FreeNewport.com:  Your home of free speech since February 13, 2003!

CHANGE
17:38:17

If you want to clean house and bring credibility back to our city join Concerned Citizens in backing new Council Members and spread the word. Dolores Otting is running against Keith Curry which is a great start. She is dedicated, can't be bought by big business and believes in transparency in government. Send her a donation and put a sign in your yard. We need to send the message that we are tired of the treatment and lies the council now feeds us. Get your neighbors involved! We will achieve much more on a united front. Have a happy 4th

slbs/city back room deal
17:28:36

Well here we go again, the city trying to slam through a special developmental deal with sober living by the sea, the biggest operator in our city. Why would the city give them special status? Why should a for profit business be rewarded for screwing our neighborhoods. What are they trying to hide? Maybe all the prior deals between city officials and Sober Living? This smells of Bob Burnham, Robin Clauson and Rosansky but being so arrogant about the whole deal it seems that the entire council could be in on this new deal. Most were in on the last in 04. WE NEED TO CLEAN HOUSE AND REPLACE THEM ALL.

Mariners Park on the peninsula
23:14:20

Also, note that Ficker wasn't used as an architect. How weird is that? But then we have the $ to advance to these "world wide" architects for their preliminary drawings I guess. Hope you're wrong about the 90 million price tag. But then again, thanks to Homer Bludau, we have those temporary buildings on site to show how LARGE we need for a new city hall. And the crowded spaces oh my yes we need a new building don't we. Homer, ever think of DECREASING employees in lieu of always increasing?????

Indictments?
22:07:39

Do you mean Marina park which was originally called Window to the Bay? Or is there a Mariners Park somewhere else?? Regarding City Hall at the Park hold onto your hats for the whooping price tag i will have- probably twice as much as the Ficker Plan ...... 90M +++ (plus, plus) sound OK to you guys???

Indictments?
19:13:46

If this is true it is really sickening! I think of all the good folks approaching the podium on Tuesday nights with good intentions. Only to have their pleas fall on deafening ears. Whether the Rehabs or the City Hall in the park ........ or, ready for this? How about the Mariners Park on the peninsula? Think things are being done under the radar between City Hall and American Legion? You bet! Mr. Bludau give us our City back will you? We are spending $ like drunken sailors. This Council is so liberal just spend spend spend! Your taxes and mine but does Homer Bludau even live in our City? I doubt it!! End of story.....

Indictments
16:32:43

Oh, they can still hunt them down and they can still be prosecuted for their transgressions (of which I'm sure there are many) but how much LESS of a BLACK EYE for the City if she's already gone? You know someone, somewhere put a bug in her ear and said "hey, how about early retirement? not that WE think you did anything wrong...but maybe now would be a good time to get outta dodge"

Burnham & Clausen
23:40:44

Is it true there cannot be indictments after "retirement"? I don't see how that can be.

Robin
21:58:31

Robin Clauson is not the only one in the city who has to worry. If you walk with somebody who limps soon you will limp too! I wonder how many walked with her and Burnham since 03? We shall soon see. It is time to clean up this city and it's officials. How sad and embarrassing for us all. What happened to honesty, integrity and good character? Is everyone on the Dais a smuck?

City Attorney
18:17:03

Robin Clauson has announced her retirement? ..of course she's been confronted by the FPPC about her reasoning for not requiring Burnham to file a conflict of interest form reflecting his involvement with drug rehabs. It makes sense she may have been asked to resign or face an indictment along with Burnham. Serious charges cannot be dismissed quietly.

Lido Village....
23:11:18

That is the current big money play in the city. Last I checked into the details it was owned, or at least finally backed by Lehman Bros, the big NYC investment bank currently in a lot of trouble over sub-prime loans. This is not a "local" ownership interest. It is big NYC money playing with local politics and our community's development interest. Lido Village is ONLY about money $$$$, when it should be about much more.

Fog of War
23:07:13

I stumbled across this link recently, and thought it might have some relevance to our city politics and our fight against rehabs and insider, money making politics. I myself do not like the way our city is currently managed or governed, but I also don't like the attacks on all of our politicians. Fixing politics cannot be an easy task, and I am very thankful to the well minded people who take their time to step up, learn the details and take the steps to do the right things. Doing the right thing and bringing about change is not easy. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fog_of_War

Fog of War
23:07:11

I stumbled across this link recently, and thought it might have some relevance to our city politics and our fight against rehabs and insider, money making politics. I myself do not like the way our city is currently managed or governed, but I also don't like the attacks on all of our politicians. Fixing politics cannot be an easy task, and I am very thankful to the well minded people who take their time to step up, learn the details and take the steps to do the right things. Doing the right thing and bringing about change is not easy. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Fog_of_War

rehab
23:32:27

Let Robin take her sick leave paid days and get out of the city now. We will be better off with out her no matter what salary she commands. She has misdirected these officials (if that is what you want to call them) for far too long. She has helped put the residents in a terrible place and let's hope her replacement has some integrity

Rehabs
15:29:09

Interesting stuff here. What is the current stand of citizens suing the City? Now that City Atty. Robin has cut this deal where does the other litigation stand? She retires end of this year. Just 6 months to go. The liberal policies of municipalities today she probably has enough "sick time" built up in her bank to leave anytime .................. AND STILL GET PAID THE ENORMOUS SUM SHE COMMANDS. How sickening is this?!

BACK ROOM DEALS CONT.
19:01:20

LAST QUESTION. WHERE IS JAMES MARKMAN THE ATTORNEY AND ARCHITECT WHO WAS PAID TO WRITE THESE ORDINANCES? HE HAS BEEN NOTICEABLY SILENT. LOOKS LIKE ROBIN CLAUSON AND BOB BURNHAM (OUR EX CITY ATTORNEY) ARE STILL IN CHARGE. ONCE AGAIN THEY ARE ALLOWING THESE REHAB PROFITEERS TO CONTINUE TO MAKE MILLIONS OFF THE MISERY OF NEWPORT RESIDENTS.

BACK ROOM DEAL CONT.
19:00:29

WHY ISN'T THE CITY FOLLOWING AND IMPLEMENTING THE ORDINANCES THAT TOOK SO MUCH CITY TIME AND MONEY TO WRITE,TWICE PAID OUTSIDE LEGAL COUNCIL (BECAUSE OUR OWN CITY ATTORNEY WAS TO INEPT TO HANDLE THE JOB) AND THEN TO JUST TURN AROUND AND CUT BACK ROOM DEALS WITH THE REHAB PROFITEERS AND USURP THE WILL OF THEIR OWN CONSTITUENTS WHO ELECTED THEM TO PROTECT THIS CITIES INTEREST? WHO ARE THEY WORKING FOR, CERTAINLY NOT THE RESIDENTS AND WHAT IS IN IT FOR THEM? THE COURTS HAVE BEEN RULING IN FAVOR OF OUR ORDINANCES. IF RESIDENTS CALL TO QUESTION THE CUTTING OF BACK ROOM DEALS YOU CAN BE SURE THE COUNCIL MEMBERS WILL BE READY TO SPIN THIS TO LOOK LIKE THEY ARE DOING "ALL OF US A FAVOR". DON'T BELIEVE THEIR LIES.

CITY CUTTING REHAB DEALS
18:59:31

THE CITY IS CUTTING BACK ROOM DEALS WITH PROFITEERS AND NOT FOLLOWING THE ORDINANCES THEY THEMSELVES ENACTED. SOBER LIVING BY THE SEA, OUR BIGGEST DRUG REHAB OPERATOR IS GOING TO DISPERSE TO ALL OTHER AREAS OF NEWPORT. NOW, ALL OF NEWPORT IS GOING TO SUFFER. THE PENINSULA HAS HAD TO ENDURE THE NEGATIVE IMPACTS FOR THE LAST FIVES YEARS AND NOW YOUR CITY COUNCIL IS GOING TO ALLOW YOUR DISTRICTS TO BE IMPACTED,BLIGHTED AND SUFFER THE SAME FATE. THIS IS EXACTLY WAS CONCERNED CITIZENS TRIED TO PREVENT. THE ORDINANCES THE CITY PASSED WERE WRITTEN TO ABATE ALL ILLEGAL DRUG REHAB FACILITIES, CLOSE FACILITIES THAT OPENED DURING THE MORATORIUM AND RELIEVE THE OVER CONCENTRATION THAT WEST NEWPORT HAS BEEN PLAGUED WITH AND NOW JUST AS WE FEARED IT IS COMING TO YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD WITH THE BLESSING OF YOUR CITY COUNCIL.

lido village
21:16:21

I heard they are going to put in rehab condo's to meet the cities need for low income housing.

Henn
21:13:56

Forget Lido Village, did any one see the last city council meeting. I guess there was $225.000 in the budget to put into west newport for median improvements. Well wouldn't you know it, when it came time to vote the budget of all things they pulled the west newport improvement. Henn was even willing to give his "SHARE" of the money to another council member for their project because he thinks we need more time and a design plan first. Right, desecrate our neighborhoods by selling us out and clean up all of Newport but, the peninsula. Sure hope we have our ducks lined up in a pretty little neat row to GET HIM OUT NEXT TIME AROUND.

Lido Village
21:13:15

What IS going on at Lido Village? ALL of the eating establishments are shut down, the cute dress shops are gone, the jewelry stores are gone, the dry cleaner GONE, doesn't ANYONE on City Council or even the people who live around there wonder what is HAPPENING??? I'd sure like to know. By the way, who owns all of that property or should I be asking who WANTS to own all of that because it sure looks like its being blighted to me but WHY, WHY,WHY???

Now Boys....
20:55:01

I know this is a very heated topic but I have a question for both of you. What is going on over at Lido Village. It is so depressing and vacant. Only thing left there is sober living by the sea, morningside and the reach or teach foundation, oh and the book store, maybe a pawn shop or two. It just screams YOU HAVE ARRIVED AT THE BEAUTIFUL NEWPORT PENINSULA. Why is the city and the owner blighting this area? Steve you drive by village everyday, you are a city council member, can you shed some light on this? Bob, you are on West Newport Assoc, do you know anything? Maybe they plan to move the entire population of sober living by the sea over to that area?

more continued......
19:35:16

Any time you want to publicly debate me on the entire matter, as well as the poor ethical judgment you and a number of other of your City Official cohorts have exhibited over the last several years…let me know. I dare say, based upon my previous experience with you, that you wouldn’t entertain exposing yourself without a bully pulpit to lash out from. And if you were half the politician you picture yourself to be, you would see to it that this abortion of a “settlement agreement” was d.o.a. In that event I’d retract my words, but believe me… I’m not holding my breath, ace. Bob Rush

and there is more
19:34:26

Mr. Rehabansky Regarding your comments below…….I think thou protesteth too much… Did you “remove” yourself from mediation efforts in the same way that you claimed to have “removed” yourself from managing 214 Cedar in April ’07 ? You remember, wasn’t that the home you rented to a rehab operator while sitting\voting on the Council floor. Even though you said you walked away from the property management in April ’07….weren’t you still out helping to locate a manager for 214 Cedar in April ’08 and soliciting other real estate agents as part of this effort...? So you removed yourself I guess, but not really…huh..? You are the City Council rep for my area and I think that you are a failure. I feel that you have not protected our Community, but have served a different master. Many feel the same. Isn’t it true that your judgment has been viewed so poor by many of your peers, that many other City Officials (past and present) have also criticized you behind the scenes?

Rehabansky reply
19:33:00

Bob: For your information, I am not a part of the group representing the City in its mediation efforts between the City and Sober Living By the Sea or between the City and The Concerned Citizens. The mediation team is made up of Mayor Selich, Councilman Henn and Councilwoman Gardner. I purposely avoided being involved in the mediation efforts to avoid the baseless accusations that you have put forth in your e-mail to whoever you sent it to. You should get your facts straight. Steve Rosansky

bantering continued......
19:31:39

Bob Burnham directly stated to me Sober Living By The Sea was one of the largest Contributors in ‘04-05 to Burnham’s Rehab-related business. Remember that business of him and his wife that that Burnham ran out of the City Attorney’s office while he was helping to change the Newport Beach Group Home laws to make Rehab proliferation easier throughout Newport Beach. It should be noted that monies contributed to their business went towards paying Burnham’s own wife’s salary, which he enjoyed as community property. Sober Living By The Sea was also the operator represented by OC Republican Chair – Scott Baugh that is until he supposedly “resigned” his consulting gig after Rosansky “ratted-him-out” on public radio…. right? Do you think anyone NOW on City Council owes Baugh any political favors…? I think there might be one guy..! Sober Living By The Sea was also the operator represented by the Ex Newport Beach Mayor Dennis O’Neil in ‘06. Do you think Gardner, Rosansky and Henn and the rest of City Council are on the side of the Community…? Think they’ve been motivated by money or political advancement ? What “spin” are they all going to sell us now? I don’t trust any of them and I believe you shouldn’t either. See the dishonesty at play here..? Bob Rush

check out political bantering
19:30:23

Notice to the Newport Beach Community The Drug Rehabs at 435 & 435 1\2 Dahlia in CDM are now licensed but City Officials won’t tell the public. I’ve asked Asst City Mgr Dave Kiff, Councilman Henn and Outside Counsel Jim Markman directly about the progress of the City’s Group Home Rehab Ordinance enforcement efforts and they all refused to answer anything. They continue to hide behind a feeble “ongoing legal proceedings” excuse. What’s really going on? Apparently, the City refuses to close illegally formed Rehabs ONLY OWNED BY Sober Living By The Sea. Only Sober Living’s sites you ask ? That’s sure what it appears..…and I have numerous examples. You should call and ask your City Council rep about their “honest” efforts to curb Over-Concentration. You may even want to ask if it’s true that Gardner, Rosansky, Henn and other City Officials are presently negotiating with Sober Living By The Sea to allow them to open more Rehabs throughout the City in exchange for ? For money or to drop the suit? Why is Sober Living being favored you ask? Consider this. continued..........................

Dolores Otting!!
19:23:57

Lets get Dolores in there and get these fat cats OUT, Curry only looks out for BIG BUSINESS and ROSANSKY only looks out for HIMSELF! Put a sign on your lawn for Dolores and lets get a voice for the residents back on CITY COUNCIL!!!

City Council
19:23:27

Now that we have a great replacement for Curry (who is one of the the fatcats) we need to replace Rehabansky. Any takers?

Enough is enough
19:17:45

Let's get Dolores in there this time. It is long overdue and Curry has made his grand stand splash .... ker plunk!! OTTING IN NOVEMBER! FINALLY, LET'S GIVE SOME LIGHT OF DAY TO OUR CITY GOVERNMENT HERE IN NEWPORT BEACH!! GO DOLORES GO!!!

CARL AND BARBARA MOSEN
20:01:37

Check out the article in the oc register on the Mosens...he says he is "retired" but didn't he sell Sober Living By The Sea to C.R.C. health Group and then turn around and start ANOTHER Rehab foundation (for BIG bucks)? yes he did. Mosen says residents are all upset over a few BIKES going up and down the street, is he KIDDING? does he think all of the people trying to stop the over concentration of drug rehab in Newport have fought for over 2 years over a few BIKES?? this guy is either out to lunch or the best fairy teller I have ever heard of and do you like that he now lives in a gate guarded ESTATE in Newport Coast? guess he didn't like living down here with all the addicts! http://www.ocregister.com/articles/mosen-mosens-carl-2075757-newport-homes

Mike Henn
23:37:46

With his background as well as being a CPA and yet gives a damn about balancing the budget. Scummy is right on as well as slimy. Go to Newport Beach Voices and see the blog on "Balanced" Budget - Newport Beach/CFO Style. At this writing it is 2nd one down: http://newportbeachvoices.blogspot.com/ Henn needs competition for sure. Don't trust him at all.

Rehabs
22:27:48

NO OPERATORS $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

Dolores
22:15:14

AGREED! DOLORES instead of Curry. Now we need someone in Mike Henn's District to run. He is as SCUMMY as the rest of the council and the peninsula needs someone who will represent the resident’s needs. He came in with $100,000 and bought his seat. WHY? He has done nothing for the peninsula. I am sure if we had another viable candidate to run against Henn his entire district would work to get him out. Go Dolores!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dolores
22:15:12

AGREED! DOLORES instead of Curry. Now we need someone in Mike Henn's District to run. He is as SCUMMY as the rest of the council and the peninsula needs someone who will represent the resident’s needs. He came in with $100,000 and bought his seat. WHY? He has done nothing for the peninsula. I am sure if we had another viable candidate to run against Henn his entire district would work to get him out. Go Dolores!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dolores
22:15:10

AGREED! DOLORES instead of Curry. Now we need someone in Mike Henn's District to run. He is as SCUMMY as the rest of the council and the peninsula needs someone who will represent the resident’s needs. He came in with $100,000 and bought his seat. WHY? He has done nothing for the peninsula. I am sure if we had another viable candidate to run against Henn his entire district would work to get him out. Go Dolores!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dolores
16:54:01

You go girl. Yes, for Newport Beach city council. She's up against Keith Curry. You know the pompous egotistical one. The expert in municipal bonds who thinks COP's (Certificates of Participation) is the appropriate way to finance a new City Hall. Give me a break! Vote Dolores Otting for City Council in November!!! Transparent government that is what we are in dire need of!!!

Rehab$$$
00:11:54

...$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

Rehab$$$
00:11:09

"They moved in; it's a nightmare," said Dayan, 45, of Tarzana. "Saturday morning you can't go outside because of the cigarette smoke. And foul language: `F--- you, f--- you, f--- you.' I can't open my bedroom window. I'm afraid to let my 3-year-old daughter go into the backyard."

Rehabs
00:11:09

"They moved in; it's a nightmare," said Dayan, 45, of Tarzana. "Saturday morning you can't go outside because of the cigarette smoke. And foul language: `F--- you, f--- you, f--- you.' I can't open my bedroom window. I'm afraid to let my 3-year-old daughter go into the backyard."

Rehabs
00:11:04

"They moved in; it's a nightmare," said Dayan, 45, of Tarzana. "Saturday morning you can't go outside because of the cigarette smoke. And foul language: `F--- you, f--- you, f--- you.' I can't open my bedroom window. I'm afraid to let my 3-year-old daughter go into the backyard."

Newport Rehabs
22:02:51

Looks like the rest of the country is as sick and tired of being over concentrated by Drug and Alcohol Rehab businesses in their neighborhoods as we in Newport are...check out what they are doing about it and lets see if our own City will follow through with regulating and removing the illegal Rehabs next door to our Schools, homes, day care and churches...ALL EYES ARE WATCHING NEWPORT...will they step up and do the job? http://www.dailynews.com/ci_9669084 via la.curbed.com

GO DOLORES GO .....
18:41:50

DOLORES OTTING FOR CITY COUNCIL IN NOVEMBER!!! End of story...

LET'S HEAR IT .........
18:15:43

For Bob Barr, Libertarian candidate for president. The REAL alternative to McCain and Obama!!!! Enough is enough....

Obama (cont)
23:08:56

Yep, race card big time. What goes around comes around and this just might bite Obama back!!

Obama plays the race card
23:15:41

"It is going to be very difficult for Republicans to run on their stewardship of the economy or their outstanding foreign policy," Obama told a fundraiser in Jacksonville, Florida. "We know what kind of campaign they're going to run. They're going to try to make you afraid. "They're going to try to make you afraid of me. He's young and inexperienced and he's got a funny name. And did I mention he's black?"

GREAT DAY FOR NEWPORT BEACH
16:29:28

It is a fact that Dolores Otting is making another run for the City Council of Newport Beach. Let us one and all get behind her for this very important race! We'll finally get more daylight on our city and within our city. Dolores is a jewel who has spent more time investigating the FACTS before ever appearing the council. We have a winner here folks so tell your neighbor!!

Dolores
16:31:26

What a joy if this is true she is running for council. Not sure though as this may be just a rumor. One of the weakness of the internet blogs. Fact or fiction? Don't know until we hear it from Dolores herself!

The City
18:23:47

Homer is running EVERYTHING in this city and don't doubt that for one minute. He is clever, deceitful and sly. Are all of you aware that it was he and Tod Ridgeway who removed the trees on Main Street. Homer was at it at 5 a.m. that morning. We could have fixed the problem without removing the beautiful entry to our pier and town. Homer is getting an annual salary approaching 1/4 million dollars a year, including benefits and yet very little is open knowledge here. Every one of the council people know what is being said here and they are like puppets doing his work! This is what the City Manager form of government has come to. All too powerful this position is! End of story....

Dolores & Robin
18:14:03

Well, I think we've taken care of Robin with her public retirement announcement. As for Dolores I REALLY hope it is true she is going to run. Of course one person will not turn things around BUT at least we will get a little crack of light maybe to see what is really going on in this city!!

Rehabs
22:37:32

I hope residents of Newport Beach and surrounding areas read this and get on the train to stop rehabs from opening in Newport Beach. We already have the highest concentration in any coastal community in the State of California.....what is wrong with our City Council.....they are corrupt at every level and we as residents need to get angry and make some changes NOW!!! And we need to start with the City Council. These people are supposed to be representing the residents of Newport Beach, but instead, they have their own agenda and are NOT standing up for us!!! Why in the world would any one of them think it's okay for our neighborhoods to be overrun with these facilities, in some neighborhoods there are 8 in one block......this is wrong!!! Sober Living By The Sea........how convenient for those recovering from drug and alcohol abuse, and in most cases, avoiding jail time, are allowed to live in our beautiful community. How long are we going to stand for this?? If any one of the City Council members had to deal personally with this situation, they would be standing at the podium at City Council Meetings instead of sitting behind a microphone quietly listening and not responding. We are all sick of this action and will not stop until something changes. Get angry and get on the Concerned Citizens of Newport Beach band wagon!

Dolores Otting
19:57:31

I am sad to say that it will take more than Dolores Otting to change the way this city council operates but she is an excellent start. Henn and Curry are up for election in November as well. We need to find replacements for them and bring back integrity and pride to our city and its representatives. How about getting rid of our infamous city attorney Robin Clauson? If we are going to clean out our house we might as well get rid of all of the trash.

Dolores Otting
18:52:18

GREAT NEWS !!! GIVE ME A YARD SIGN...GIVE ME TWENTY! I'M VOTING FOR DOLORES, as anyone knows who has met her in person or seen her at City Council (schooling the current council, who so desperately needs her help!) and at all the City functions...you know she is the right person for our Council. SO GET OUT THERE and let's get Dolores elected, she really will listen to the regular residents instead of just big donors and cronies. Let's change the "Good Ole' Boy Council" to the residents Council.!!!!

Dolores Otting in Nov 2008
18:50:23

It is Official, DELORES OTTING is running for City Council in November! She is a long time resident who has worked so hard to protect and benefit ALL residents of Newport. She does her homework and would be a breath of fresh air…..She is honest, intelligent, has integrity, dedication and morals and does not cater to special interest. Please support her in November.

Prop. 98 Defeated
17:50:51

Last Tuesday, on June 3rd, Californians' defeated Prop 98, a measure backed primarily by wealthy landlords to abolish renters' rights. Californian's spoke out in a major way for rent control and renter protections (by a 22-point margin). This is a new era in the movement for tenants' rights. Join the movement, www.tenantstogether.org

ROBIN CLAUSON!
17:12:17

The writer was informing the public that our prayers have been answered, the Newport Beach City Attorney, Robin Clauson, is RETIRING in December. Far too late for most residents of N.B. Too many BIG mistakes coming out of the City Attorneys office and far too many lawsuits screwed up or LOST due to her "misunderstanding" or just plain being too inept to fill the job of City Attorney for N.B. We aren't a backwater city anymore and we need a high caliber attorney to do the business that this City requires.

Robin who?
20:29:30

Nope, not Jack but don't understand what the hell you're saying!

Robin Who?
00:26:54

Is that you Jack, I read about Robin in the register as well, maybe she knows what is coming or maybe the council decided we need a city attorney who knows what the hell she is doing, works for the money WE PAY HER, and does not need to call 1-800-outside council every time we need a legal questioned answered. Don't you watch the council meetings? every time ANYONE asks her a question, her response is "ugh, I will have to get back to you on that". Has anyone ever heard back from her?

Clauson GONE!
21:41:39

The information below about Robin leaving in Dec came from the OC Register yesterday, our town section........It is about time.

Clauson retiring???
21:09:13

Where does this come from? Sound bogus to me and many others I might add....

Clauson
00:59:50

By the way...has anyone heard the GOOD NEWS? Robin Clauson, our esteemed City Attorney, is "Retiring" as of December 2008...gee I thought they all waited until they were old enough to collect that hefty retirement package the City doles out...anything to this?

VOTE, BUT NOT OBAMA
18:44:09

READ THE 8 PARAGRAPHS BELOW TO SEE WHY!

Obama (cont)
18:42:17

Lies and deception behind a master plan - the ingredients for 'The Manchurian Candidate' or the placement of an anti-American President in our nation's White House? Is it mere coincidence that an anti-capitalist run for President at the same time Islamic sharia finance and law is trying to make advancing strides into the United States? Is it mere coincidence this same candidate wants to dis-arm our nuclear capability at a time when terrorist Muslim nations are expanding their nuclear weapons capability? Is it mere coincidence this candidate wants to reduce our military at a time of global jihad from Muslim nations? Change for America? What change? To become another 'nation of Islam'? End of article.....

Obama (cont)
18:41:04

There is terrorism we can see, smell and fear, but there is a new kind of terror invading The United States in the form of Sharia law and finance. Condoning it is civilization suicide. Middle East Muslims are coming to America in record numbers and building hate infidel mosques, buying our corporations, suing us for our traditions, but they and the whole subject of Islam is white noise leaving uninformed Americans about who and what is really peaceful. Where is our investigative press? Any criticism of Islam or their intentions, even though Islamic leaders state their intentions daily around the globe, brings-forth a volley of 'racist' from the left-wing Democrat crowd.

Obama (cont)
18:40:19

A formal plan for targeting America was devised three years after the Iranian revolution in 1982. The plan was summarized in a 1991 memorandum by Mohamed Akram, an operative of the global Muslim Brotherhood. 'The process of settlement' of Muslims in America, Akram explained, 'is a civilization jihad process.' This means that members of the Brotherhood must understand that their work in 'America is a kind of grand jihad in eliminating and destroying the Western civilization from within and sabotaging its miserable house by their hands and the hands of the believers so that it is eliminated and God's religion is made victorious over all other religions.'

Obama (cont)
18:39:44

As an ultimate slap in the face, be blatant in the fact your candidate has ZERO interest in traditional American values and has the most liberal voting record in U.S. Senate history. Why has the American main stream media clammed-up on any negative reporting on Barak Hussein Obama? Why will they print Hillary Rodham Clinton's name but never write his middle name? Is it not his name? Why, suddenly, is ANY information about this candidate not coming from main stream media, but from the blogosphere by citizens seeking facts and the truth? Why isn't our media connecting the dots with Islam? Why do they focus on 'those bad American soldiers' while Islam slaughters non Muslims daily in 44 countries around the globe? Why does our media refer to Darfur as 'ethnic cleansing' instead of what it really is; Muslims killing non Muslims! There is enough strange, anti-American activity surrounding Barak Hussein Obama to peek the curiosity of any reporter. WHERE IS OUR INVESTIGATIVE MEDIA!?

Obama (cont)
18:39:00

Why haven't 'newsmen' pursued the 65 blatant lies told by this candidate during the Presidential primaries? Where are the stories about this candidate's cousin and the Muslim butchery in Africa? Since when did our national press corps become weak, timid, and silent? Why haven't they regaled us with the long list of socialists and communists who have surrounded this 'out of nowhere' Democrat candidate or that his church re-printed the Hamas Manifesto in their bulletin, and that his 'close pastor friend and mentor' met with Middle East terrorist Moammar Gaddafi, (Guide of the First of September Great Revolution of the Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya)? Why isn't the American press telling us this candidate is supported by every Muslim organization in the world?

Obama (cont)
18:38:15

Install your candidate in an atmosphere of deception because questioning him on any issue involving Africa or Islam would be seen as 'bigoted racism'; two words too powerful to allow the citizenry to be informed of facts. Allow your candidate to employ several black racist Nation of Islam Louis Farrakhan followers as members of his Illinois Senatorial and campaign staffs. Where is the bloodhound American 'free press' who doggedly overturned every stone in the Watergate case? Where are our nation's reporters that have placed every Presidential candidate under the microscope of detailed scrutiny; the same press who pursue Bush's 'Skull and Bones' club or ran other candidates off with persistent detective and research work?

Obama (cont)
18:35:31

How long did it take Islam and their oil money to find a candidate for President of the United States? As long as it took them to place a Senator from Illinois and Minnesota? The same amount of time to create a large Muslim enclave in Detroit? The time it took them to build over 2,000 mosques in America? The same amount of time required to place radical wahabbist clerics in our military and prisons as 'chaplains'? Find a candidate who can get away with lying about their father being a 'freedom fighter' when he was actually part of the most corrupt and violent government in Kenya's history. Find a candidate with close ties to The Nation of Islam and the violent Muslim overthrow in Africa, a candidate who is educated among white infidel Americans but hides his bitterness and anger behind a superficial toothy smile. Find a candidate who changes his American name of Barry to the Muslim name of Barak Hussein Obama, and dares anyone to question his true ties under the banner of 'racism'. Nurture this candidate in an atmosphere of anti-white American teaching and surround him with Islamic teachers. Provide him with a bitter, racist, anti-white, anti-American wife, and supply him with Muslim middle east connections and Islamic monies. Allow him to be clever enough to get away with his anti-white rhetoric and proclaim he will give $834 billion taxpayer dollars to the Muslim controlled United Nations for use in Africa.

Obama
18:33:55

The Jihad Candidate by Rich Carroll Conspiracy theories make for interesting novels when the storyline is not so absurd that it can grasp our attention. 'The Manchurian Candidate' and 'Seven Days in May' are examples of plausible chains of events that captures the reader's imagination at best-seller level. 'What if' has always been the solid grist of fiction. Get yourself something cool to drink, find a relaxing position, but before you continue, visualize the television photos of two jet airliners smashing into the Twin Towers in lower Manhattan and remind yourself this cowardly act of Muslim terror was planned for eight years.

what we need?
17:58:17

Has anybody heard if Barack Hussein Obama has served in The American Armed Services? This is for all you Barack voters. From Barack's book, Audacity of Hope: "I will stand with the Muslims should the political winds shift in an ugly direction." HE DID NOT SAY STAND WITH AMERICANS!!!!!

what we need
17:56:50

No one mentioned the obvious: In just days, Jimmy McCain could face similar perils. 'I can't imagine what it must have been like for them as they were coming to meet with a family that ....' Ms. Flanagan recalled, choking up. 'We lost a dear one,' she finished. Mr. McCain, now the presumptive Republican nominee, has staked his candidacy on the promise that American troops can bring stability to Iraq. What he almost never says is that one of them is his own son, who spent seven months patrolling Anbar Province and learned of his father's New Hampshire victory in January while he was digging a stuck military vehicle out of the mud. Two of Jimmy's three older brothers went into the military. Doug McCain, 48, was a Navy pilot. Jack McCain, 21, is to graduate from the Naval Academy next year, raising the chances that his father, if elected, could become the first president since Dwight D. Eisenhower with a son at war. I chose to share this with those who I believe will pass it on, to others who will pass it on. We hear so much inflated trash out there. How about a simple act of kindness ... and dedication to others placed above oneself? continued....................

WHAT WE NEED
17:55:40

Subject: John McCain's Sons Talk about putting your most valuable where your mouth is! Apparently this was not "newsworthy" enough for the media to comment about. Can either of the other presidential candidates truthfully come close to this? ... Just a question for each of us to seek an answer,and not a statement. You see...character is what's shown when the public is not looking. There were no cameras or press invited to what you are about to read about, and the story comes from one person in New Hampshire. One evening last July, Senator John McCain of Arizona arrived at the New Hampshire home of Erin Flanagan for sandwiches, chocolate-chip cookies and a heartfelt talk about Iraq. They had met at a presidential debate, when she asked the candidates what they would do to bring home American soldiers - - soldiers like her brother, who had been killed in action a few months earlier. Mr. McCain did not bring cameras or press. Instead, he brought his youngest son, James McCain, 19, then a private first class in the Marine Corps about to leave for Iraq. Father and son sat down to hear more about Ms. Flanagan's brother Michael Cleary, a 24-year-old Army First Lieutenant killed by an ambush ... a roadside bomb. CONTINUED........

Don't forget....
16:49:48

You comment on the Winships and their support for Obama. Take a look at their partner in the blog, Jack Wu. He's not exactly a conservative or even a REAL Republican when you consider he was a Democrat in Irvine not that long ago. Strange bedfellows politicians make!!!

Winships for Obama! UGH!!
19:52:28

You guys are looney that's for sure. I'd much prefer voting Libertarian before the likes of Obama. He scares the hell out of me! End of story.... http://newportbeachvoices.blogspot.com/

More on Wu's site...
18:02:26

Got it now. You're right there is the ad he's accepted which I noticed last night. Guess what? It is now down ! ! ! These blog sites are wonderful. You can really catch those who speak with forked tongue can't you. Now you see it now you don't! Pretty sleezy Jack Wu.......

Wu
00:59:36

I don't get it. Is Wu tied into that Rehab outfit or what?

Wu's Site
00:05:43

Moron

Wu's site
23:19:45

Now I understand the reason Jack Wu said he was tired of hearing about the rehab issue. When you click on his site http://www.newportbeachvoices.com/ a add pops up for the Brook Institute Rehab http://www.non12.com Facilities in Newport. Gee Jack, what are we suppose to believe, oh I know you are just like all the rest of the sleazy politicians in Newport. Dish it out with one hand and ask for support with the other. NO THANKS.

Obama
23:12:47

It seems to me Obama is playing the race card, in order to win the democratic vote. That strategy seems to be working in the primary, but I'm not sure America is ready for that in the general election. There is no doubt in my mind that Hillary will be more difficult for McCain to compete with. Obama is a scary (and talented) man and America is not ready for that degree of radical, racial, leftist, leadership.

Obama
19:42:43

IN OBAMA'S OWN WORDS...Again, America...Wake UP IN OBAMA'S OWN WORDS.... This guy wants to be our President and control our government. Pay close attention to the last comment!! Below are a few lines from Obama's books in his own words: From Dreams of My Father: 'I ceased to advertise my mother's race at the age of 12 or 13, when I began to suspect that by doing so I was ingratiating myself to whites.' From Dreams of My Father: 'I found a solace in nursing a pervasive sense of grievance and animosity against my mothers race.' From Dreams of My Father: 'There was something about him that made me wary, a little too sure of himself, maybe. And white.' From Dreams of My Father: 'It remained necessary to prove which side you were on, to show your loyalty to the black masses, to strike out and name names.' From Dreams of My Father: 'I never emulate white men and brown men whose fates didn't speak to my own. It was into my father's image, the black man, son of Africa , that I'd packed all the attributes I sought in myself, the attributes of Martin and Malcolm, DuBois and Mandela.' From Audacity of Hope: 'I will stand with the Muslims should the political winds shift in an ugly direction.' If you ever forwarded an e-mail, nows the time to do it again.

Hey Winships & Wu ! !
17:54:06

Not sure if all the neighbors of Rehab Units here on the Peninsula would agree with your latest "Hail to the City Council" statements! It took a lot of guts for them to take the City to court! http://newportbeachvoices.blogspot.com/

City Council Agenda 5/27
17:50:55

http://www.city.newport-beach.ca.us/ClerkNotices/FAXdocs/CurrentAgenda.pdf

Claremont Institute
19:32:16

Brian Kennedy, President of the above spoke before Principals Over Politics this Saturday (May 17th) morning. Great talk and was VERY informative. This organization is right on! http://www.claremont.org/scholars/scholarID.379/scholar.asp

ILLEGAL REHABS
19:48:16

On Tuesday (May 13th) an email was sent regarding an illegally opened\operated Rehab at 4816 Seashore. In light of all the photos distributed supporting this, the City can’t deny it further.This email was distributed to Officials in the City Manager’s Office, City Attorney’s Office and City Council,and stated that (including 4816) to date we have found 4 illegally formed Rehab Facilities in Newport Beach.You’d think one of these City Officials might have “faked” an interest in these illegal locations, right..? WRONG. not 1 email, not 1 phone call from any of these people inquiring about any illegal rehab locations.The City’s apparent lack of interest comes after all their rhetoric about THEIR “Integrity” and “Responsiveness,” THEIR “Concern for the integrity of neighborhoods” and THEIR “Being part of the solution, not part of the problem” and THEIR “Performance Surveys” and “Resident Satisfaction Scores” ….and THEIR denials of Complicity. You’d think one of them would ask the question “where’s the other locations.” NOPE. Now ask yourself WHY…? Now is the time for Residents to get angry. Now is the time to let the City know we will not stand for their Unresponsiveness, Complicity, Laziness in Enforcement and Secretiveness. WE WANT HONEST, RESPONSIVE GOVERNMENT NOW OR WE WILL REPLACE YOU

Jack Wu's Web Site
20:34:32

His latest blog says he doesn't care any longer about the Rehab Homes. That's a real shame when it is as bad as it is. At least I'm taking the complainers at their word: http://newportbeachvoices.blogspot.com/

Rosansky
00:30:02

Did anybody notice that Rosansky fell asleep not once but twice tonight during the city council meeting? I am glad he is so interested in the welfare of the residents of his city he serves.

Rehabs
00:22:32

The arrogance of these operators is unbelievable, or is it just the huge amounts of money they are making here on the peninsula that gives them the motive to lie and continue to desecrate our neighborhoods? It is unacceptable when a resident drives through Cannery Village this last Monday to check out the Marine Flag at the Arches Restaurant (I have a son who left Monday to serve) and a group of recovery employees yell 'FUCK YOU" as we drove by. I am glad my son was gone and did not hear he is serving to protect the rights of people like this. This is our neighborhood, NOT THERE'S and they have NO RIGHT to continue to intimidate the RESIDENTS. If these are the type of people who loved ones entrust with there family member’s care who have serious drug and alcohol problems, NO THANK YOU. They are better off with their family members, not in NEWPORT BEACH. http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/05/13/politics/dpt-injunction051308.txt http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/05/13/politics/dpt-injunction051308.txt

REHABS/SOBER LIVING BY THE SEA
00:14:22

In today’s Daily Pilot Sober Living claims the city discriminates? The residents live daily with: Being yelled and cursed at, spit at, our homes have been broken into, we have had to deal with the vans racing up and down our streets, dealt with the complete take over of our commercial areas such as the Lido Village and Albertson’s, the take over of some of our neighborhoods and beaches, had the "clients" throw trash, drugs and cigarettes in our yards and our common areas while they loiter on the streets, beaches and in front of our houses. Then when the City tries to regulate the tremendous over concentration and deal with the negative impacts of these homes on the residents the operators accuse us of discrimination? Who is discriminating against whom? Continued……….

NB Police Morale?
18:38:18

Lots of stuff here in the Blogs. Barbara you really started something with your column. http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/04/28/opinion/dpt-soundoff042008.txt

oc jail
17:14:10

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-briefs16apr16,1,5464790.story what a mess ... every time we hit the oc jail system with a light - the cockroaches surface disband the machine or end up in its grip

Politicians
00:52:18

Well the Liberals aren't much better, in fact they are worse in my opinion (Elliot Spitzer!!). It just goes to show you that WE the voters need to stay on these guys/gals, on the issues, and never assume things are getting done properly. Power corrupts. The US has been so powerful over the past decades that we have a bunch of crooks in power. Same could be said for certain cities I know of. Some hard times might actually bring out some real persons of character. God bless America.

They
00:40:51

are all way down the ladder when it comes to being role models!

Scott Baugh
20:23:00

Yes, another republican politco...SHOCKED!... SHOCKED! at the way the people they are supposed to be supervising have been so corrupt.Scott Baugh, T. Rack, Corona, the Schroeders, all cut from the same cloth.They act as if we haven't heard that song before...and of course the best little tidbit is TOP COP Corona taking the fifth on his part in all this, don't want to add to his problems I guess. It's amazing how many people DIDN'T SEE OR HEAR A THING, and that includes ALL of the latest corruption in our D.A. and Sheriffs Dept. Should they really be holding those positions?, they don't seem to be able to remember what they had for lunch, let alone take care of an entire County!

Jack Anderson?
18:06:38

Give me a break! No different from DA Tony Rackauckas when he was "shocked"! What a bunch of slimy politicians each and every one of them. You know what? I think some of them get their training from the Newport Beach City Council and Staff. But then, they're seldom surprised, or act it, because all has been resolved "under the radar"! http://www.ocregister.com/articles/anderson-deputies-jails-2013946-cameras-already

republicans
20:43:29

They did not do so well on the national scene either .... in the end a dry drunk is more dangerous than a wet one - the $ has dropped 28% in the last three years, the surplus a record deficit in seven good going guys! The current administration has been the best thing for americas' enemies in the last 50 years

Corona, et al
17:47:54

Been a Republican all my life. Thinking I might register Independent. I have never seen so many crooked Republicans in my life. Disgusting what this Orange County produces. I used to have a lot of respect for them down here but no longer. We even have this Schroeder suing twice to remove "mayor" from the HB person on her "title" for the ballot. How petty can one get????

Carona transcript
16:47:31

http://www.latimes.com/media/acrobat/2008-02/35400250.pdf

republicans
15:46:26

All hail the republican machine that brought Carona and his team of thugs to power http://www.ocregister.com/sections/chamberlain-grand-jury-2012225-proceedings

Schroeder
23:07:31

Anyone watching Mike and Susan Schroeder self destruct in the media...while he's suing everybody in town for no good reason...she's telling the press that "her office has absolutely NOTHING to do with the problems of LEAKAGE of information" to all of their buddies. Pretty crazy stuff, I think there's a story here but be careful...if you ask to many questions (like the L.a. Times did) Susan will release the hounds. Check out Barbara Venezias Daily Pilot opinion piece (which for some reason is lost in the shuffle today) http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/04/06/opinion/dpt-recipe040608.txt

Hillary and her $109 million
23:23:17

I have absolutely nothing against rich people," Hillary Clinton told North Dakota Democrats at their party convention Friday night in Grand Forks. "As a matter of fact, my husband — much to my surprise and his — has made a lot of money since he left the White House doing what he loves doing most, talking to people."

Newports reputation
22:29:53

check out the comments, I think the residents have got the Rehabs "number"!! send it on to a friend and ADD a comment of your own. http://www.askmen.com/fine_living/travel/21_travel_tips.html

OCSD
22:27:51

Tell me more...is this about the judge?

OCSD's chester the molester
15:17:11

Isnt it time to invoke the three strike law and disband this dysfunctional mess of a department?

TOP TEN RESORTS
14:34:47

SEEMS THE REHAB PROFITEERS WILL HAVE A NEW AVENUE TO ADVERTISE THEIR "BUSINESS" CHECK IT OUT, AND LEAVE A MESSAGE!! http://www.askmen.com/fine_living/travel/21_travel_tips.html

earthquake
17:51:49

3.0 yawn ...............................

earthquake
23:42:52

http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsus/Quakes/ci14358316.php

another, now famous resident
14:25:55

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-hallmark13mar13,0,3144893.story

Gary Proctor
22:51:22

And ....... what can you share about Gary when he was here in NB as a councilman?

Gary Proctor's suicide
14:51:35

Gary Proctor shot himself last night as he could no longer take the emotional pain of having been treated like a criminal rather than human being working in a thankless field representing parents in child abuse cases. There was a clear agenda in the Mercury News series to oust Proctor's law firm and guess what? It worked. One life lost, how many more to go? Have you exposed the lies that Judge Lucero told and guided the author of the Merc series to write? I find it interesting that the only County Counsel attorney to be interviewed about Lucero was Tamara Lopez who just happens to not work in Juvenile Dependency and just happens to be Lucero's best personal friend. Proctor is not the only one out of compliance in the Dependency System, everyone is out of compliance.

Ridgeway
23:42:42

I'm not sure a real crisis would change much! Sorry!

Ridgeway
22:05:50

It is clear, that for him it is all about the buck...ie him making a ton of bucks. It is so unfortunately that our society, our country, puts people like this in public office. We deal with it a local level, the nation deals with it at a national level. I think it will take a real crisis to get the self serving morons out of the way and let real people run real countries, and cities.

Ridgeway
19:38:19

Good riddance to bad rubbish!

TOD RIDGEWAY
16:20:12

http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/03/07/business/dpt-fury030608.txt ... OUR OWN Ex-Mayor ends up owning the property it sits on...but like all our elected officials (Rosansky) I'm sure his answer will be "I NEVER KNEW THIS WAS GOING ON IN MY BUILDING!!!" . I'M SHOCKED, SHOCKED I'll wait to see what his excuse is but it seems to me that if the police were watching this place and took their report to the planning dept. as a nuisance...why didn't they ever bring the same kind of reports about the Rehabs they had "calls for service" to when we took our complaint to the city about the rehab problem?? There were calls made about the problems the neighbors experienced...but NO ONE took responsibility for keeping track of that nuisance...kind of convenient.

newport sex offenders
17:38:44

let's see what the city has to say in regards to the city policy on these sex offenders living here and in regards to being treated in group homes. We have 3 foot ? set backs on some of our lots. How close do offenders have to be to our children before somebody in our local government will explain how this is handled at our city level. With the council not addressing the 6 and under group homes in our new ordinances how does the city know who is in these homes. It is up to the sex offender to register. Now if a person is so sick as to abuse a child do we honestly think all of them are going to race to the police department to register? It strikes me that most would want to stay hidden so they can offend again. Sex offenders are repeat offenders. God help us.

Sex Offenders
17:19:08

THIS IS WHY RESIDENTS HAVE SUED OUR CITY AND WANT TO KNOW WHY MORE HAS NOT BEEN DONE TO PROTECT US AND OUR CHILDREN This part of the article should get your attention A similar controversy erupted recently in the Meadows community of unincorporated Altadena, where neighbors discovered six registered sex offenders on parole living in a residential care facility. Read the article on line at http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-offenders5mar05,1,6065091.story?page=2&cset=true&ctrack=1&track=rss

JWA Expansion?
23:46:29

Absolutely we should be discussing it. I fear there is stuff going on under the radar with no complete transparency here (again!) with Homer and some or all of the council. It just doesn't sound, look or smell right! Especially his remark of not being concerned until 2012 0r so? We need some frankness as well as transparency on the airport from our city "leaders"!

Airport
22:23:10

Now this is what NB city should be discussing. http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/03/04/politics/dpt-cmcouncilpre030408.txt

HR 5105
20:16:45

Have written my congressman to see if this is election year fluff or what!? http://www.opencongress.org/bill/110-h5105/show

I know we're "flush" in NB
16:52:17

but, maybe this should be considered. Better now than later!! http://www.sacbee.com/101/story/751629.html

Airport Noise
16:21:02

I'm not sure, but I think that the red dots on this map represent noise sensors: http://www4.passur.com/sna.html

Airport Noise
23:32:03

If the city bought it what would they do with it? Doesn't matter what we do as Homer isn't concerned until the current agreement runs out and that is still a matter of years. The noise blows us away here in Newport Beach but there has to be something going on under the radar (no pun intended). All we get is words words and more words. No action whatsoever!

Airport Noise
23:24:04

I think the City should invest in something like this. What do you think? http://www.topsonic.de/en/index.htm

Many thanks! That's it!
23:23:59

Torriero of Griffin Structures is the one. And.... lives near Burnham in Laguna Beach? I guess I shouldn't be too surprised. Torriero has to be so phony I simply couldn't believe the City Council gave him so much slack. It is wonderful he is not in the plans as they will look at locals only. Also, I really hope they get away from the "design and build". Once the drawing are complete then let's put it out to bid on a fixed price contract basis! Again, thanks for the heads up!

Tod "pay as you go" Ridgeway
23:12:02

Torriero of Griffin Structures. Lives in Laguna Beach by Burnham. Paid $600K i think to draw some pictures, create a spreadsheet and a power point preso. I didn't think it was very good.

DP article on City Hall
21:30:21

The blogs who were against "B" have really gone bonkers on selection of architect for new city hall. This after we asked what happened to Bill Ficker's plan? I like this response: " Pretty sore loser I'd say!! So, what about the other fellow (Tod Ridgeway's friend) who was paid thousands to design (if you call it that) the fiasco at the current site. I could not believe his line of baloney in front of the city council. He was PROMISING a fixed price contract as a "design & build" without ANY bids. But, that's ok folks continue to trash the wonderful work Mr. Ficker did. If his is not chosen don't blame those of us YES on B for the results you "park only" people get! "

Leslie Daigle
17:39:47

Here we go again as she votes for the rate INCREASE at the Sanitation District. Way to go Leslie you may think your a Republican but you don't go about it this way! http://newportbeachvoices.blogspot.com/

City
21:37:57

You are soooo right! this City needs to GROW UP and take responsibility for it's actions, OR they can be sued...like the Brewery has done...like the Rehab Profiteers have done and like it's OWN citizens had to do! They just discussed insurance coverage for the City...I'm wondering when the insurer is going to DROP them just for being stupid... and isn't it just like OLD TOD to offer the "pay as you go" way?? he, along with the rest of his cronies who raped the City coffers while he was in office would certainly like "pay as you go"

City
21:30:53

I remember Tod Ridgeway was a big supporter of "pay as you go" by financing 60-100M of city hall with COP bonds, supported by rising property tax revenues. Now the housing bubble pops. The last thing we need is for our "pay as you go" city to go bankrupt. Why do we keep electing real estate developers with special interests to gamble with our civic dollars? A city should never "pay as you go". That's for teen agers and real estate developers. A city should plan long term.

Interesting
19:32:19

Interesting observation about the latest City to go Bankrupt. With the inept way our "Leaders" have dealt with some of the MOST IMPORTANT issues to face any City today ( lawsuits) ...I would think they would take notice of the glut of new employees they are always proposing...from what I hear Nancy Gardner feels we do not have enough "manpower" to go around these days to clean up the City...what do ALL of those guys do that I see running around in City trucks scooping a pile of leaves here and some dirt there? no offense but they seem to have a lot of time on their hands...I think I'll apply for a City job, seems kinda cushy with a GREAT retirement package, just ask Bob Burnham and Homer Bludaeu

To: City Manager Bludau
19:04:47

Instead of these 4 page letters going out to us on Rehab and other matters we already know about how about addressing the cost of doing business in our city?! When is the last time you have CUT BACK on employees? All it seems you do is add and add and add. Here's some food for thought. Above the town of San Francisco but could it happen here??? http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2008/02/26/state/n045336S35.DTL&tsp=1

"Ol Bob"
16:39:10

Now lives in Bluebird Canyon in Laguna Beach, thank you! Open meeting tonight at Balboa Yacht Club for all Newporters and anyone else affected by the growth of John Wayne Airport. Supervisor John Moorlach is speaking so let's have a BIG turnout to show him we CARE DEEPLY about the growth.

John Wayne
15:19:34

And speaking of JWA, did anyone read the "Blogs and Columns" section THE BELL CURVE: Time to speak up about JWA? Looks like there is a big problem with "future growth" I thought Bob Burnham was "looking out for" and "working hard for" the Airport Working Group folks??? looks like he did to them, what he did to the residents of Newport in regards to the REHAB DEBACLE...isn't anyone putting 2 and 2 together? anything Bob Burnham worked on is turning against residents of Newport...did old Bob happen to BUY PROPERTY in the path of JWA??? just thinking out loud...we KNOW he and his wife make money off of Rehab!

Big Difference
15:13:12

My what a difference in the articles...looks like someone complained that their "Business Model" was being written about by the Pilot...and they didn't like it. So WHO did the Pilot change the story for? maybe the Rehab Profiteers? They really don't like it when people find out what they're up to.

Daily Pilot
15:10:44

The first article in the Pilot was listed today...and then it disappeared from the Politics and Govt. section of the paper...then the second article listed below took it's place...kind of odd and disturbing...you can only access the first article by entering it into the "search" of the Pilots archives...it is gone from the line up otherwise...why is that? http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/02/25/politics/dpt-soberliving022608.txt http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/02/26/politics/dpt-soberliving022608.txt

Name Change
21:00:40

Its probably in advance of paving over the golf course, extending the run way, doubling traffic and allowing the really big plans to land. you can kiss newport beach property values good by. just like el segundo.

NO WAY CHANGE NAME!
19:01:54

GET THIS THEY WANT TO CHANGE THE NAME OF JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT! WHAT WILL THEY THINK OF NEXT? http://www.ocregister.com/news/wayne-county-orange-1985414-john-airport

Street
17:17:44

They want to wait until that $80 million dollar investment goes down the tubes...then they'll all jump on the band wagon of "why didn't someone do something"? they make me sick...everyones doing the CYA dance.

Chris Street
22:50:23

Why is this guy still in office??? He should be recalled post haste! http://www.ocregister.com/news/county-whistlejacket-street-1984397-sivs-assets

Residents to clean up!
22:52:22

http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/02/16/politics/dpt-codeenforcement021608.txt- Pretty amazing that Newport Beach has finally decided they should do some code enforcement- a little late. I guess the Residents of the Peninsula will have no problem proving negligence on the part of the City- "With a dash of paint here, closing an alleged illegal boarding house there, Newport Beach officials are stepping up code enforcement across the city. Keeping a close eye on things like trash also will be an important part of the city’s strategy for cracking down on drug and alcohol rehabilitation homes in the city, officials said" Sounds like too little too late .........................

CLEAN UP???
21:56:59

Gee...how long did it take the City to finally decide there was a problem with Rehabs and run down houses in Newport??? where has Code Enforcement been all these years?? we have complained for years with no results...I guess getting sued was the only thing that made them realize that YES we DO NOT want our City to look like a GHETTO! if property owners and REHAB PROFITEERS won't clean up...then they need to be fined. http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/02/16/business/dpt-southcoast021808.txt

"B"
20:32:00

Losers in this ballot measure ought to get a life. Have you all seen the Daily Pilot and the comments to their Editorial. Talk about sore losers? Give me a break!! Here's the location: http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/02/11/opinion/dpt-1editorial021008.txt

You bet HOORAY!!
18:29:41

This was NOT an issue concerning the needs for a city hall (as Homer convinced the prior council it was a "must"!). But, it was an issue of where to place it. Get over it the decision has been made and the voters have voted. Adios to your silly lawsuit Allan Beek. Go count your cash cow at the corner where your ferry lands on the island!!!

HOORAY
15:04:58

Gloating over other peoples misery is not a pretty thing..."winning" is a subjective thing, a win for one is a loss for another and Newport has lost big time. The idea that this City's Govt. will not be happy with just the measly 12 acres turns my stomach...they will in fact plan for future growth, as a Republican County why are we so happy about adding MORE govt.? shrink City Hall...get rid of this over bloated City govt. we have...the more space you give them, the more they will fill it with "employees" or "consultants" or their wife's brother's cousin...

HOORAY ! ! !
23:47:32

WE WILL NOW HAVE A CITY HALL IN THE PARK. This in spite of the half truths spread by the opposition all day long! This will be the logical intelligent move!

Get real folks!
15:46:14

Ron & Anna Winship contend they are conservative but in Jack Wu's column they confirm they are wolves in sheep clothing!!! The will vote for Obama in the general election even though he has a 100% rating by the ADA. HE IS WITHOUT DOUBT THE MOST LIBERAL ONE OUT THERE!! VOTE YES ON B!!

Well well well
22:54:05

Now we have "Check it out" with day old news which is nothing new but VERY picky picky. There has NEVER been a need to hide Jack Croul donations in the City Hall in the Park group. What a smoke screen. Is that ALL you can come up with? You've been shot down with the facts time after time again! VOTE YES ON "B" IT IS THE HONEST WAY TO VOTE!!

CHECK IT OUT
22:19:44

DAILY PILOT http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/02/03/politics/dpt-mailers020308.txt

TRUTHFUL
22:18:17

OH GEE...LOOKS LIKE THERES A PROBLEM The California Fair Political Practices Commission is looking into whether the City Hall in the Park political campaign broke the law when it sent out a flier to Newport Beach residents that didn’t disclose the group’s major benefactor was a local retired businessman.

Hey TRUTHFUL!
18:14:14

Is the fix in? Are the aliens coming over your grassy knoll? VOTE YES ON B like the writer below says!

REALLY?
18:12:34

Don't you read the local press at all? Jack Croul's name has been mentioned time and time again! VOTE YES ON B......VOTE YES ON B......VOTE YES ON B.......The citizens choice. Watch it pass this Tuesday 65% to 35%. If you don't believe that go to Jack Wu's site who want just a weedy lot .... er, park. VOTE YES ON B!!!

TRUTHFUL???
15:44:32

Really? you really want to go with "Truthful" then how about the fact that your "Mailers" neglected to mention that JACK CROUL has given close to $700,000 in "donations" for this cause??? why would a retired business man put up that much money? exactly WHO BENEFITS...well I think that City Hall lot is looking like a golden goose to all the salivating developers to get their hands on and jam with a bunch of condos...No new leases have been signed in Lido Village, no new lease for the Vons Pavillions...WHAT IS REALLY GOING ON BEHIND THE SCENE? TAKE A GUESS. VOTE NO ON B VOTE NO ON B VOTE NO

THE ONLY WAY TO GO !
15:19:48

Don't forget to VOTE YES on B. The true cost saving and practical way to vote. ALL of our ads have been truthful and that is more than one can say about the opposition!

Newport
23:52:14

Who doesn't live here?

WATCH OUT!!!!
21:24:57

The opponents at their "strategy" meeting Saturday I'm sure tried to scheme so their last minute attacks will "appear" ethical. Look out for phony logos as they've used recently with the Daily Pilot logo. VOTE YES ON B!! THE TRUEST APPROACH TO THE NEW LOCATION FOR CITY HALL!

Strategy Meeting Today
23:29:56

Those against city hall in the park today met to discuss their most recent way to spin their tale. The bottom line is VOTE YES ON B. THE ONLY SIDE TO TELL THE TRUTH LIKE IT IS!!!

Newport
23:27:57

There seems to be quite a few Management, and Council, who don't even live here!

Bob Burnham
00:35:36

He's at his pad in Blubird Canyon Road up in Laguna Beach. The city of LB brought him in to assist in the slides of homes there. His wife? Guess she's still working the rehab business. They've got a win win no matter....same as Homer with a guaranteed salary. Can't believe some "public servants" today.

Homer
22:49:41

Homer needs to GO...I've never seen a city Manager as tight lipped as this guy...exactly WHAT does he do for his 225,000??? I can't tell. By the way...the City has been sued now HOW MANY TIMES? I think old Clauson might be better suited as assistant to a REAL City Attorney...oh that's right, SHE IS, she's still old Bob Burnham's ASSISTANT, but you'd never know that either. Where did Old Bob go anyway? he just resigns, out of the blue, and poof, he's gone...Robin go back to babysitting Old Bob's kids, you're better suited for THAT, than this City's Attorney.

Homer
22:41:09

The REAL question is he doing a good job as city manager? Remember, this council takes their lead from Homer. He is forever under the radar. Except in the matter of the tree removals on Main St. He was overheard telling Ridgeway he would start the sawing EARLY the next morning .... and he did! Many of us are NOT impressed with Homers leadership. For example, do we REALLY need a new City Hall? Where is the case for it other than photos showing employees in crowded quarters. And, temporary ugly buildings in fron of our current city hall. Homer had to be the lead for the new facility but you'd never know it!

City
21:15:18

Furthermore, I dug up the City NB 2007/2008 budget. As a city, we do about $200M in annual revenue. By far the largest contribution to revenue is property tax...ie the money we pay as tax payers on our homes to live here. That suggests to me the residents are in charge...ie we pay the majority of the bills. So I expect the City to honor our requests since we foot the bill. A 150M new city hall does not seem expensive, given that the city earns 200M per year. Just like a home for 1M might be say 5x the annual salary of someone earning 200k per year. Should homer earn 200K for running a 200M in revenue operation? That's probably not unreasonable as long as he's doing a good job and listening to those of us who are footing the bill!

VERY INTERESTING!!!
20:47:12

That chart below is an eye opener. I think Homer is in the $225,000 range and maybe more with his total "package"! Not bad compared to that California City Manager average of $150,000!!

City Manager
20:09:26

Check this out. Doesn't Homer make about 200K? Where is that info? http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=City_Manager/Salary/by_State

City Hall
19:57:17

Setting politics aside for a moment, what should we do about city hall? Do we really need a new one? Is there historical value in keeping where it currently is? Would it make sense to move it? Do we really care? How much will it cost...150M? that's about 1 year's worth of city revenue I think.

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