effort, because gun violence is an epidemic that requires immediate action.

Please join me - stand with Mayors Against Illegal Guns and demand that Congress pass common-sense gun laws to keep dangerous weapons from falling into the wrong hands.

I support the President's call for universal background checks on all gun buyers, banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, and adding mental health resources for schools and police officers to our streets. These are common-sense reforms that we must enact immediately so our neighborhoods and children are safe.

Join me in supporting President Obama - sign my petition urging Congress to take action right now.

As a passionate and active member of Women Against Gun Violence since it was founded in 1993, I've fought to end tolerance of gun violence. I am proud to support Mayors Against Illegal Guns and to have worked with leaders across Los Angeles to license ammunition vendors and outlaw gun compartments in cars.

We have a lot of work left to do. Every day we wait means more Angelenos and Americans who fall victim to gun violence. Join me in urging Congress to take action now by signing my petition.

Thanks,

Wendy

Wendy Watch: "The John Noguez Meeting"

What can happen when an Absent Villar Greuel City Controller, meets with a Corrupt LA County Assessor John Noguez?

** Blogger's note: With no apologies to the Mayoral Candidate Villar Greuel, we bring you today's installment of "Wendy Watch" via the Kevin James Campaign. Today's edition highlights a past encounter between the lady of paper thin audits and the man of devalue property taxes (for campaign contributions)---Scott Johnson.

Money Makes the World Go Round...

Dear Friends,

     If it’s true what they say about birds of a feather flock together, then that would explain the close relationship between Wendy Greuel and John Noguez. As Controller, Wendy’s job is to follow the money, if there was ever evidence that she did so, just look at her calendar.

Where money flows, Wendy goes…and money makes the world go round- just ask Liza and Joel (or Wendy and John)!

Jeff Corless

Campaign Manager

James for Mayor

---

Date: Mon Jan 23, 2012

     7:30am Meeting with John Noguez, County Assessor

                    Where: Farmer Boys (Donor, 07', 08')

     1:00pm (DOWNTOWN) Coffee with Renata Simril 

                    Where: Checkers  (Donor, $1,300.00 12-14-12)  

     2:00pm (DOWNTOWN) Meeting with Ira Handelman & Matthew Aleksich

                    Where: Checkers (Lobbyist and Donor since 01')

     4:00pm (DOWNTOWN) Meeting with Robert Mulder & Ruben Guerra, LBA

                    Staff: Marisol (Donor, $500.00 12-15-11, $500.00 8-30-12)

   

Here's The Rub Part 1:  John Noguez is the Los Angeles County Accessor who was arrested this past October on 24 felony counts including bribery, conspiracy, and misappropriation of public funds that cost the County more than $1 million in property tax revenue. John Noguez also donated to both Wendy Greuel's City Council campaign in 2007, as well as her Controller campaign in 2008. Wendy Greuel also endorsed Noguez for County Assessor in 2010.

Question: Why is Wendy Greuel, the chief fiscal watchdog of the city, meeting with Noguez just months before his arrest? What did she know and when did she know it? Was Noguez a psuedo-advisor to Controller Greuel on how to manage city funds?

Here's The Rub Part 2: In a three hour span, during the Controller's office hours, Wendy Greuel met with three different donors who have either donated to her campaign or donated after she met with them.

Question: Are the taxpaying citizen of Los Angeles paying Wendy Greuel's nearly $200,000 salary so she can fundraise for her mayoral campaign? 

Here's The Rub Part 3: It has become standard practice for Wendy to assign her taxpayer funded Controller's office staff to campaign and fundraising events. According to the Los Angeles City Ethics Commission Ordinance number 172891 Section 49.5.5 

1. "No City official or employee of an agency shall engage in campaign-related activities, such as fundraising, the development of electronic or written materials, or research, for a campaign for any elective office or ballot measure: "

Question: Why does Wendy Greuel continue to staff her Controller employees at campaign events?

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Jan Perry Video Courts the Pet Vote

Mayoral Candidate Jan Perry outlines her Pet Policy.

Jan and her canine cast.

Thanks to LA Weekly's Patrick Range McDonald for highlighting this (trying hard to had back the laughter) video of Mayoral Candidate Jan Perry, outlining her "pet policy".

The video speaks (and laughs) for itself. 

But am I the only one who wishes that one of the candidates would make budget/ pension reform their number one "pet project"?

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

** We wonder if on review, whether "Private Citizen/ The Villar Greuel Campaign Consultant" John Shallman, will counter with a pandering "Dogs for Wendy" supporter list?  

Kevin James Makes Clear His Animal Policy

Animal welfare issues are key for many Los Angeles residents. Candidate for Mayor, Kevin James, has issued an extensive position paper on his plans for no-kill shelters, cutting back on unwanted animals and reducing the cost of managing Los Angeles animal issues. James has an extensive background in these issues, including his work with the AIDS Project Los Angeles PAWS/LA program and his work to assist equestrian owners in the Los Angeles Foothills during 2009's Station Fire.

Read the entire piece at LA Citywatch.

Jan Perry Endorsed by Dave Jones

Candidate for Mayor, Jan Perry, announces endorsement from California State Insurance Commissioner, Dave Jones. Perry's statement below:

Los Angeles, Calif. (January 23, 2013) – California’s Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones has endorsed Jan Perry’s candidacy for Mayor of Los Angeles. The endorsement comes as Perry’s campaign gains momentum into the March 5 election.

“Jan Perry will bring the type of tenacious leadership Los Angeles needs to make it work for everyone,” said Jones. “Jan is honest, hardworking and has a strong track record of creating jobs, generating new revenues for the city and ensuring her constituents have access to recreational activities and green space.”

Jones was elected California Insurance Commissioner in 2010. Prior to that he served in the California State Assembly from 2004 through 2010, where he chaired the Assembly Health Committee, the Assembly Judiciary Committee and the Budget Subcommittee on Health and Human Services. In 2008, he was named "Consumer Champion" by the California Consumer Federation; was awarded the "Leadership Award" by the Western Center on Law and Poverty and, Capitol Weekly named Jones California's "most effective legislator" other than the Assembly Speaker and the Senate President Pro Tempore.

“I am proud to receive Dave Jones’ endorsement,” said Perry. “I deeply respect him as a state leader and for his advocacy for the people of California. I feel we share the same values of putting petty politics aside to work toward what is right for the people.”

Matt Szabo has lead in CD 13 Election Poll

Mayor Villar staffer/confidant Matt Szabo has lead in early CD 13 Poll

CD 13 City Council Candidate Matt Szabo.

Could Matt Szabo next office number be a lucky "13"?

According to this poll, that may come to fruition.

MEMORANDUM

January 18, 2013

TO: INTERESTED PARTIES

FROM: PAUL GOODWIN
Goodwin Simon Strategic Research

RE: Key Findings – Voter Survey in LA Council District 13 

---

A telephone survey of 301 likely March, 2013 voters just completed by Goodwin Simon Strategic Research finds Deputy Mayor Matt Szabo already in the lead for the open seat in L.A.’s 13th Council District.

An initial vote question, giving voters only the names and official ballot titles of five of the leading candidates, yields the following:

So Szabo starts ahead based on his name and his title of Deputy Mayor. But the survey suggests that this initial edge is only the first of Szabo’s several advantages in this race.

Second, we see that Mayor Villaraigosa, who has endorsed Szabo in this race, is very popular – with a 69% favorable rating overall and 79% favorable among voters undecided in the council race.

Third, we find Szabo has a wide lead over Choi and O’Farrell after we read voters positive paragraphs about the candidates. We told them about Choi’s excellent record delivering quality services to millions of residents and his labor background. We told them about O’Farrell’s close ties to this district as senior advisor to Councilman Garcetti. And we told them about Szabo’s experience working with and for Mayors Riordan and Villaragosa and the City Attorney. The result: a 12 point lead over O’Farrell and a 15 point lead over Choi, as shown on the next page.

We don’t pretend that such “informed” vote questions are totally neutral, but we do try to give the best themes from each candidate, drawn from their own campaign materials, to see where voters go initially -- before turning on the positives for our candidate as we move farther into the poll. That Szabo takes such a substantial lead in a question like this suggests not only that his background is very appealing to voters, but that they were just not that interested in what Choi and O’Farrell are telling voters about themselves so far.

Fourth, the range of positives that Szabo brings to the campaign is broad and so impressive that our main challenge in the polling analysis is to narrow it down to a handful of the most effective and persuasive items. In a district in which the right track numbers are the highest we have seen so far in the city (compared to the other districts where we are polling), and in which 80% of the voters think the Council is doing at least a fair job, we can feel confident that voters are looking for experience and accomplishments. Szabo fits their bill perfectly.

Szabo is very likely to finish first in March, and that this will leave him secure for the May runoff.

Methodology

The telephone survey, using both English-speaking and Spanish-speaking interviewers and both land line and wireless numbers, was conducted with 301 likely March voters between January 13 and January 15, 2013. It yielded a margin of error of about plus or minus 5.8% at a 95% confidence level.

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

Wendy Watch: Same Day, Different Year

It was about 10:30 a.m. on  Friday, January 10th, 2010. I was assigned to Wendy Watch out of City Hall, 200 North Spring Street, Los Angeles. My name's Yorty. I'm a dead mayor.

Wendy Greuel, formerly a member of the Los Angeles City Council, now Controller for the City of Los Angeles had a telephone appointment with Kathy Spillar of the Feminist Majority Foundation. The FMF is one of those hard-boiled women's groups that wants to make sure elected officials are addressing issues of concern to women. I take no sides, I'm only looking for the truth.

The issue at hand was concern by residents and victims of rape two years before that "rape kits," physical evidence of reported rapes were backlogged when it came to analysis and investigation by the LAPD, work that could lead to the capture and conviction of these rapist scums and prevent potential future rapes. The rub was that the City Council was ignoring the issue.

Action finally started to happen when then radio broadcaster, Kevin James, pushed the issue into the media and then City Controller Laura Chick was the only elected official to address the matter.

So why was it two years later that Ms. Greuel was meeting with this important organization to seemingly take credit?

Most likely it was that Greuel, having won the Controllers race just months before, was already teeing up a run for Mayor. Support from an important women's group like this would be key; particularly if Ms. Greuel was setting up to be the first female mayor of the nation's second largest city.

It may very well be that Ms. Greuel's attempt to take credit for movement on the rape kit issue rang hollow, as she was part of the Council in 2008 that failed to take action. My guess is this one reason why the National Organization for Women endorsed her opponent Eric Garcetti who is a man. Just the facts, mam.

Liars and shysters don't sit well with the citizens. Unless they're elected officials. That's why I'm here.

The story you have just heard is true. The names were not changed to protect the innocent as there are none when it comes to LA's insider political elite. 

Mike Feuer's "Contradiction of Spin" regarding "Bet Tzedekgate"

Mike Feuer continues to provide "Contradictions of Spin" as more questions on "Bet Tzedekgate" continue to arise.

City Attorney Candidate Assemblyman Mike Feuer in recent photo with fellow former Bet Tzedek Executive Directors (from left to right) Luis Lainer ($1,300), Terry Friedman ($500), Feuer, David Lash ($1,000), Mitchell Kamin ($1,000) and current E.D./CEO Sandor Samuels ($1000 + the amount of $750  from his wife). Photo via the Los Angeles Dragnet Blog. (** bolded amounts denotes Feuer contributions).

A story of questionable campaign contributions by officials and associates of Bet Tzedek to City Attorney Candidate Mike Feuer, continues into its second week.

This thanks to questions posed by the Metropolitan Press Enterprise and the subsequent "contradiction of spin" by the Feuer Campaign is noted in the latest report from the long-standing Legal News entity.

Feuer, a former executive director of Bet Tzedek Legal Services, was plagued last week by allegations that his campaign accepted “legally questionable” contributions from “officials and associates” of the non-profit organization, which in July 2011 entered into a $398,000 contract with the city’s Department of Aging. Under voter-approved Measure H, meant to curb so-called “pay-to-play” practices, candidates for city office are prohibited from accepting donations from individuals who have bid or are bidding for city contracts of $100,000 or more,Feuer told the MetNews before the debate that the original Bet Tzedek contract at issue was not subject to Measure H and that while the amendment of the contract was subject to the restrictions, with the exception of one donation, which was promptly returned, all of the questioned contributions his campaign received during the applicable blackout period came from board members who weren’t prohibited from donating.The allegations, reported initially on a local political blog, drew a heated response from Feuer, who said it was shameful that anyone would use legal donations to score points off of the disadvantaged people that Bet Tzedek helps.

While assuming that current President and CEO Sandor Samuels may have been the source of the "returned contribution" noted above, we bring your attention to this contribution from Robert Schwartz.

09/18/12

Robert Schwartz   (Attorney, O'Melveny & Myers LLP) Los Angeles, CA 90067

Mike Feuer  City Attorney 1341335 - Mike Feuer For City Attorney 2013

A - Monetary Contribution Received (IND - Individual)  [Period: 07/01/12 to 09/30/12]

$1,300.00 [Election: 03/05/13]

Currently on Bet Tzedek Board Web Page, a Robert Schwartz of the same law firm is listed. Further, a "Chairman Robert Schwartz" who works in the same zip code (90067), is noted on the City Ethics Commission Bidder Contributions CEC Form 55. Thus, would also be prohibited from contributing under the new Measure H rules.

We invite the Feuer Campaign to comment on the legality of Bet Tzedek "Board Chairman" Robert Schwartz's campaign contribution.

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