The Barb Stanton Show: Request for Investigation & Recount

INTERESTING FROM HIGHLAND COMMUNITY NEWS

Newspapers, public must take more responsibility for election of public officials

By Charles Roberts, Editor, Highland Community News

“They didn’t become scalawags the day they were elected,” said San Bernardino County Supervisor Josie Gonzales as she addressed the Democratic Luncheon Club Friday.

Speaking of elected officials, she advised, “Look at how they treat their families, their neighbors.”

She said questionable candidates should be culled out well before the election, and blamed the electorate for putting crooks into office.

“You are the beneficiaries of bad government,” she said. “And you are the beneficiaries of good government.”

She also took a swipe at County Supervisor Neil Derry for his choice of staff members, but added that supervisors have control over staff member choices, and her job is to work with everyone to get things done for the good of her constituents.

“I will work with anyone to deliver the services you need,” she said.

It’s worked well for her. She is now in the sixth month of her second term, and “so far, everything I put forward has been accepted.”

Noting that District Attorney Michael Ramos has not completed the investigation of former Assessor Bill Postmus, Gonzales said she asked Ramos point blank if he (Ramos) had been involved in anything illegal or extramarital, and he assured her he had not.

She urged him not to defraud and “do not bend to pressure.

She said she has continued to support Ramos, and still does until she is proved wrong in her trust.

She had high praise for County Administrative Officer Mark Uffer (“a good man, says it like it is”) and economic consultant John Husing (“honest, straight shooter”).

On the subject of the Grand Jury, she said one year is too short a term for members, and they should be given more power.

On campaign contributions, she said she works to be transparent, and criticized shadow committees that operate just inside the boundaries of the law and take little or no responsibility for questionable mailers and other mudslinging activities, and urged better investigation of political activities.

“There was a time when newspapers did that, but they have fallen by the wayside,” she observed. “Where are the reporters who have the tools and the right (to investigate)?”

Still, she sees no need for an ethics commission, calling it “baby sitting in disguise.”

While agreeing that ethics should be taught in school, she said adults should know what is right and wrong and do what is right.

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Request for Investigation & Recount

THIS IS AN EXACT COPY OF COMPLAINT FILED BY CANDIDATE FOR 1ST DISTRICT SUPERVISOR
AND BARSTOW ATTORNEY:

Robert D. Conaway
Post Office Box 865
Barstow, CA 92312-0865

June 4, 2008

Ms. Debra Bowen

Secretary of State

1500 11th Street

Sacramento, CA 95814 fax (916) 653-3214

Re: Request for Investigation & Recount - San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters

Dear Secretary Bowen:

On election night this June, I was observing the counting machines on the paper ballots (or at least trying to).

With the recent remodel of the San Bernardino County Voter Registrar, the view window immediately opposite from the voting machines was moved to a 90 degree angle from the public observation area. Rolling stacking trays were put in front of the closest voting machines (making observation of the first 4 machines impossible), viewing machines numbered 5-6 possible, and the balance of the machines, impossible.

The paper ballots were not put into the machines until approximately 11:00 am. At about 11:20 am, machine No. 6 (which took me thirty minutes to get the number of) was jambing, feeding in clumps (e.g. three or four out of a stack of 50 ballots came out, a 5-10 second pause, and then a group of ballots spurted out, jambed & forcing the machine to be cleared and refed or they came out overlapping each other two at a time). The jambing was being observed by a number of observers (Mike Curran and John Putko). I believe there were undercounts as a result of the machine malfunction and the unwillingness of the registrar's staff to intervene. Machine number 5 appeared to be operating correctly with none of the overlapping ballots coming (when I say overlapping, one ballot was an inch behind the lead ballot and both were coming out at the same time)

I complained to James Hakala through a sheriff observer left in the room.

Hakala in an elevated tone of voice and confrontive tone said what I was describing coming out of machine No. 6 was not possible, despite visual observation of same. Despite the low turn out, and the availability of other machines, machine No. 6 was not taken off line.

What makes this even more remarkable, is that knowing the ballot count process was being questioned, the ballots that had been fed on machine No. 6 with the problems, were not separately stacked or segregated, but were returned to bins with the ballots from the other machines and no other record was made of the precincts that were fed through that machine, making an isolated recount of the output of that machine impossible (a nice way to frustrate a subsequent investigation).

Letter to Secretary of State Deborah Bowen - Page 2 of 2

Undercounting might be suggested by looking at a number of odd number outcomes. In the race my wife was in, in the piece of the 25th Congressional District that is in San Bernardino County she had 3,598 votes as of 1:00 am on June 4, 2008– in an area that
was roughly three time larger, I received a grand total of 2,173 in a non-partisan race. While I note the numbers, I am not suggesting the outcome on those limited facts would change the outcome for me–for another candidate, perhaps (e.g. Rita Vogler). I mention them as evidence of potential undercounts occasioned by a malfunctioning machine and the registrar's refusal to take the machine off line.

In the 41st Congressional District, the final vote margins between three top democratic candidates was roughly 1,500. A machine undercounting ballots could have made the difference.

In addition in prior elections, as the registrar knows, the registrar reported false counts–that might also explain the undercounts.

I think this registrar's office needs to be (1) investigated for the alleged continued use of an obviously malfunctioning machine and counseled as to appropriate mitigation and evidence preservation steps in the event of a future repeating circumstance, (2) that the tabulation software needs to be checked again and the ballots re-run to make sure the vote drop off is not machine read-related, (3) that the voting area observation window should be moved so that all machines can be monitored for future elections and (4) the Secretary of State should put their own monitor in place for the upcoming November election.

Respectfully submitted,

BOB CONAWAY

cc: Kari Virjil
San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters
777 East Rialto Avenue
San Bernardino, CA 92415-0770
Fax (909) 387-2022

From FlashReport

IT'S NOT ABOUT YOU, ANTHONY ADAMS

Jon Coupal, President, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association

June 15, 2009

[Publisher's Note: As part of an ongoing effort to bring original, thoughtful commentary to you here at the FlashReport, I am pleased to present this column from Jon Coupal. Coupal is the President of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association - Flash]

If you are new to the FlashReport, please check out the main site and the acclaimed FlashReport Weblog on California politics.

A great line from Carly Simon’s You’re So Vain is “you probably think this song is about you.” Well, if you are reading this, Anthony Adams, rest assured that this column is not about you. It is about reasonable taxpayer expectations.

Some brief history: Anthony Adams is the Assemblyman who represents parts of Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties who, along with two others in the Assembly, broke ranks with GOP colleagues to provide the votes needed to approve a $12 billion tax increase in February. That increase was part of a package that included putting Proposition 1A on the ballot which would have dealt taxpayers another $16 billion blow.

Since casting votes which inflicted irreparable harm to already overburdened taxpayers, Adams has taken the position that those votes were actually courageous because they prevented California from “going off a cliff.” For the record, there are those who describe Adam’s actions in more colorful and less flattering language.

Adams is a first term legislator who was elected to office by ordinary folks who work hard to look after their families, keep a roof over their heads and put food on the table, while at the same time generously paying high taxes to support others who cannot, or will not, support themselves. In this economy, many of these same voters now have a new challenge – holding on to their jobs and homes. So, after Adams voted to increase taxes that were already the highest in the nation, it is no surprise that many of his constituents now support an effort to remove him via recall. They cannot, they say, afford to take the chance that Adams will remain in office long enough to cast any more of his “courageous” votes.

Now in survival mode, Adams has abandoned his base of working taxpayers and sought the protection of the governor and the financial support of the “tuxedo class” to preserve his office.

Some argue that any recall of legislators who violated their written pledges to voters is a waste of time and money. What’s the point anyway when Adams can be challenged in the primary election just 12 months away? Is the recall effort just an over the top response by reactionaries seeking revenge, or is there a legitimate basis for resort to this tool of direct democracy?

First, it would be difficult to argue that Adam’s own actions would not provide substantial grounds for immediate dismissal from a private sector job. His foremost transgressions would clearly constitute “job fraud,” which is described as “fraudulent or deceptive activity or representation on the part of an employee…toward an employer.” There can be little debate that Adams misrepresented his views to his employer – voters – prior to the election.

Want proof? A mailer Adams sent out asking for votes states “I will oppose any attempt to raise taxes.” Additionally, Adams signed the following, “I Anthony Adams, pledge to the taxpayers of the 59th Assembly District of the State of California and to all the people of this state, that I will oppose and vote against any and all efforts to increase taxes.”

And there is absolutely no evidence that enhanced interrogation techniques were used to compel Adams to make these declarations. The principal of “no new taxes” was clearly represented by Adams as a core belief and commitment and was presented to the public as a reason to elect him to office.

And that is what distinguishes his situation from all the Democrats who voted for the tax increases. That is precisely the behavior we expect from the majority party. And we are aware of no Democrat legislator in California who has signed the no tax pledge.

Some argue that all Republicans who voted for the tax increases should be recalled. While there is some merit behind that position, the other Republicans who voted for the “grand deal” either did not sign the pledge or are termed out of office. Adams situation, when taken as a whole, is different: A first termer who is now equally strident about defending his anti-taxpayer vote as he was strident about being a defender of taxpayer interests before the election.

There is another reason why the current Adams recall is wholly justified: Those Californians who do not live off the public dime want to make sure that those legislators who claim to represent the interests of taxpayers will continue to do so. Every member of the California Legislature is now constantly being pressured to save this or that program by the conga line of special interests now testifying in budget committees. Quite frankly, those who pay the bills don’t have time to travel to Sacramento to engage in this mindless dance. Recalling a legislator who stabbed us in the back is a good way to remind other legislators that there are certain acts which are unforgivable and punishable by the political death penalty known as recall.
_______________________________________________

The mission statement of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Assocation reads:

The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association is dedicated to the protection of Proposition 13 and the advancement of taxpayers' rights including the right to limited taxation, the right to vote on tax increases and the right of economical, equitable and efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

Accomplished taxpayer advocate and prominent attorney Jon Coupal, as President of the HJTA, heads up an organization that plays a critical role here in the Golden State . Beginning with the passage of Proposition 13 in 1978, the HJTA has consistently been the lead organization looking out for the rights of California taxpayers. In literally EVERY major battle that occurs in Sacramento, where the forces of irresponsible government growth are trying to figure out another scheme to raise taxes or fees to redistribute taxpayer funds to the latest 'must fund' program, Jon and the HJTA are there to ask the tough questions, and to wave a big stick. You see, the HJTA doesn't just talk the talk. Whether leading efforts to get their many, many grassroots members to lobby their elected officials, going to court to fight illegal tax increases, or marshaling resources to take tax-protection measures to the electorate, HJTA has been there. But not just on a statewide level, but also at the local level -- fighting against local bond measures and fee-increase schemes that seek to unduly and unfairly burden taxpayers.

MAKE THE CALL....GET INVOLVED...SAVE OUR CITIES....SOC

California League of Cities

asks citizens to make calls to our legislatures to

‘SAVE OUR CITIES’ (S0C)

Call and tell the Governor and our elected officials that 'WE THE PEOPLE' demand they do not divert monies from our cities and towns.

More than 2 billion dollars is expected to be seized by the state!

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger- (916) 445-2841

Assembly Member Anthony Adams (916) 319-2059

Assembly Member Paul Cook (916) 319-2065

Assembly Member Steve Knight (916) 319-2016

Assembly Member Connie Conway (916) 319-2034

Senator Dave Cox (916) 651-4001

Senator George Runner (916) 651- 4017

Senator Roy Ashburn (916) 651-4018

MITZELFELT SAYS, "I DID NOT ATTEND FUNDRAISER"

Thank you to Supervisor Brad Mitzelfelt who clarified his association with Assemblyman Anthony Adams and Adams recent fundraiser which featured the Governor.

San Bernardino County Supervisor Brad Mitzelfelt clarified the information on a printed invitation which is shown below this article. The invitation stated that the supervisor was on the Host Committee and in support of Assemblyman Anthony Adams fund raising activities.

In a phone call today the Supervisor stated, “I did not agree to be on the Host Committee.”

Mitzelfelt went on to say that the original event he was involved in was a fundraiser in Victorville with Steve Poizner as guest speaker. Mitzelfelt said, “I had agreed to be on the Host Committee. Post that event it changed to the governor event. Adams used me on the host committee without permission.”

“I would have preferred to be asked again,” Mitzelfelt stated. “I did not go to the event. Anthony is my friend but I did not agree with his vote on the budget.”

Mitzelfelt mentioned the recalls that have been filed against 59^th District Assemblyman Anthony Adams, “The recall is between him and the voters. I think this is an unfortunate situation, but we will just have to see how it goes.”

This bogus information was posted on Victorville's Website....thousands of jobs?

Victorville, CA - The City’s recently approved $568 million budget reflects funding for essential city services such as police and fire, as well as continued investment in job development.

According to City Manager Jon Roberts, the City currently invests in economic development to bring jobs and new services to Victorville.

Through the City’s efforts, thousands of manufacturing and logistics jobs have been created in town and at Southern California Logistics Airport (SCLA), as well as countless retail and service related jobs throughout the High Desert.

Last year, Newell-Rubbermaid opened its distribution center at SCLA creating some 150 jobs. This month Dr Pepper Snapple is set to begin construction on its west coast distribution facility creating 200 new jobs.

In addition to the creation of new jobs, the City’s investment into infrastructure has increased the City’s ability to offer new services such as paramedic service, crime reduction programs, and new road projects . This year the City will complete construction of a new park and fire station at Eucalyptus and Topaz.

“In these tough economic times, the City is reinvesting taxpayer dollars back into the economy,” said Roberts. “All of our economic development efforts come down to one simple concept, job creation.”

It is hard to understand the direction Victorville is going in. So far the majority of jobs created have been low paying and substandard. I certainly don't see the thousands of jobs that are mentioned in this article that was posted on their website.

A message to the City: 'You can fool some of the people...aw you know where I'm going with this one'
By the way: retail sales are down 15% in Victorville and up 35% in Apple Valley. Oh, Hesperia reports an 8% increase.....Barb

BOB NELSON OF HESPERIA GETS A BREAK

Thursday, May 14, 2009

NELSON GETS 3 YR PROBATION!

Bob Nelson, was sentenced this morning to a 90 day suspended sentence with three years probation in San Bernardino Courts by Commissioner Knish.

Nelson had been charged with disturbing the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors meeting by speaking mere seconds longer than the allowed three minutes.

On two occasions; May 13th and June 17th of last year Nelson attempted to continue his public input to the Board. Chairman Paul Biane had Nelson arrested and removed from the podium after Nelson stayed in control of the podium as another speaker approached.

Nelson, in a phone call immediately after the sentencing, sounded relieved and ready to move forward.

THE MARINE

THE MARINE

We all came together,
Both young and old
To fight for our freedom,
To stand and be bold.

In the midst of all evil,
We stand our ground,
And we protect our country
From all terror around.

Peace and not war,
Is what some people say.
But I'll give my life,
So you can live the American way.

I give you the right
To talk of your peace.
To stand in your groups,
and protest in our streets.

But still I fight on,
I don't bitch, I don't whine.
I'm just one of the people
Who is doing your time.

I'm harder than nails,
Stronger than any machine.
I'm the immortal soldier,
I'm a U.S. MARINE!

So stand in my shoes,
And leave from your home.
Fight for the people who hate you,
With the protests they've shown.
Fight for the stranger,
Fight for the young.
So they all may have,
The greatest freedom you've won

Fight for the sick,
Fight for the poor
Fight for the cripple,
Who lives next door.

But when your time comes,
Do what I've done.
For if you stand up for freedom,
You'll stand when the fight's done

By: Corporal Aaron M. Gilbert , US Marine Corps
USS SAIPAN, PERSIAN GULF

SOLDIER BEING COMFORTED

This statue currently stands ouside the Iraqi palace, now home to the 4th Infantry division. It will eventually be shipped home and put in the memorial museum in Fort Hood, Tx. The statue was created by an Iraqi artist named Kalat, who for years was forced by Saddam Hussein to make the many hundreds of bronze busts of Saddam that dotted Baghdad. Kalat was so grateful for the Americans liberation of his country. He melted 3 of the heads of the fallen Saddam and made the statue as a memorial to the American soldiers and their fallen warriors. Kalat worked on this memorial night and day for several months. To the left of the kneeling soldier is a small Iraqi girl giving the soldier comfort as he mourns the loss of his comrade in arms.

HAS CALIFORNIA SEIZED YOUR BANK ACCOUNT?

The state of California can and will seize unclaimed-property such as: cash, stocks, safe-deposit boxes and other property if there has been no activity within three years. It once had been a 15-year period.

Attempts to contact the owners has been minimal, if at all and the state has prospered. Approximately $736 million is expected in the unclaimed-property program this fiscal year, with a net of $442 million after owners claim seized property.

Banks or property holders must turn property over to the state, or pay a fine, if there has been no contact from the owners in three years.

This program has yielded $5.3 billion to the state for years by limiting its attempts to find the owners of apparently abandoned accounts.

Unclaimed wages or salaries saw changes also,the time was shortened from three years to one and in 2003, the state stopped paying interest on property claimed by owners.

One of the notices that the controller's staff is looking forward to sending will go to the relatives of a World War II hero, Jackson Charles Pharris, whose Medal of Honor and Navy Cross were seized from a safe-deposit box.

Here's the address, check it and see if you or a relative may have some $ coming your way: sco.ca.gov/col/ucp/ this address is to the State Controller John Chiang's site and will take you directly to the page where you will locate the information .