Was Mark Ridley-Thomas On Your Corruption Bingo Card?

 By Daniel Guss 

@TheGussReport - Shame, shame, shame if you are a follower of Southern California politics and didn't have Los Angeles City Councilmember Mark Ridley-Thomas, MRT, on your corruption bingo card.  Yesterday, he and a former USC dean were indicted for what amounts to the following.

One of MRT's sons, Sebastian Ridley-Thomas, SRT, who had no legitimate reason for being elected to public office other than sporting a locally famous political surname, allegedly got all "hands across America" with women when he was in the California State Assembly and had to skedaddle so investigations into his haranguing proclivities could be dismissed as politically unnecessary. 

Mark Ridley-Thomas, Sebastian Ridley-Thomas

Photo Credit: ABC7

The media swallowed hook, line and stinker SRT's claim that his abrupt resignation was due to "medical reasons."

Like many coddled, lay-about children of politicians, SRT's daddy came to his rescue to get him a job that MRT apparently felt his son wasn't qualified to legitimately earn on his own and went over the top by allegedly buying him a professorship at the University of Southern California, USC.

Daddy Ridley-Thomas also allegedly bought Offspring Ridley-Thomas a USC graduate school admission and a full scholarship.

Think about that for a moment.  Mark Ridley-Thomas allegedly bought his kid a scholarship.  What bowl of Apple Jacks were those kids fed growing up where nobody seems to have raised the notion of accomplishment over entitlement?

You know, the type of bull that Mark Ridley-Thomas and all politicians spew day and night.

According to the indictment, all MRT had to do in exchange (i.e. a quid pro quo) was funnel your tax dollars and mine back to USC in a twisted amalgam of non-profits, nepotism and looking the other way. But it was apparently so aggressively ill-conceived that even USC couldn't ignore it and appears to have ratted out the wrong-doers to the feds itself.

What is it about USC that makes it a magnet for wealthy, powerful parents who think their kids aren't smart enough to get in on their own but can still be purchased from a cashier, as though the degree is a Prada bag that you carry around town?  Here's looking at you, Lori Loughlin and Mossimo Giannulli.

On that note, USC continues to refuse to say whether Gianna "Gigi" Caruso, daughter of bazillionaire and a Chairman of the USC Board of Trustees Rick Caruso, earned her way into the school.  The last time this column asked, the school dodged the question and described Ms. Caruso in a way that was nothing short of shameful.

Rick Caruso, Gigi Caruso, Tina Caruso

Photo Credit: Unknown

By the way, are we still allowed to say "chairman?"  USC still does.

To be fair, we shall assume that the bikini entrepreneur (and gal pal of the Loughlin/Giannulli children) earned her way into USC through exceptional grades, test scores and community service.  It's just that the school and papa bear have refused to say that she did, let alone provide the specifics.

Mr. Caruso might very well make an excellent successor to uber-failure Eric Garcetti, perhaps in the tradition of Richard Riordan, the only stellar alcalde L.A. has had in the past several decades and maybe the best ever.  If he decides to run, the Los Angeles Times should ask about Gigi's admission into USC.

But don't bank on it.

-----

A year ago, the Los Angeles Times endorsed Mark Ridley-Thomas to return to LA City Council despite knowing full-well about the alleged crimes for which he and a former USC dean were indicted yesterday, writing:

"He has made questionable ethical decisions, most notably when he funneled $100,000 from campaign fund to USC, which then hired his son as a professor."

Hey thanks for that endorsement, LA Times.  Imagine what a clear-eyed endorsement of a capable, accomplished community activist and attorney named Grace Yoo, who doesn't have the stink of scandal emanating from her pores, could have done for L.A.

But misapplied power and cronyism are hard habits to break.

The Times also repeatedly endorsed Mitch Englander,  who currently brushes his teeth in a federal prison in Arizona.  It also gave us the thumbs-up for Jose Huizar, who might someday set up camp in Englander's prison. And the Times has repeatedly endorsed others like Mayor Eric Garcetti, former Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and former L.A. City Council president Herb Wesson.

But there's nothing that the Times loves to do more than floating the notion of coddled, lay-about political offspring (like Sebastian Ridley-Thomas and Justin Wesson) running to succeed their parents rather than encouraging fresh names with better ideas.

Huzzahs!  Everyone gets a trophy, everyone gets to walk in their parents' footsteps just because they're special!

Everyone except the kids who earned those spots in school.

Everyone except the candidates for office who would have worked diligently and with integrity to improve L.A.

Note to the L.A. Times: You can't manufacture the Kennedys. Even the Kennedys were not what the media wanted us to believe that they were. And neither are these locals.

If Los Angeles is going to be a glutton for felons, failures and flunky children of kleptocrat politicians, it is the Times' job to keep us from falling off that cliff rather than giving us a shove.

Thanks again, El Segundo Times.

-----

And finally, this column has chosen the top five politicians or political hangers-on who it thinks might be indicted next. We'll keep that on the note pad over here by the morning lime water.  But here's a hint: Methinks some will be for bankruptcy fraud, wire fraud, tax evasion, forgery and/or voter registration fraud.  Okay, or bribery, but we assume you already knew that.

Tell your friends to follow me on The Twitters @TheGussReport.

(Daniel Guss, MBA, was runner-up for the 2020 Los Angeles Press Club journalism award for Best Online Political Commentary and has contributed to CityWatch, KFI AM-640, iHeartMedia, 790-KABC, Cumulus Media, Huffington Post, Los Angeles Daily News, Los Angeles Magazine, Movieline Magazine, Emmy Magazine, Los Angeles Business Journal, Pasadena Star-News, Los Angeles Downtown News and the Los Angeles Times in its Sports, Opinion and Entertainment sections as well as its Sunday Magazine, among other publishers.)

Presently using mi amigo Scott's sign-in until tech matters are resolved.

Morning Briefs on the Wuhan Virus Scene in Los Angeles (and Beyond) for Tuesday

 The Los Angeles Unified School District, USC, LA Mayor Eric Garcetti, California Governor Gavin Newsom and the Pasadena Tournament of Roses (?), are featured as the Mayor Sam Sister City News Group endeavors to provide the latest unbiased, Wuhan Virus News and Facts.

The Official Unmasked Wuhan Virus Politico Hypocrite:

** Blogger's Notes: As the likes of Calizuela Governor Gavin ?Maduro" Newsom,  LA Failure Mayor 2.0 Eric "Yoga Pants", the LA County Minister of Social Health Barbara Ferrer, with stenographic regurgitation from a "Formerly Fishwrap of Record (on Spring Street)", push for a return to draconian Wuhan Virus Stay-at-Home Decrees, the Mayor Sam Sister City News Group recommits to the cyber-endeavor of providing the latest unbiased news and facts, as it becomes more readily-apparent, that politics, not science, is the paramount motive for the regressive actions being initiated by the likes of Governor Newsom and Mayor Garcetti. Instead of promoting Improvisation, Adaptation and striving to Overcome a Communist China-originating Wuhan Virus, the controlling One Party Collectivist Machine that reigns over Los Angeles y California, has digress to using science-challenged decrees, in pursuit of a desired "November Political Goal" ........., that is already having adverse fiscal, ethical and health ramifications.  The law-abiding, objective majority can readily discern that the recent spikes in Positive Wuhan Virus Reports, is the byproduct of recent Protests (as admitted to by Mayor Yoga Pants), a Border Region Surge out of Imperial County ........, and the FACT that we are conducting more tests (locally and nation-wide). The objective majority seeking factually and science-based content on the Wuhan Virus, would find it imperative to review daily content from the likes of Alex Berenson, Phil Kerpen, Alicia Smith and Ian Miller, rather than read today's formerly "LA Antonio Times" Editorial, that espouses doing away (for now) with the California State Bar Exam ......., which a certain Ex Failure Mayor Namesake, failed FOUR Times-----Scott Johnson.

Read more »

USC Snubs DA Jackie Lacey Office in Referring Father and Son Ridley-Thomas to the Feds

In lieu of last week's dramatic disclosure by the reform-minded University of Scandalous Conduct (USC) regarding its Criminal Referral of South LA's Father (Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas) and Son (Sebastian) alleged Political Money Washers to the US Attorney Office, observers cannot ignore the fact that the embattled Educational Institution, bypassed LA County District Attorney Jackie Lacey's Office of Public Integrity. 

Soon to be Termed-out (in 2020) Los Angeles County Board of Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas.

** Blogger's Notes: As the end date of the Los Angeles Board of Supervisors tenure of Mark "Home Renovation-Thomas", nears its 2020 conclusion, gone will be the opportunity of LA County District Attorney Jackie Lacey's opportunity to show that her incarnation of the supposed corruption-busting, Office of Public Integrity, could regulate one of its own. Its no secret that the BFF of former SEIU Local 6434 General Manager Tyrone Freeman, would make a great Political Maytag Washing Machine Mechanic for his alleged various schemes to wash Public and Union Money .........., into self-serving, Personal and Campaign Revenue respectively. With no discerning oversight from the Office of Public Integrity, who can feign surprise that the aspiring Political Maytag Mechanic, would seek to pass on his alleged "Washing Expertise" to his son Sebastian, but whoops, a reform-minded "University of Scandalous Conduct (under Rick Caruso)", is apparently not "Nikias" in condoning un-ethical conduct. Nor is a Rick Caruso-led Reformist Administration Non-intuitive in directing its Criminal Referral directly to the President Donald Trump-controlled Justice Department ........, and not to a currently, castrated Office of Public Integrity----Scott Johnson.   

LA County District Attorney Jackie Lacey.

Former Assemblyman (and terminated USC Professor) Sebastian Ridley-Thomas.

A Flashback to the Mark "Home Renovation-Thomas" Controversy. 

The Community-corrupting Era of alleged Ex USC President Max Nikias, needs a total deconstructing.   

A Bloggin "University of Scholastic Compromise (USC)" Teachable Moment featuring ..........., A Horse Named Traveler (soon to become Elmers?)

As the Student Body of the "University of Scholastic Compromise (USC)" under the CONTROL of President Max Nikias), returns for another expensive year of quality indoctrination, the Mayor Sam Blog proudly offers this FREE bloggin Teachable Moment on the subject of "A Horse Named Traveler (with one L)". 

The MASTERMIND of Communal, Educational, Ethical Deconstructing and enabler of Medical School Dean's Drug Use Safe Space at the "University of Scandalous Conduct", President Max Nikias.

** Blogger's Notes: Its no blogging understatement to keyboard that CONTROVERSY REIGNS at this moment in Politics, Race Relations, Media ............., and AGAIN at the apparent "University of Scholastic Compromise (USC)". A member of the African-America Student Body during an evening, on-campus Charlottesville Solidarity Rally, noted that the school's Mascot "Traveler" shared the same name as Confederate General Robert E. Lee's Horse "Traveller", in stating that "white supremacy hits close to home (more on that below)". In response to this latest USC Controversy, the LA Times allocated, RARE Accidental Journalism Story Budgeting, in seeking to find the "Missing L" that would link the naming of the original "Traveler (USC' is on its Ninth Version)" to Lee's "Traveller". That stated, we here at Mayor Sam, in the spirit of the late, Inner City Educator Marva Collins, present the following Teachable Moment, that will will educate, then liberate (via facts and remedies) the AFFLICTED at USC-----Scott Johnson (** FOR THE RECORD: We should note that there has been NO accusations that UCLA's "Bruin" Mascot, is a SECRET Trump-supporting, Russian Bear)   

A Horse/Mascot named Traveler (with one L). * Note Traveler's PURE WHITENESS that former School President (and Eugenics Supporter) Rufas von KleinSmid, would of found genetically proper. 

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HOT Morning Briefs of the Los Angeles Political Machine for Monday

It should be time to say SAYONARA to any future political aspirations for Unlawful Cubafornia State Senate Presiding Officer Kevin Alexander of Leon (aka. K.A. Leon) as The Sanctuary State Bill Author invites Pacifica Services (and his Appointee to the High Speed Rail Commission) Ernest Camacho, on a Junket to Japan.

From the Facebook Page of State Senator Holly Mitchell: State Senate Presiding Officer K.A. Leon (in gray t-shirt) and Ernest Camacho (third from right in white shirt) in Japan with other members of the Cubafornia Junket Delegation. 

** Blogger's Notes: A bloggin KONNICHIWA to all, especially to Unlawful State Senate Presiding Officer Kevin Alexander of Leon (aka. K.A. Leon, or the Politico Self-branded as Kevin De Leon), ......, and his Junket Companion Ernest Camacho of Pacific Services. K.A. Leon appointed the Pacifica CEO to the California High Speed Rail Authority Board of Directors last Spring. Thus, one can surmise that Camacho spent his time in Japan absorbing information on recent incarnations of the famous Bullet Trains .......... and pondering how his company can someday replicate its past Central Basin Water District Billing/Handout Practices, in garnering some future spoils.

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Its Time for a Mayor Sam Bloggin Reset ..........

With no apologies to a certain "Ex Blameless (HAHA!) Wife of Bill Clinton Presidential Candidate", the Mayor Sam Blog commences a BLOGGIN RESET, that expands our political musings beyond our normal 200 Spring Street-centered coverage ............, without ABSOLUTELY any pre-conditions.   

We are Hitting The Bloggin Reset Button .........., with ABSOLUTELY no accommodations to the Local, State and National Political Establishments (of BOTH Parties).

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The Universially-condemned, Scandalous Conduct of USC Vice-President Martha Escutia

An universal condemnation of University of Southern California (USC) Vice-President (and former State Senator) Martha Escutia's Scandalous Conduct via her VULGER INSULT of President Donald Trump, is growing as President Max Nikias faces a communal ........, and potentially fiscal backlash.   

USC Max Nikias and the Board of Trustees have an Image Crisis, again.

** Blogger's Notes: University of Southern California (USC) President Max Nikias is facing a growing universal condemnation of his/school's Vice-President for Government Relations (and former State Senator) Martha Escutia's SCANDALOUS CONDUCT at last weekend's California Democrat Party (CADEM) Convention in Sacramento (view photos of V.P. Escutia below). V.P. Escutia can be seen joining out-going CADEM Party Chairperson John Burton in a "F-Trump Chant (with Middle Finger Salute)". Multiple sources are commenting that the absence of condemnation of V.P. Escutia actions by the USC Administration, is an example of hypocrisy, in comparison to the ramifications (and firing of ) fprmer USC Football Coach Steve Sarkisian,in part for his INFAMOUS behavior at a "Salute to Troy Event". Further, community activists are also taking note of V.P. Escutia's silence regarding the Racist Insult ("Go back to India") directed at unsuccessful (and later controversial) CD-1 City Council Candidate Joe Bray-Ali, at a contentious Pico Union Candidate Forum, which she attended. President Nikias CONTINUING absence in not formally responding to the recent behavior of V.P. Escutia (and her underlings, including David Galaviz and Zul Surani), does not bid well for an University (embroiled in Scandalous Conduct), future communal relations----Scott Johnson.

USC Vice-President (and former State Senator) Martha Escutia's Obscene Disrespect of President Donald Trump at last weekend's California Democrat Party Convention.

Former USC Football Coach Steve Sarkisian's INFAMOUS conduct at "Salute to Troy Event".

Out-going California Democrat Party Chairperson John Burton leading a vulger, "F-Trump (with Midddle Finger) Chant".

Who is engaging in a Vulger Insult of the President of the United States?

No one should be laughing or clapping regarding the repugnant behavior of California Democrats.

HOT Briefs on the "University of Scandalous Conduct (USC)" Scene for Monday

 The Institutional Culture of the, NOW "University of Scandalous Conduct (aka. USC)" continuous its devolution as Class, Loyalty and Respect for Rules, becomes the exception under the Leadership of President Max Nikias. 

USC President Max Nikias overseeing his Administration's "Initiatives of Conquest", in pursuing its communal agendas.

** Blogger's Notes: It readily apparent in reviewing recent news items involving the "University of Scandalous Conduct's (aka. USC)" regarding actions of its Administration, communal allies, along with a certain "Former Politico, NOW USC Vice-President" at this past weekend's Democrat State Convention .........., that Loyalty, Respect for Rules and CLASS, are now the EXCEPTION under the supposed leadership of President Max Nikias, as we note below----Scott Johnson.

Can you FIND the current USC Vice-President, formerly known as Democratic State Senator Martha Escutia, who is clapping and laughing as out-going California Democratic Party Chairperson leads a "F$%# Trump Chant"?

CLASS: President Nikias, Board of Trustee and ESPECIALLY current/future Republican Donors should take serious notice of USC Vice-President for Government Relations Martha Escutia's actions at this past weekend's California Democrat Convention. The former State Senator can be CLEARLY seen laughing and clapping (with LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis and Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi), as out-going State Democrat Party Chairperson John Burton led a "F$%# Trump Chant (with a One Finger Salute)". Many discerning news observers will remember a certain "Ex. Football Coach" who embarrass the University with his drunken conduct ..........., and likewise, the President Donald Trump Administration, along with the Republican-controlled Congress and Senate, are likely ............, NOT to forget V.P. Escutia's actions when USC seeks future Federal Funding.

"Lil Bill" Flournoy reamins loyal to the USC Cycling Community .........., while the "University of Scandalous Conduct" shames itself with its apparent accomonidations (to family members) of the Political Establishment.

LOYALTY: Community Activists (along with thousands of petition signers) have/are taking NOTICE of the "University of Scandalous Conduct's" treatment, more like Act of Disloyal targeting the Flournoy Family-owned "Bill's Bike Shop". The abhorrant treatment of the 40 years plus, business endeavor of Father Bill and Son Arron (aka. Lil Bill") is a MAJOR CAUSE for interest when reviewing the "considerations granted" to those currently employed by the University. The "Community Ombudsman" for the University Village Project which is responsible for the UPROOTING/EXPULSION of Bill's Bike Shop .........., is STEVE (younger Brother of Herb) WESSON, who was allegedly under-qualified for the Six-figures Salary Position. Its apparent, again that the USC Administration under President Nikias, is more accomindating to the local Political Establishment (and its needy family members) than a small, Father and Son Business, with decades of service to its University Community.

Lincoln Heights Neighborhood Council Land Use & Development Committee Chairperson Mario Marrufo, respects NO RULES in placing his Sister (and removing Board Members) on the Comm. under his charge.

RESPECT FOR RULES (NAUGHT): The University of Scandalous Conduct is seeking support for a Corporate Welfare Scheme that would grant LA County-owned Properties (with LA County Board of Supervisor Hilda Solis support) for its ambitious Biotech Corridor Project ........., but not without concerns from the surrounding community. In response to those concerns, LA County Board of Supervisor Hilda Solis recommended hiring an Outreach Consultant to engage Stakeholders, That said, USC and its Communal Enablers are not waiting for feedback as they disregard Rules (and the Brown Act allegedly), in crafting Support Letters for the Project, as witnessed with the actions of the Lincoln Heights Neighborhood Council. We noted previously that the LHNC Land Use & Development Committee, Presided by Mario Marrufo, held a meeting that was allegedly, not in complience with the Brown Act, where support for the Brown Act Violation was approved. Yet, dispite of the legalities, the EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, was the entity that placed the Approval of a Biotech Support Leader on the April LHNC Agenda. We should note that Marrufo had remove LHNC Board Members from the LU & D Committee ..............., and installed his SISTER, without Public Hearing. More later----Scott Johnson.

What's BLOGGIN Trending for the Last Week of March?

The last week of campaigning for the April 4, 34th Congressional District Special Election, kickoff of CD 1 Runoff Cedillo Campaign, return of STOLEN Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Council Property ...... and the NEWLY-assigned Captain of the LAPD's Hollenbeck Division, are some of the TRENDING bloggin topics for this last week of March, 2017.

What is BLOGGIN Trending on Mayor Sam?? 

** Blogger's Notes: Great Sunday night to all as we return to our cyber musings ........., and with SO MUCH topics pending, we begin our bloggin week in briefly noting TRENDING topics, with more substantive coverage following later in the week-----Scott Johnson. 

** Bloggin Joy and Double Joy!! For us LUCKY constituents within the 34th Congressional District, we are little more than a week away from selecting the next Democrat to collect a Federal Pay Check for decades to come, as the replacement for now California Attorney General Xavier Becerra. Surely, this week will a blue-tinted "Dust Storm" of attacks, counterattacks ........., and our bloggin expose on certain candidates (think ....... surprises to come), with political baggage.. 

** Its Runoff Cedillo 2017 Time!! Was the embattled CD City Councilman Gil "Runoff Cedillo" feigning his "Moment of Remorse" for his Election Night Personal Attack targeting May Challenger Joe Bray-Ali, considering recent comments from Cedillo Associates that includes, calling Joe a former Republican, insinuating he that can't pay his taxes ......., and cannot run a business. These comments, coming from the Campaign Team that features the likes of Mario "740 Club (and Sherrilynn's Pal)" Beltran and CONVICTED FELON Larry "I am NATIVO!!" Lopez.

Read more »

HOT Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Tuesday

We're back ........ on bloggin assignments in 2017, as we commence our expanding, New Year Coverage on the discombobulated, State, County and City Hall One Party Political Establishment, reeling from the aftermath of the November Election of President-Elect Donald Trump.

Our expanding Bloggin Assignments in 2017.

** Blogger's Notes: We're back!!  Happy 2017 to all as a discombobulated, "Cubafornia on the Pacific", One Party Political Machine, along with their LA County Gang of Five Politburo and Ciudad de Los Angeles City Clowncil Central Committee Bretherns, return to working on behalf of constituents, both legal .........., or especially, NAUGHT, tomorrow. The Seventeenth Year after "Y2K", promises to be a "365 Days Episode of Political Anxiety" as the Sacrahavana-controlling Cubafornianistas/Democratic Leadership awaits the actions of the incoming, President-Elect Donald Trump Administration. But here at Mayor Sam, we PROUDLY stand with Four Million-plus Californian Voters, in espousing Self-empowerment, Free Enterprise, Law & Order, Lower Taxes and a Corruption-free, Limited Government. That stated, 2017 promises to be a bloggin-breakout year, as we venture beyond our normal 200 Spring Street-centric coverage, to engage topics in the county and state domain. As always, your story tips and comments are MUCH appreciated via emailing us at redspotincd14@yahoo.com-----Scott Johnson in CD 14.   

HOOOODY HOO!! Its the 2017 Edition of the Zuma Dogg for Mayor Campaign.

Via the You Tube Page of Zuma Dogg for Mayor.

** Among the 77 certified Candidates for the upcoming March, 2017 Elections is a FAMILIAR figure to our longtime, cyber audience as former Mayor Sam Blogger David "Zuma Dogg" Saltsburg has again, qualified as a candidate to unseat Mayor Eric Garcetti, Zuma Dogg joins San Fernando Valley Activist David Hernandez as repeat mayoral candidates,  via their respective 2009 Campaigns that inflicted mortal damage (along with Walter Moore)  on then, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa's Sacramento aspirations.

Is LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis engaging in stealth outreach to promote USCs Biotech Corridor ambitions?

LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis (Blue Jacket) with USC President Max Nikias. 

** Rumors and speculation are making the rounds in the community surrounding the USC Health Science Campus that LA County Board of Supervisor Hilda Solis. is choreographing a public-denying, stealth campaign to garner the needed support for USCs ambitious Biotech Corridor Project. According to sources, Supervisor Solis is working with willing Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), who in return would receive FUTURE FUNDING for choreographing positive public testimony. 

Will former Supervisor Solis Chief of Staff and East Los Angeles Community Corp (ELACC) Executive Director Maria Cabildo, join the crowded field of candidates seeking to replace Congressman Xavier Becerra?

Maria Cabildo with Ron Calderon.

** The LA Times is reporting that former LA County Board of Supervisor Hilda Solis Chief of Staff Maria Cabildo, is the latest name of interest, considering joining the crowded field of candidates, seeking to replace Congressman Xavier Becerra.  

Bloggin Memo to Mayor Garcetti: "When will USC join the Rams in Paying for LAPD Security"?

With Los Angeles Rams Owner Stan Kroenke agreeing to, "Pay in Full", for city services associated with the temporary hosting of the Inglewood-based NFL Franchise at the University of Southern California (USC)-managed Memorial Coliseum, we ask Mayor Garcetti when USC will agree to do the same in regards to public costs for its Football Games ............, and whether if the PRIVATE University's hiring of former City of LA Public Officials (along with associates and family members) is the reason for its largess of Crony/Corporate Welfare. 

USC President Max Nikias, with Mayor Eric Garcetti, LAPD Chief Charlie Beck and LA County District Attorney Jackie Lacey.

LAPD Motor Cop patrolling Coliseum Parking Lot during USC Football Game.

** Blogger's Note: We want to give bloggin kudos to former CD 3 City Councilman Dennis Zine, Citizen Plaintiff James Bibeau, the Police Protective League for their joint endeavor in forcing the City of Los Angeles to successfully, seek full restitution, from a willing/cooperative Los Angeles Rams Owner Stan Kroenke, for the cost of city services, associated with the temporary hosting of LA Rams Football ......, at the University of Southern California (USC)-managed Coliseum.

You are forgiven if your respective political memories are lacking in remembering that Los Angeles largest PRIVATE University, is now the managing-landlord of the historic stadium .........., thanks to a litigious, Brown Act-violating Deal with the Coliseum Commission (that included the Commission Member wife of City Council President Herb Wesson), which granted USC Millions of Dollars in Stadium Revenue, in return for the University assuming the upkeep and management responsibilities. 

That stated, we were somewhat conflicted when former Councilman Zine and co-plaintiff initiated their worthy lawsuit targeting the Rams .........., and not the Coliseum Landlord, who in an ideal world, should be the party responsible for incorporating the cost of event security (via consultation with Public Officials) into its respective rental agreements. 

Thus, in lieu of the agreement brokered between the City of Los Angeles and the Rams, we must ask whether the original intent of the now "Citizen Zine Lawsuit", is still outstanding considering that City Hall has yet to force the Billion Dollars-plus Endowed, PRIVATE University to reimburse the General Fund for its continuing FREE GIFT of Taxpayers Largess.

Its of interest to note that the deal between the Rams and City Hall, was delayed because of "concerns", via USC Administrators, that they may be held to the same standard as reported in the LA Times.

Garcetti said Tuesday that the original arrangement for security at Rams games — with the team paying for security officers inside the stadium while the city paid for officers outside — mirrored that for the USC Trojans. He said one reason the new deal with the Rams had taken weeks to work out was that the college was worried that it too might be required to pay for a police presence at football games. “We can work on that long-term,” Garcetti said. 

With no apologies with the Second Term-seeking Mayor, we have to question why an agreement that USC pay its full cost of needed, finite Police and other department's resources, for their under-achieving Football Program, is a long term priority ........, and whether USC's proclivities in hiring former City of LA Public Officials, or family members of current Officeholders is the "real reason" for continuing the arraignment ..........., considering:

First, as reported here at Mayor Sam, the younger brother of City Council President Herman Wesson, was hired by the University to serve as the mega-USC Village Project Ombudsman, despite accusations that he was "under-qualified" for the six-figures salary position.  

Second, former LAPD Deputy Chief Earl Paysinger (and allegedly, his "favorite Secretary") was recently hired by the University to lead its Civic Engagement's "Good Neighbor Program".  

When the hiring of Steve Wesson and Earl Paysinger, are added to numerous other Public Officials who have ended up enjoying a paid, after-life as an USC Employee (including an Ahhh Ex Failure Mayor), then its no surprise why the PRIVATE institution is the recipient of  Corporate Welfare ........., via the City Of Los Angeles General Fund.  

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Mayor Sam Exclusive: HOT "University of Scandalous Conduct (USC)" Controversy for Monday

 The "University of Scandalous Conduct (aka USC)" President Max Nikias and his Board of Trustees have another Controversy to contend with, as non-student residents of North University Park initiate complaints regarding the USC Department of Public Safety's lack of enforcement diligence, in regulating off-campus, student party houses.

USC President Max Nikias presiding over the continuing wrecking of communal quality of life around its campuses. 

The USC Party Houses.

** Blogger's Note: In a Mayor Sam Exclusive,, we have obtain a copy of a Complaint Letter to LAPD Southwest Division Captain Gerald Woodyard, regarding the "University of Scandalous Conduct (USC)" Department of Public Safety's lack of diligence in regulating off-campus Student House Parties. In the letter crafted by North University Park Resident Yosef Azri'el, the author notes that USC's Department of Public Safety is in possible violation of a Memorandum of Understanding between itself and LAPD regarding the regulation of Student House Parties. Further, residents are upset that their complaints to USC's DPS are being whitewashed/deleted from Daily Crime Logs. We have posted the Letter of Complaint below for your review. To be continued ---- Scott Johnson. 

USC Department of Public Safety Complaint Letter, Page 1.

USC Department of Public Safety Complaint Letter, Page 2

Evening Update: Did USC/Supervisor Hilda Solis Discriminate in the Expulsion of Stakeholder/Blogger from supposed "PRIVATE" Meeting?

In an Evening Update to a Mayor Sam Exclusive, we present Photographic Evidence of the Deliberate Targeting of a certain "Hazard Park Preservation Committee (HPPC) Member (and Mayor Sam Blogger)" for Expulsion from a PRIVATE USC/Supervisor Hilda Solis Meeting .........., while supposed fellow ........., while supposed fellow HPPC members Ray and Ruth Rios, remained silent.    

Photo Caption: Ray and Ruth Rios of the Hazard Park Preservation Committee, Supervisor Solis, USC President Max Nikias.

Ray Rios wearing Hazard Park Preservation Committee Shirt. 

** Blogger's Note:  In an Evening Update to our today's Mayor Sam Exclusive, we have obtained Photographical Documentation of this Blogger's  (and Hazard Park Preservation Committee Member) EXPULSION from a PRIVATE USC/Supervisor Hilda Solis-Meeting at the old County Hospital, now Wellness Center. In the photo below, it can be CLEARLY visualize that a female staff member of The Wellness Center, is directing this writer to leave the supposed PRIVATE meeting (this blogger is seated, in green Hazard Park Preservation Committee Shirt,  "third from the left in back of the room, facing the female Wellness Center Staffer). Further, Wellness Center Staff Member Nick Moghadassi (in white shirt and badge is on the immediate right, standing in back of the room, left of pillar). Further, we have photographed a copy of the PRIVATE Meeting Agenda, that show Staff Member Mogadassi's contact information which identifies him as the person stating that I vacate the supposed "exclusive gathering". For the Record, the photo above via Supervisor Solis Website, notes that Ray and Ruth Rios were representing, the Hazard Park Preservation Committee ........, and the photo below was taken by ........., supposed Hazard Park Preservation Committee Member Ray Rios----Scott Johnson. 

Photo documenting Wellness Center Staffer requesting that a certain Mayor Sam Blogger (and supposed Hazard Park Preservation Committee Member) vacated a PRIVATE Meeting.

Photo of supposed PRIVATE Meeting Agenda with contact information of Wellness Center Staffer Nick Modhadassi, who requested that Mayor Sam Blogger (and Hazard Park Preservation Committee Member) vacate the proceedings. 

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14

Mayor Sam Exclusive: USC/Supervisor Hilda Solis's PRIVATE Biotech Corridor Outreach Meeting (Only Hand-picked Community Members Invited))

 In a Mayor Sam Exclusive (before being told to leave), we have photos from a PRIVATE USC/LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis Meeting at the old General Hospital (now Wellness Center), with SELECTED community members regarding the proposed Biotech Corridor, that usurp the Spirit of Openness and Transparent Governess/Dialog ......., with ALL Stakeholders. 

Photo Caption: Ray and Ruth Rios of the Hazard Park Preservation Committee, Supervisor Solis, USC President Max Nikias.

** Blogger's Note: In a Mayor Sam Exclusive, we disclose via photos posted below of a PRIVATE meeting orchestrated by public/private tandem of LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis and the University of Southern California (USC) at the former General Hospital (now Wellness Center), regarding USC's ambitious Biotech Corridor plans. 

For the Record, the Mayor Sam Blog received a tip regarding this meeting and ATTEMPTED to partake in observing the proceedings ........., but was told by a staff member (Nick Moghadassi) of The Wellness Center that this was a PRIVATE EVENT. Thus, this blogger/community stakeholder was politely TOLD to leave.

Beginning of PRIVATE USC/Supervisor Hilda Solis Meeting as Wellness Center Staff Member (on right with electronic gadget) ask Stakeholder/Blogger to vacate the proceedings.

This Act of Excluding Stakeholders (and a discerning Media) runs contrary to a previous pronouncement from Supervisor Solis regarding the need of USC to embrace the Greater Community in Dialog regarding their Biotech Corridor ambitions. 

Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis on February 26 called on the University of Southern California to embrace and support community residents as it moves forward with plans to build a biotech research park at its Health Sciences campus, adjacent to Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center. To be successful, USC must design its research park to ensure “people are invited to come down the hill, or across the freeway or even from the other side of town” to work or study at the campus, Supervisor Solis said. 

We would like to give the benefit of the doubt that Supervisor Solis is true to her words regarding USC' need "to embrace and support community residents (not just those supportive enablers being offered Trojan largess, allegedly), but in witnessing ysterday's proceedings (before our expulsion), the words above smack of empty, meaningless verbiage, considering the exclusiveness of those invited ........., who included the following;

Former LA-32 Neighborhood Council President Marleen Fonseca (formerly Caudillo): Fonseca (formerly Caudillo), who's ethically/character-challenged proclivities have been well documented, recently attempted to block a successful LA-32 Motion, supporting a $250,000 Grant via former Supervisor Gloria Molina, for Tree Planting/Youth Vocational Training at Hazard Park.

Legacy LA supporters: In attendance were the Ramona Gardens supporters of Legacy LA who had the dubious distinctions of being expose of misusing Public Funds (ie. writing checks to self) and supporting Liquor Licenses for 7 Eleven.

Ray Rios (on the right).

Ray and Ruth Rios of the Hazard Park Preservation Committee: The Husband (when not engaging in physical altercations) and Wife Duo (who are also members of the Hillside Village Property Owners Association), have fail to contact their fellow committee members (including this blogger for the record) about their involvement in these PRIVATE proceedings, while enabling the political agenda of CD-14 City Councilman Jose Huizar (and condoning USC's past actions) .

While we are not surprise that the "University of Scandalous Conduct" would seek out those within the community with past episodes of ethical/character-challenged behavior, we must question whether the supposed environmental and working class advocate Supervisor Solis, is a willing partner in associating with those (including USC), who's past actions have had an adverse impact on the greater community, in supporting a project that will have a potential, profound future impact on ALL stakeholders/neighbors surrounding the proposed, Biotech Corridor Project Area?-----Scott Johnson.

Mayor Sam Exclusive: Who is REALLY LA-32 NC Board Member (and new Land Use Committee Chairperson) Miguel Eduardo Vargas??

In a Mayor Sam Exclusive, we disclose another new LA-32 Neighborhood Council Board Member Miguel Vargas, who was Open and Transparency-challenged in noting to NC Stakeholders, his true "Professional Background" when campaigning for the supposed Community-representing entity.

 Who is the REAL LA-32 NC West Region Candidate "Miguel Eduardo Vargas"?

** Blogger's Note: In yet ............., another Mayor Sam Exclusive on the current Councilman Jose Huizar, uber-controlled,LA-32 Neighborhood Council, we bring you a "DIRTY MOVIDA (with no apologies to the current NC President)" in being  Open and Transparency-challenged, regarding disclosing your TRUE-connected, Profession Background when seeking Public Office.

In the recent LA-32 NC Election, the NC link on the Empower LA Website contained the following Bio on West Region Candidate "Miguel Eduardo Vargas (with no photo attached)" for review.

I grew up in El Sereno as a kid and now, as an adult, I have bought my first house in Hillside Village. It has always been my dream to return to the beautiful neighborhood in which I grew up. Throughout my life, I have always felt it necessary to give back to my community which is why I volunteer for church fundraisers, participate in community cleanups, and am a LAPD Booster member. At this point of my life, I'd like to get more involved with the El Sereno community and ensure our neighborhood is receiving the services we deserve. I enjoying reading, bicycling, hiking, making kites and perfecting my salsa. -Miguel Eduardo Vargas

Vargas, garnered a total of 36 votes in finishing second to recent Cal State LA Grad and Cesar Chavez Elementary LA Best Employee Kathy Leal (42 votes), within the Top Three for the available West Region Seats.

But as we note below, Vargas like Leal, conveniently omitted from their respective Campaign Bios, pertinent information regarding "Professional/Political Connections" that may have caused voting Stakeholders to question the objectivity of the, NOW........., NC Board Members.

Meet the REAL USC Graduate, former Councilman Huizar Staffer, current Downtown Arts Business Improvement District (BID) Executive Director ........., and now LA-32 NC Vice-President/ Land Use & Development Committee Chairperson Miguel Vargas. 

From the Downtown News.

Effective April 6, the organization that provides cleaning, safety and other services to the growing community will be helmed by Miguel Vargas, the legislative deputy for 14th District City Councilman José Huizar. Vargas, a University of Southern California graduate, has worked for Huizar for three years. Dilip Bhavnani, the chairman of the board of directors for the ADLA BID, described Vargas as “extremely hard working, dedicated and passionate — a person who is going to be an invaluable resource in the neighborhood.” Huizar spokesman Rick Coca said the councilman is happy for Vargas’ upward move. “It’s great,” said Coca. “The councilmember has always been one to encourage people to take the next step forward, and this is clearly the next step forward.”

In lieu of our earlier post, regarding the recent Electoral Hard Times afflicting current and ex Huizar Staffers, we can understand why Vargas would want to keep his "Huizar Past" undisclosed. But with Vargas selection as the NC's Vice-President ..........., and appointment as Chairperson on the Land Use & Development Committee, discerning Stakeholders (with the exception of USC) are surely to question his objectivity in facilitating the duties of the important Committee.

........, for another bloggin exclusive on your uber-controlling Political Behavior.

Your thoughts ..............
Scott Johnson in CD 14
(For the Record, a former LA-32 NC Board Member)

HOT Morning Briefs on the Los Angeles Political Machine for Monday

The once anti-establishment darling of the Los Angeles City Council, CD 4's David Ryu, is exposed by the Los Angeles Times in using his "power of office" to block a Bernie Sanders Rally at the city-owned Greek Theater, while a Fundraiser/Concert for his endorsed candidate Hillary Clinton, takes place tonight at the same location.  

Call CD 4 City Councilman David Ryu at (213) 473-7004 and inquire why he allegedly breached ethical standards in blocking the Bernie Sanders Campaign use of the Greek Theater.

** On the eve of the California Primary Elections, a once anti-establishment underdog, now CD 4 City Councilman David Ryu, has sadly shown his inner-establishment persona, when it comes to using his "power of office" to block a campaign event for the Anti-Establishment Democratic Presidential Candidate Bernie Sanders (allegedly). In a Saturday LA Times David Zahniser missive, the Hillary endorsing CD 4 Officeholder, is outed for interfering/obstructing negotiation between the city staff operators of the Greek Theater and the Sanders Campaign, regarding a proposed event at the location. According to the Sanders Campaign, Councilman Ryu's Office unethical meddling caused the proposed Saturday event at the Greek, to be relocated to the Coliseum .........., where close to 15,000 people indulge in "The Berning Man" festivities.

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46th District Assemblyman Adrin Nazarian.

The out-going 43rd District Infant Assemblyman Lil Mikey Gatto.

** As the brief political career of an Infant Assemblyman, turned racial cleanser "Slobo Mikey" Gatto nears its appointed, termed-out sunset, the old racially-tinged habits of finding blame (especially within his Armenian constituents), spilled out onto the Floor of the Legislature last week. According to the Sacramento Bee (with video link), the former "Silver Lake, Stay at Home Officeholder" was his petulant self in attacking 46th District Assemblyman (and former Paul Krekorian staffer) Adrin Nazarian for lying regarding verbiage within a Bill regarding screening of rideshare (Uber) drivers, Nazarian, who is backing the main challenger to Gatto's endorsed candidate, took umbrage to his character being besmirched ........, to be continued.

USC President Max Nikias.

USC Community Outreach Employee Zul Surani.

** Memo to USC President Max Nikias and Board of Trustees, please consider drafting a directive to your community outreach employees about the pratfalls of becoming involve in communal politics (ie. Neighborhood Council Elections). Last Wednesday, Zul Surani was seen engaging in the electing of the new LA-32 NC Executive Committee, supporting those favored by out-going President Marleen Fonseca (formerly Terminated LAPD Employee "Marleen Caudillo"). Its blatantly obvious that there are those within your employment that have not learn the lesson of David Galaviz, who was much reviled (and rewarded) for exploiting the Youth Vote in Lincoln Heights for your Universities (and his) interest. Thus President Nikias, we STRONGLY recommend that your staff remain impartial in engaging ALL community members in the spirit of truthful Openness and Transparency and not seek out those who will sell out their neighbors for a "consulting check". BTW, please have Zul work on fixing the "Restroom Issue at Hazard Park", oriinating from your "Mission Accomplish Moment/Campaign Photo Op for Jose Huizar .........., to be continued.

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

Scott Johnson in CD 14