NAACC - National Association
for Alert and Concerned Citizens .
and . . ........
a grassroots 501(c)(3) non profit community effort
NAACC.org...- - -...LACP.org
.....Our grassroots Mission is to provide:
Global
National
Regional
Local
...
"Community Matters"
is back and on the air !!!
NAACC.org andLACP.orgare grassroots. We're unaffiliated with any other group, organization or cause, and have no particular political point of view. We do co-operate with many government offices, law enforcement groups and other non-profit efforts, & frequently offer up our expressed opinions of the issues of the day. We also allow and insist on opinions from different perspectives and walks of life.
......... Forum
Articles
- 2009
NAACC and LA
Community Policing ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Below you'll find the many "Main Articles" from the
LACP website this year, listed by the month
they appeared with a brief description of what's
inside. Scroll down to find them.
ANNOUNCING - The NAACC
(can be read "N, double A, double C")
NAACC - a new
national name
for our work !!
--------------
And now you can follow, and recommend us, on:
National Association for Alert and Concerned Citizens - a new national name and web site for our out-of-pocket, grassroots efforts
NAACC.org - This is the home of the National Association for Alert and Concerned Citizens (can be read "N, double A, double C" or "N, double A, C, C"), a grassroots non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging individuals to actively participate within their own neighborhoods to improve their public safety and quality of living, both locally and nationwide.
Its founder is Bill Murray, president and founder of the well known and much respected regional non-profit effort, LA Community Policing (www.LACP.org), his response to the events of 9-11-2001, which has existed since early 2002. The LACP web site has nearly 3,000 pages of information and ideas devoted to an identical mission to that of NAACC: to provide a forum for the dissemination of information, sharing of ideas, and suggesting of ways the community can be engage in making our streets safer, and improve the quality of American life.
The basic difference is that the NAACC is dedicated to reaching a nation-wide audience and membership.
A very dangerous and illegal practice - December 29, 2009
New Year's Eve revelers are reminded that firing a gun in celebration is a felony, Los Angeles officials warned Tuesday. “Let's not place others in harm's way by shooting a firearm in the air,” Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa said at a news conference where he was joined by sheriff's and police officials. “It is not only illegal. It is just plain stupid.”
Last year, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department saw a 19% increase in the number of reports of shots fired during the New Year's festivities, while the LAPD reported a 10% jump. The increases came after nearly a decade of declines in such incidents.
For New Years party goers - Free trains - Tipsy Tow service - use them !!!!
Dec
PLEASE !!!
DO NOT
DRIVE
DRUNK !!
There's no need to
drive at ALL this
New Years Eve,
and if you do, get a
ride home FREE !!
FREE TRAINS - Metro will offer free rides on its buses and trains on New Year's Eve between the hours of 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. Metro will also offer 24-hour service on all routes on New Year's Eve, with trains running every 20 minutes from 9 p.m. Dec. 31 to 5 a.m. Jan. 1. In addition, it will increase service to Pasadena for the Rose Parade with trains running every 7 or 8 minutes beginning at 5 a.m. For more information, visit www.metro.net or call 1-800-COMMUTE.
TIPSY TOW - Motorists, bartenders, restaurant managers, party hosts or passengers of a drinking driver can call (800) 400-4 AAA, and press option 1 for a free tow to the driver's residence of up to 7 miles away. The Tipsy Tow program will be available to intoxicated drivers, starting at 6 p.m. on New Year's Eve and continuing until 11:59 p.m. New Year's Day in the 13 counties served by the Auto Club. Callers simply tell the Auto Club operator, "I need a Tipsy Tow," to receive the free tow and ride home. Also available in other stares. Check your local areas!!!
Arizona is one of several states that share a common southern boarder with Mexico
A new state law requires public workers to report illegal immigrants who apply for benefits they aren't entitled to. The attorney general will decide the law's scope.
by Nicholas Riccardi - January 1, 2010 LA Times - Reporting from Tucson
Cristina, an illegal immigrant living in South Tucson, recently went to a government office to sign up her children for a state-run Medicaid program.
The boy and girl, ages 7 and 3, respectively, are U.S. citizens and entitled to the benefits. But Cristina, who spoke on condition her last name not be used, was fearful. She'd heard of a new state law requiring public workers to alert Immigration and Customs Enforcement when illegal immigrants apply for benefits they are not legally entitled to.
signs north of
San Diego warn illegals to not
cross a freeway
----------------
others warn motorists
Abandoned boat believed used for smuggling immigrants found on Aliso Beach determined illegals attempt dangerous entry
December 31, 2009
An abandoned capsized boat found on Aliso Beach is believed to have carried at least a dozen illegal immigrants who made their way to shore and to a waiting van, Laguna Beach police said.
The 18-foot skiff was discovered by a resident at about 2:30 a.m. Wednesday. He said he saw the boat wash ashore and that several people ran out of it, some of them wearing life jackets, said Lt. Jason Kravetz. When officers arrived, they found numerous life jackets and gasoline canisters, some with some gas still inside, sprinkled along the shoreline. A waterlogged GPS unit was also found on the beach.
ACLU says Escondido's practice is illegal - by Angela Lau, Staff writer - San Diego UNION-TRIBUNE
The city of Escondido is reviewing its policy on driver's license checkpoints after the American Civil Liberties Union formally demanded that the city end the checkpoints, calling them violations of state law. City Attorney Jeffrey Epp said this week that he is reviewing all the issues raised in a demand letter sent to the city by the ACLU of San Diego & Imperial Counties and El Grupo, a Latino advocacy group.
The letter states that driver's license checkpoints violate state Vehicle Code section 14607.6, which prohibits officers from stopping motorists solely to check for licenses.
officially about
12 million illegal
immigrants
are living in
the United States
-------------------
some say that
number is greatly
underestimated
The Obama administration is rallying allies to push for a package with better border security and a path to citizenship for illegal immigrants now in the U.S. The effort is sure to be a tough sell.
by Peter Nicholas and Tom Hamburger - Los Angeles Times - December 30, 2009
Reporting from Washington - With the healthcare battle still unfinished, the Obama administration has been laying plans to take up an issue that could prove even more divisive -- a major overhaul of the nation's immigration system. Senior White House aides privately have assured Latino activists that the president will back legislation next year to provide a path to citizenship for the estimated 12 million illegal immigrants living in the United States.
In a recent conference call with proponents, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Jim Messina, political director Patrick Gaspard and others delivered the message that the White House was committed to seeing a substantial immigration bill pass and wanted to make sure allies were prepared for the fight.
Crips members
in Los Angeles
-------------------
Criminal alliances worry law enforcement
Violence Ebbs as Criminal Alliances Emerge in New Test for Authorities
by Tamara Audi - Wall Street Journal - December 30, 2009
LOS ANGELES -- After nearly two decades fighting gangs, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Detective Robert Lyons thought he had seen it all. Until he saw members of the Bloods and the Crips -- rival gangs that spent years in brutal conflict -- meeting amiably in a restaurant. "They were talking. There was hugging and high-fiving. It was unbelievable," Mr. Lyons said. He has heard a refrain from gang members: Red (the Bloods) and blue (the Crips) make green (money).
Gangs that were once bloody rivals now are cooperating to wring profits from the sale of illegal drugs and weapons, law-enforcement officials and gang experts say. In some cases, gangs that investigators believed to be sworn enemies share neighborhoods and strike business deals. The collaboration even crosses racial lines, remarkable in a gang world where racial divisions are sharp and clashes are often racially motivated.
"Christmas miracle" - by Bob Seavey, Associated Press - December 26, 2009
PHOENIX – A patrol officer spotted a suspected kidnapper's car and aided in the rescue of a 5-year-old girl, who was found uninjured in what police are calling Phoenix's "Christmas miracle." Natalie Flores was rescued at about 9:30 p.m. Friday, more than seven hours after she was scooped up by a stranger while playing with her sisters outside their Phoenix apartment building.
"She is alive and well," police spokesman Sgt. Andy Hill said. Hill credited a "very alert" policeman with taking quick action after spotting what appeared to be the suspect's vehicle driving on a west Phoenix avenue, even though the license plate differed from reports.
I wanted to take a moment to wish you and your families a safe, warm and wonderful holiday.
Every family has their own holiday traditions. In mine, we like to spend time during the holiday season volunteering at a local shelter, then we go home and cook tamales and pozole. So this morning, we went to the LA Mission to serve thousands of traditional holiday meals to the needy and hungry.
There's an old saying: those who are blessed need to bless back. Well, I'm truly blessed, and was so happy to be able to volunteer with my children to help those less fortunate than we.
Slain officer's family urges changes to parole system letters pouring in - by Michael A. Fuoco - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - December 20, 2009
Family and friends of slain Penn Hills police Officer Michael Crawshaw have sent a letter to 100 state lawmakers, judges and other officials urging them to strictly enforce and tighten guidelines for criminal sentencing, parole and parole violations.
Ronald Robinson, 32, of Homewood, who is charged with the slayings of Officer Crawshaw and another man Dec. 6, has a long criminal history and a record of repeatedly violating terms of his parole.
Drunken drivers, rip-off artists stretch definition of 'non-violent, low-level offenders'
by CHRIS FUSCO AND FRANK MAIN Staff Reporters - Chicago Sun Times - December 22, 2009
An initiative by Gov. Quinn to save taxpayers about $5 million annually by letting 1,000 inmates out of prison early is off to a rocky start -- with dozens of burglars, repeat drunken drivers and financial criminals all being sent home for the holidays.
When the state Department of Corrections announced the program in September, it said that only "low-level, non-violent" criminals were to be let out and placed on home confinement ahead of their planned parole dates.
from Senator Diane Feinstein, (D) California - December 23, 2009 - (pdf file)
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act balances the idea that if you like what you have, you can keep it, with the need to reform and regulate the health insurance market. While health insurance plans that exist today are grandfathered, most experts believe that consumers will choose new plans that do comply with regulations included in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
LACP's good friend deserves this appointment - December 25, 2009
EDITOR'S NOTE: We rarely get into politics on LA Community Policing, focusing rather on the many issues of public safety, Homeland Security and the quality of American life. in this case, having personally observed the dedication, transparency and fairness he's brought to the LAPD Police Commission over the years, we have no reservations in saying André deserves this appointment. The Central CA region will be all the better for his service.
André Birotte Jr., who has served as inspector general of the Los Angeles Police Commission since 2003, has been nominated by President Obama to be U.S. attorney for the Central District of California.
“André Birotte Jr. is an outstanding candidate with strong support in the local community," Sen. Dianne Feinstein said in a statement today. The California Democrat said she had recommended Birotte to Obama, citing his qualifications, experience and ability to balance concerns of police officers and the community.
In the past two months, five officers have been killed and three others wounded in three separate shootings that have rocked the region's law-enforcement community. - by Sara Jean Green - Seattle Times staff reporter - December 24, 2009
The first shooting stunned a community. The second sent waves of anxiety across the nation. And now, a third?
"It almost makes you numb. It's like, 'When will the horror stop?' " said Sgt. Rich O'Neill, president of the Seattle Police Officers' Guild.
In the past two months, five officers have been killed and three others wounded in three separate shootings — the most recent Monday night — that have rocked the region's law-enforcement community.
President angry with intelligence community - by Lolita C. Baldor and Philip Elliot - ASSOCIATED PRESS
December 29, 2009
HONOLULU (Dec. 29) -- President Barack Obama said Tuesday that the intelligence community had bits of information that should have been pieced together that would have triggered "red flags" and possibly prevented the Christmas Day attempted terror attack on a Detroit-bound airliner.
"There was a mix of human and systemic failures that contributed to this potential catastrophic breach of security," Obama said.
by David Wood - Politics Daily.com - December 24, 2009
Troops are jamming two dozen at a time into eight-man Arctic tents hastily erected beside the runways at Bagram Air Field in Afghanistan, as the first of the 30,000-plus reinforcements ordered by President Obama arrive for the expanding war.
It's simple enough for the commander in chief to order the additional troops into the fight at "the fastest possible pace,'' as Obama did in his West Point speech Dec. 1. Getting it done, safely and on time, will be barely short of miraculous, given the risks and vulnerabilities involved.
Mistake in newspaper 54 years ago led confused kids to accidentally call a top-secret military number.
Daily Finance.com - by BRUCE WATSON - December 22, 2009
As politicians argue over government spending, there is one line item that is likely to stay in the budget for the foreseeable future: the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD's) yearly Santa Watch. For the last 54 years, the military command -- tasked with protecting the US and Canada against missile attacks -- has answered phone calls from children who want to track the jolly old elf's progress across the Western Hemisphere.
the most reprinted newspaper editorial
reassures children
around the world
Eight-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon wrote a letter to the New York Sun ..
The quick response was printed as an unsigned editorial Sept. 21, 1897. The work of The Sun's veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since become history's most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps.
by Gary Brown, Staff writer - CantonRep.com - December 21, 2009
Christmas. Arguably, it is our most celebrated holiday. We attend church services. We send greeting cards. We serve up holiday dinners and exchange Christmas gifts. We are surrounded by colorful decorations and engulfed by the sounds of Christmas carols. But what do we really know about any of those traditions? What do we know about Christmas? We went to a handful of books that detail the origins and meanings of Christmas traditions. Read on to find out 20 fun facts about the holiday.
Richard Nixon pioneered the use of the White House Christmas card as a political reward. What does the Obamas' Christmas card look like, and what does it say?
The Christian Science Monitor - by Peter Grier Staff writer - DC Decoder - December 21, 2009
"Who gets White House Christmas cards? And can you get me on the list?”
This is a request Decoder has fielded occasionally over the years. It's usually made by someone who lives in a distant city and mistakenly thinks D.C. print reporting is a swirl of state dinners and glamorous repartee. Our short answers to the above are “not you” and “no.” Decoder doesn't get presidential holiday greetings either. Not anymore. (More on that later.)
An expense people are avoiding - by Judy Keen - USA Today - December 22, 2009
Are you receiving fewer holiday cards this year? Sarah Tompkins can explain. "I'm not sending any," says Tompkins, 41, a Web designer in a Chicago suburb. "Do the math: the cost of the cards, then 44 cents for each stamp times 50 cards. That's an indulgence I just can't afford this year." The U.S. Postal Service says there was an 11 percent decline in cancellations of first-class cards and letters from Dec. 1-13 - when most Americans mail holiday cards - compared to 2008
St Jude's can take advantge of used Chrismas Cards
by ROB STEMPLE - At Your Service, Daily American newsroom - Sunday, December 20, 2009
Question: Where can I donate my used Christmas cards? None of the area churches seem to be collecting them this year? I called St. Jude's Hospital and they aren't accepting them either.
Answer: I went online to find an answer to this question since I couldn't get any answers locally either. It doesn't seem like any of the area churches are accepting cards this year. I did find, however, that St. Jude's Ranch is, in fact collecting cards from now until Feb 28. According to their Web site, they had suspended this program temporarily to redesign their process. They were receiving well over 1 million cards and needed to make adjustments to accommodate the volume! According to the site, they're ready to go
Good Samaritans in Ohio - Odd News - December 22, 2009
DAYTON, Ohio (UPI) -- Ten people at an Ohio laundromat said a pair of anonymous good Samaritans dropped by and gave them each a Christmas card containing $100. The eight employees and two customers at Spin City Laundromat in Dayton when the couple came by Dec. 20 and silently distributed the Christmas greetings, the Dayton Daily News reported Tuesday. "My first thought was that (the couple) had just come in from church," employee Holly Dunlap said. "They were dressed conservatively. The woman had on a long black dress and a bonnet, and the man was dressed in black."
LACP and "Community Matters"
wishes everyone
all the best !!!
Some Christmas time issues of interest to the community policing and neighborhood activist across the country -
by Bill Murray, LACP & "Community Matters".
EDITOR'S NOTE: The following group of articles from local newspapers and other sources constitutes but a small percentage of the information available to the community policing and neighborhood activist public. It is by no means meant to cover every possible issue of interest, nor is it meant to convey any particular point of view ...
We present this simply as a convenience to our readership ...
More than 100 could be victims of pediatrician Delaware Doctor - By BRIAN WITTE - Associated Press
GEORGETOWN, Del. – A pediatrition charged with sexually abusing his patients likely attacked more than 100 children at an office he had decked out with a merry-go-round and a ferris wheel, a state official said Wednesday.
The volume of evidence seized from Dr. Earl Bradley's practice and home, including video tapes and computer files, makes it difficult to estimate the number of victims, said Alexis Slutsky, a deputy attorney general assigned to the state' s Child Predator Task Force.
EDITOR'S NOTE: This is a follow up on a story we first presented in August, "Fathima Rifqa Bary: 17-year-old Muslim to Christian convert fears for her life"
Try as they might, Rifqa Bary's parents can't keep her from reading her first Christmas cards. The Ohio girl, who ran away to Florida because she said she feared her father would kill her for converting from Islam to Christianity — only to be sent back to Ohio by a Florida judge — remains in the care of a county children's services agency where she has been receiving "quite a lot" of Christmas cards from well-wishers across the country, according to one of her attorneys. John Stemberger said an attorney for Bary's parents filed a motion earlier this month seeking to ban the 17-year-old from receiving outside messages, including Christmas cards. But Rifqa is receiving the cards nonetheless.
Associated Press - WEST JEFFERSON, Ohio — A mother and father's wish for Christmas cards for their son with brain cancer has brought an avalanche of mail in Ohio, thanks to the power of the Internet. Thousands of cards for 7-year-old Nate Elfrink have arrived at his home west of Columbus on each of the last few delivery days. The boy's mother says it all started with a simple online message she wrote saying cards would be appreciated by her son, who's in hospice care. As Nate's father puts it, people took the request for holiday wishes "up Mount Everest," spreading it through e-mails, Facebook and Twitter.
SIOUX CITY, IA) - The Siouxland Chapter of the American Red Cross needs your help to make sure service men and women receive their holiday cards this Christmas. 2,000 Christmas cards have arrived at Sioux City's Red Cross. Every card needs to be sorted for veterans, families, wounded soldiers and active-duty soldiers. Red Cross staff hope volunteers will spare an hour or so on Tuesday, December 22nd to come to their office off War Eagle Drive in Sioux City and sort cards.
Christmas Card - say thank you and send well wishes to wounded soldiers
Dec
~~~~~~~~~~
Merry Christmas
and Thank You !!!
~~~~~~~~~~
When doing your Christmas cards this year, take one card and send it to this address. If we pass this on and everyone sends one card, think of how many cards these wonderful special people who have sacrificed so much would get: . .
A Recovering American Soldier
c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue, NW
Washington , D.C. 20307-5001
Santa Claus arrives on a firetruck - December 19, 2009
In East Los Angeles, children strained today to hear the sound of sirens. At any moment, a big, red firetruck would arrive with Santa Claus and toys. “Here he comes!” one mother yelled, as she heard the cry in the distance.
Denise Barnes watched her 9-year-old daughter, Caroline Guillen, jump with joy. They were among about 30 families gathered from AbilityFirst, an after-school program that helps children with disabilities.
The new chief tells Latinos that he will continue Special Order 40, which bars police from initiating action solely to discover legal status - by Teresa Watanabe - Los Angeles Times - December 20, 2009
On the plaza of Dolores Mission Church, long a sanctuary for illegal immigrants, a Roman Catholic priest asked the question that has hovered in the minds of so many of the city's migrants since Charlie Beck was appointed Los Angeles police chief. Flanked by parishioners holding flickering votive candles in the cool evening air, Father Scott Santarosa asked Beck whether he could assure community members that they will not be asked about their immigration status if they report a crime.
"Sí," Beck said, drawing laughs and applause from the crowd.
Police union upset by decision - by Bob Egelko, Staff Writer - San Francisco Chronicle - December 19, 2009
SAN FRANCISCO -- A decade-old California law that bans possession of body armor by anyone with a violent felony conviction is unconstitutional because the average person wouldn't be able to decipher which types of bulletproof vests are prohibited, a state appeals court has ruled.
The law, passed in 1998, was intended to protect police against flak-jacketed criminals such as Lee Boutwell, who fatally shot San Francisco Officer James Guelff in November 1994 and wounded another officer before being killed in a shootout. Congress passed a similar federal law in 2002. The state law makes it a crime, punishable by up to three years in prison, for felons with violent offenses on their record to possess or wear body armor.
Police: Criminals are packing more heat more handguns, more assault weapons, higher calibers reported
by Kevin Johnson, USA TODAY
Criminals increasingly are choosing high-powered firearms such as assault weapons, a new survey of 166 U.S. police agencies shows.
Nearly 40% of the departments reported an uptick in the use of assault weapons, according to the Police Executive Research Forum, a law enforcement think tank. In addition, half reported increases in the use of 9mm, .40-caliber and 10mm handguns in crimes — among the same types of weapons that police use. The survey offers one of the broadest indications of officers' concerns about the armed threat from criminals involved in murder, assault and other weapons-related offenses.
The remains of Angela Marie Girdner were found in 1985
A victim of Gary Rigway? - CNN Staff CNN - December 17, 2009
The remains of an Oregon teenager missing for more than 25 years were recently identified by authorities, and police are looking into whether she might have been a victim of Gary Ridgway, known as the "Green River Killer."
Police believe Ridgway could be responsible for the death of Angela Marie Girdner because her body was found within a mile of the remains of two other women that Ridgway admitted killing, the county sheriff's office said. Those bodies were found in Washington County, Ore., near Portland. The bodies of Ridgway's other 46 victims were found in the Seattle area.
Thank God Almighty, free at last - by Mitch Stacy, ASSOCIATED PRESS - December 18, 2009
BARTOW, Fla. | James Bain used a cell phone for the first time Thursday, calling his elderly mother to tell her that he had been freed after 35 years behind bars for a crime he did not commit.
Mobile devices didn't exist in 1974, the year he was sentenced to life in prison for kidnapping a 9-year-old boy and raping him in a nearby field. Neither did the sophisticated DNA testing that officials recently used to determine he could not have been the rapist.
Make the call ..
stay anonymous
-----------------
Make a difference
by Bill Murray, LACP & "Community Matters"
LA Community Policing is delighted to have an active Regional Crime Stopper program in the LA County area. .
I'm happy to recommend this program, which has been proven around the country as one that can make a real difference in public safety by engaging community members in providing the essential TIPS that often provide the key element in solving a crime.
Call: 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) -- or go online to leave a WebTip -- guaranteed anonymity
Could legalizing pot be part of the solution? - December 17, 2009
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - With California teetering perpetually on the edge of financial ruin, marijuana activists have seized the moment, claiming that legalizing and taxing pot could help bail out the cash-strapped Golden State.
But critics are slamming the proposal, saying the social costs of a free-smoking state far outweigh the money it would bring in, and that a promised windfall from taxing marijuana sales couldn't possibly plug California's massive budget gap. Voters are likely to confront the issue next year.
state and local governments are not making federal immigration policy
Misguided federal priorities hurt law enforcement - LA Police Protective League Blog - by LAPPL Board of Directors - California is being especially hard hit by cuts to an important federal program that reimburses state and local governments for the cost of jailing criminal illegal immigrants. The annual appropriations bill recently agreed to by the U.S. House and Senate reduces funding for the State Criminal Assistance Program by more than 18 percent. This is a prime example of misguided government priorities. At a time when billions of our tax dollars are being diverted to bailout and stimulus programs with dubious results, Congress cuts a program with an obvious public benefit – housing criminals who should not be on the streets (and who wouldn’t even be in this country if the feds were protecting the integrity of our borders). This program should have been expanded, especially at a time when California and other border states are facing severe budget pressures.
From the Office of the Mayor, Los Angerles - We would like to invite you to become a "civilian" volunteer member of our City's Crisis Response Team (CRT). Crisis Response Team (CRT) members are community volunteers who respond to traumatic incidents at the request of the Los Angeles Police & Los Angeles Fire Departments. CRT provides immediate on-scene crisis intervention, attends to survival & comfort needs, acts as a liaison between the victim & emergency personnel and gives referrals to victims & their families affected by a death, a serious injury, a violent crime or other traumatic incidents. These include homicides, suicides, serious traffic accidents, natural deaths and multi-casualty incidents. The CRT program is managed by the Mayors Office of Homeland Security & Public Safety in collaboration with the City's Fire & Police Departments.
Los Angeles Police Commission - Give .. but Give Wisely - Charities step up their soliciting during each holiday season, but this year they will be even more aggressive for your support. The lagging economy has also led to a sharp rise in the number of charities nationwide. But if you are like most Angelenos, you have fewer dollars to spend. Selecting charities will not be easy. To make sound decisions takes knowledge. However, do you really know your charity? Are you aware of the actual services it provides? Do you know the ratio of money it spends on those services versus administrative costs? The Charitable Services Section of the Los Angeles Police Commission wants Angelenos to give, but advises that you Give Wisely.
Could we find wise leaders today who would put aside politics for the good of the country? OPINION - LA Times - by Jonathan Estrin and Marshall Croddy - December 15, 2009
Watching the often vitriolic debates in Congress these days can be disturbing. But disagreement and debate are part of our national DNA. Consider the Bill of Rights, which was as controversial when it was first debated as parts of it still are today. The founders of our country, united in the revolution, were divided over the issue of including a bill of rights in the Constitution of 1787. And although those first 10 amendments were eventually ratified -- 118 years ago today -- the outcome was at times in doubt.
The Crime Report: 2009 a dangerous year for police as gun deaths spike
2009 was a particularly perilous year for police officers involved in gun disputes, reports the Associated Press. The number killed in the line of duty by gunfire increased 24 percent from 2008, say preliminary statistics from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. As of Saturday, 47 police officers had died nationwide after being shot while on duty, up from 38 for the same time in 2008, which was the lowest number of gunfire deaths since 1956. Experts are surprised by the number of officers who have been targeted by gunmen. “There's an increasingly desperate population out there,” said Eugene O'Donnell, a professor of police studies at John Jay College of Criminal Justice. “Other than in rare cases for ideological reasons, we really haven't seen people taking on the cops head-to-head. Something is amiss." ..EDITOR'S NOTE: See also the full story in the Seattle Times.
from NPR
--------------- Who / What's
being saved?
Who / What's being saved? - by Cheryl Corley - NPR - December 13, 2009
With a sputtering economy and widespread budget crises, many states have decided that reducing their prison populations is a good way to save money. Illinois is one of the latest examples. Under its new early release program, as many as 1,000 nonviolent offenders will be able to finish their sentences at home or at other locations approved by prison officials.
Making a Thousand Runs a Year, the Bomb Squad Can Never Relax - ABC News
by PierreThomas, Richard Esposito and Lenny Bourin - LOS ANGELES, Dec. 13, 2009
On a recent day the Los Angeles Police Department bomb squad answered what they thought would be a routine call: a woman showing up at a fire station with boxes of what she thought were only fireworks.It turned out to be far more dangerous. "The stuff has been stored for a long time," squad member Det. Kevin Corn said. "It could be unstable."
Today, one of the squad's newest members, Officer Norma Stange gets the call. It's her first chance to use her training to dispose of real explosives.
The Library of Congress -- America's Library- online resource for everyone - by Bill Murray EDITOR'S NOTE: Here's a marvelous resource idea for you, the Library of Congress -- America's Library. Perhaps its because my mother herself was a reference librarian at a public library that I can especially appreciate the hard work a librarian does on behalf of a patron .. simply for the asking.
The REALLY good news is that nowadays the Library also features a digital side. There's an amazing amount of recommended information available through the Library's user friendly and pre-screened web sites.
Of special note to community policing folk may be the THOMAS section, which, in the spirit of Thomas Jefferson, provides "legislative information from the Library of Congress." We heartily recommend this wonderful service!
19% earn over $100,000 a year - The old saying that the best job to have during a recession is in government turns out to be the truth -- as long it's the federal government. The number of federal employees earning $100,000 or more a year jumped from 14 to 19 percent of the federal payroll during the recession, according to a report in USA Today. During that same period, the private sector was shedding 7.3 million jobs. Defense Department civilian employees earning $150,000 or more shot up from 1,868 in December 2007 to 10,100 in June 2009. Before the recession, the Transportation Department reported only a single employee pulling in $170,000 or more. Now that agency has 1,690 workers at that lofty level. The average federal salary zoomed 6.6 percent to $71,206, compared to the $54,101 paid by state and local governments, a 3.9 percent increase. The private-sector average is $40,331.
includes Op-Ed from Eugene Robinson - Washington Post
EDITOR'S NOTE: Many people were surprised when President Barak Obama was announced as the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize last month. More than one pundit pointed out that very little had been accomplished so far in this, the President's first year in office, complaining that the award was generally reserved for a person with a body of work achieved over a lifetime. And so it was surprising the generally good reviews his Oslo acceptance speech received, especially considering it was delivered only days after the President had committed an additional investment of over 30,000 U.S. military troops to the war in Afghanistan. But the speech, delivered with humility, was somber and serious and honest, and stuck a balance between the pursuit for peace and the need to defend freedom.
Cops get "donning and doffing" pay - by Henry K. Lee, San Francisco Chronicle - December 11, 2009
OAKLAND | The city of Oakland is expected to pay $1.75 million in legal fees and will offer vacation time and money to police officers who claimed in a lawsuit that they had been underpaid for working extra hours and for the time they spent putting on their uniforms, attorneys said Thursday. Under a tentative agreement reached this week, the city will cover the plaintiffs' legal fees and costs. More than 500 current officers will receive an average of 130 vacation hours each, and about 60 retired officers each will be paid $3,500. ..What do you think of this ??
Paying for prisons - by Rob Hotakainen - The Sacramento Bee - December 10, 2009
WASHINGTON – California and other financially strapped states will lose tens of millions of federal dollars that they spend to jail illegal immigrants charged with crimes, under Congress' latest spending bill. The $1.1 trillion plan, finalized by House and Senate negotiators Tuesday night, combines six of the large yearly appropriations bills passed by Congress to keep the government running. State officials and members of the California congressional delegation had lobbied hard once again to increase aid to the states for the program, hoping to cash in on California's increased clout in Washington this year. But their efforts fell flat, with the program set to be cut by more than 18 percent.
fighting overseas
cybercriminals
in several
countries
Government getting more serious about Internet based crimes - by Lolita C. Baldor - ASSOCIATED PRESS
WASHINGTON — The tip came from another country's law enforcement officials: Eight major banks in the U.S. were being targeted by cybercriminals operating there. FBI agents fanned out that night to warn the branches that hackers were aiming to break into their computer systems. The banks were able to spot the attempted breaches, and block them, FBI officials said.
Concerned about the rise in this type of sophisticated computer attack from abroad, the FBI and the U.S. Secret Service are beefing up their international cybercrime enforcement, sending agents who specialize in the threats overseas to specifically deal with digital perils.
Whatever happened to "You do the crime you do the time?" In America it doesn't work that way anymore. We, as a society, are soft toward criminals and it often comes back to haunt us.
Just ask former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee. He commuted the sentence of Maurice Clemmons in 2000. Clemmons had 95 years left on a 108-year sentence when Huckabee commuted his remaining prison time. Six days before Clemmons killed four police officers in Washington, he made bail for the rape of a child.
OPINION- The California Crisis with Bob Walsh - CorrectionsOne News
There's little doubt that Maurice Clemmons murdered four Lakewood, Washington police officers on Sunday, Nov. 29th, 2009. He had become a suspect almost immediately after the shooting took place, and when a Seattle officer shot him to death a couple of days later, he was found in possession of one of the officer's weapons.
So the real question now is: How did all this come to pass?
26% jump in request for food help last year - by Karen Pierog, REUTERS - December 8, 2009
CHICAGO (Reuters) – Hunger is spreading while the number of homeless families is increasing as a result of the recession and other factors, according to a report on Tuesday. The U.S. Conference of Mayors said cities reported a 26 percent jump in demand for hunger assistance over the past year, the largest average increase since 1991.
Helping the helpless: Do we have a responsibility for the homeless? - OPINION
LA Daily News - December 7, 2009
The plight of Karen Clark, a middle-aged, mentally ill woman who for most of a year lived on a bus bench on Ventura Boulevard, was noticed by many people who worked or lived in the area. It especially bothered Dennis Magalios, whose sympathy and conscience prompted him to offer help, which was rebuffed several times. He did not give up as many would. Magalios was now determined to save her and did what none of the hundreds of people who passed Clark did - he got her help.
Supreme Court may make changes - by Jessie J. Holland, Associated Press - Monday, December 7, 2009
The Supreme Court on Monday seemed headed toward telling police they must explicitly advise criminal suspects that their lawyer can be present during any interrogation.
The arguments in front of the justices were the latest over how explicit the Miranda warning rights have to be, as justices debated whether the warnings police gave Kevin Dwayne Powell made clear to him that he could have a lawyer present while being interrogated by police.
Reducing overcrowding - by Howard Mintz - Mercury News - December 7, 2009
Lawyers for California's prison inmates on Monday supported Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's overall plan to reduce overcrowding in the state's 33 prisons, but asked a federal court to order state prison officials to meet strict deadlines to ensure they shed nearly 40,000 inmates from the system over the next two years.
Meanwhile, the plan drew fire from Republican lawmakers and some counties, including Santa Clara County, which is worried about the impact of releasing state prison inmates into local jails.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are more than 31 million people currently unemployed -- that's including those who are involuntarily working part time and those who want a job, but have given up on getting one. In the face of the worse economic upheaval since the Great Depression, millions of Americans are hurting. The above interactive map serves as a vivid representation of just how much. Watch the deteriorating transformation of the U.S. economy from January 2007 -- approximately one year before the start of the recession -- to the most recent unemployment data available today.
CAIR-CA Co-signs Letter Calling for Calif. AG's Stronger Enforcement of Hate Crimes Legislation
November 30, 2009 (LOS ANGELES, CA) -- The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA) today announced that it has joined a group of community and civil rights organizations in signing a letter to California Attorney General Edmund G. (Jerry) Brown to take stronger action in the enforcement of hate crimes legislation. The groups are calling for the State of California to apply for its share of federal assistance for hate crimes law enforcement and to make it mandatory for law enforcement agencies to submit information about their hate crimes policies in order to encourage them to adopt formal hate crimes policies and train police officers.
Senator Boxer: Fighting against Drug Trafficking - by Senator Barbara Boxer
Dear Friend: I regularly meet with law enforcement officials in California, working closely with them on public safety issues. One of the common concerns I hear from these sheriffs, police chiefs, and district attorneys is the continual battle they wage against drug traffickers. And now, with local budgets being cut, their battle is even more difficult.
Because the transport of illegal drugs is not a local or even a regional problem, the federal government has established and funds the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas ( HIDTA ) program.
On March 05, 2007 5 year-old Liam Gabriele McCarty, a United States citizen, was kidnapped from his home in Manhattan and taken to Rome, Italy where he has been languishing in an Italian orphanage.
This appalling abduction was aided and facilitated by the Italian consulate in direct violation of explicit court orders that Liam not be removed from the United States. The kidnapper whom the consulate assisted is Manuela Antonelli, a psychologically disturbed international fugitive currently sought by Interpol, and on the FBI's Most Wanted list.
She is also Liam's mother ...and she recently re-abducted him.
Samantha Light
and
Stephen Quick
----------------
child molesters
Indiana town horrified by infant sex tape case - Residents, law enforcement shocked
November 29, 2009 - Associated Press Wire
VEEDERSBURG, Ind. (AP) -- Single dad Robert Jones felt comfortable with his decision to hire Samantha Light as his toddler son's baby sitter. She was from a respected, churchgoing family in this close-knit community, he knew her family and she was soon to be a young mother herself. Jones was thunderstruck when he learned that Light and her boyfriend had been arrested on charges of molesting and videotaping sex acts with at least four children in their care, including two under age 2.
MERRY CHRISTMAS
------------------
Thanking those
who serve us
so well and
so completely
Sending gifts to the Military - OPINION - by Pauline Spear
The holidays are upon us. This year, unlike any other in decades past, our citizens have received a blatant slap in the face, disrespectful greed that has crippled our economy. So many have made fortunes off the sweat and trust of the American people. It will be a bleak holiday season financially for so many.
However, at this same time there are many who are sacrificing far more than money for us. Our military; they are sons, daughters, fathers, brothers, sisters and friends who are risking their lives so that we can have the opportunity to be able to suffer through and gripe about these tight economic times.
The True Meaning of Xmas - EDITORIAL
by THE WASHINGTON TIMES - Friday, November 27, 2009
Thanksgiving is over and Black Friday has arrived. With the Christmas season now semiofficially upon us, tradition dictates that consumers flood shopping malls and online marketplaces to buy everything in sight. At the same time, politically motivated busybodies stop at nothing to distract from, deny or delete any references to that Jesus guy who may or may not have inspired the holiday known as Xmas. The "X" stands for we can't remember what.
Efren Peñaflorida CHAMPIONING CHILDREN
-----------------
CNN's 2009
Hero of the Year
CNN Heroes - Everyday People Changing the World - November 27, 2009
EDITOR'S NOTE: This is a really great broadcast from CNN, and it will be on again this weekend. Its a;; about how a lot of people are making a difference all over the world and here in the USA.(CNN) -- Efren Peñaflorida, who started a "pushcart classroom" in the Philippines to bring education to poor children as an alternative to gang membership, has been named the 2009 CNN Hero of the Year.
CNN's Anderson Cooper revealed Peñaflorida's selection at the conclusion of the third-annual "CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute" at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood.
Happy Thanksgiving to All Our Readers / Listeners! by Sandy Nazemi, LACP volunteer and co-host of "Community Matters"
Thousands of Americans will gather together to give thanks for a bountiful harvest and ask the Lord's blessing with their families on Thursday, November 26, 2009. Oh wait! Wrong! Thousands of Americans will gather together to stuff themselves with endless food including turkey and pies. Many will be the stores Christmas shopping before the day is over. Like many other holidays, Americans have long ago forgotten the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Remember all those Thanksgiving stories the teachers used to teach about? The stories of Pilgrims and the Indians working together to produce a bountiful harvest?
LAPD's new leader, Chief Charlie Beck, has begun the restructuring that frequently accompanies a change at the helm, a signal for his style of leadership, and shows a commitment to community based policing. We're pleased but not surprised at this, since the work that was accomplished under the previous administration virtually ensured that a continuation of community participation, transparency of operations and inclusion of all residents is at the heart of LAPD philosophy. Indeed, each of the final three candidates for Chief had been know as completely committed to the sense that this is now a way of doing business at the Department, rather than simply a plank in a platform.
4 Legged Law Enforcement - K9 Police Officers need vests - loyal and dedicated public servants
The duties of a K9 Police Officer team depend on the type of police dog with which the officer is paired. He is first and foremost an officer whose task is to ensure the safety of the community. If the officer is paired with a public order enforcement dog, then he will act as a regular police officer and use his dog to pursue and detain suspects. This can be dangerous work, and can place the dog in immanent danger (frequently instead of a human being). Officers wear vests for protection, but their K9 partners are often unprotected.
We love animals at LACP, and have found a charity .. at http://www.vestnpdp.com .. which caters to the need to provide vests for dogs who perform pursuit duties. We're delighted to focus on this need, and draw your attention to the important contribution that's made by our country's 4 legged legged law enforcement police officers.
FBI on Hate Crime - New Stats and a New Law - November 23, 2009
Hate crime has been much in the news lately, with an expansive new law put on the books just last month.
Today, we're releasing our latest annual statistics on the extent of bias-fueled crime across the country, which we hope will contribute to the ongoing national dialogue and to public and private efforts to address its underlying causes.
Overall, the 2008 numbers are up slightly —7,783 incidents and 9,691 victims (including individuals, businesses, and institutions) were reported to us by our law enforcement partners across the country.
Senate Votes to Open Health Care Debate - Here we go .. again ..
by DAVID M. HERSZENHORN and ROBERT PEAR - New York Times - November 21, 2009
WASHINGTON — The Senate voted on Saturday to begin full debate on major health care legislation, propelling President Obama's top domestic initiative over a crucial, preliminary hurdle in a formidable display of muscle-flexing by the Democratic majority.
“Tonight we have the opportunity, the historic opportunity to reform health care once and for all,” said Senator Max Baucus, Democrat of Montana, and a chief architect of the legislation. “History is knocking on the door. Let's open it. Let's begin the debate.”
Make a Change! Be Responsible! - OPINION - by Sandy Nazemi - November 21, 2009
In the United States the freedom exists for citizens to express opinions about the government openly. The best place for citizens to express opinions is at the polling place where citizens vote for their governmental representatives. Voting is not only a Constitutionally given right, rather it's a constitutionally assigned citizen responsibility.
Citizens in the United States long ago began to forget the purpose of voting for these representatives. Those citizens who go in and vote straight tickets related to their preferred political parties are failing themselves and their communities desperately. Along with the constitutionally given right to vote comes a constitutionally assigned responsibility to choose the candidate who best represents the will of the people and community.
Los Angeles is the
"Capital of
Homelessness" OPINION
‘Love Me if You Will; Hate Me if You Must; But for God's Sake, Don't Ignore Me'
- OPINION - by Stephen Box - first appeared in CityWatch
The City of Los Angeles is the "Capital of Homelessness" and yet the non-profit groups who endeavor to create and operate Permanent Supportive Housing facilities are left to fend for themselves in communities that want solutions "anywhere but here" to a problem that is most often, simply ignored.
This past week the Gateways Hospital and Mental Health Center made another appearance at the East Hollywood Neighborhood Council, this time with modifications and adjustments to their proposed facility on the border of the East Hollywood and Silver Lake communities ..
from the White House - Nov 12, 2009 - by Joshua DuBois
President Obama announced the creation of the White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships on the 17th day of the President's new Administration.
Since then, our Office has been pretty busy! I thought it'd be helpful to give you a little context on what we've been up to.
Our office is situated within the Domestic Policy Council. This placement allows our office to have close interaction with governmental leadership on issues of importance to nonprofit organizations ..
Each morning when I wake up and put on this uniform, I am proud to be a member of the LAPD family, and now I'm honored to have been selected as the leader of this extraordinary family, its 56th Chief of Police.
To be a part of the history of this great organization in the capacity of Chief is humbling and I can honestly say, a bit overwhelming. But I would not have even considered applying for and pursuing the position had I not felt deep in my heart that I am truly the right person at the right time for this organization. I have been entrusted with the critical job of continuing to ingrain the many changes we have experienced over the past 7 years into the very DNA of this organization.
Authorities Find Body of Missing 5-Year-Old North Carolina Girl
- mother was accused of offering her for sex - SANFORD, N.C.
A missing 5-year-old whose mother was accused of offering her for sex was found dead off a heavily wooded road in a rural area Monday, ending a weeklong search, police said. Searchers found Shaniya Davis' body early Monday afternoon about 100 feet off a road southeast of Sanford, in central North Carolina, Fayetteville Police spokeswoman Theresa Chance said.
New Veterans Website Highlights Veteran Employment and Contracting Opportunities
- Nov 11, 2009 -
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano today unveiled a new website designed to provide a one-stop location for veterans and veterans organizations to learn about DHS' many veteran outreach initiatives and hiring and contracting opportunities.
"This new website reflects the shared commitment across the Department to hiring American veterans," said Secretary Napolitano. "Veterans play a vital role in the Department's mission to protect the nation ..
Catching fugatives
with the popular
social networking
web site
by Phil Trexler - Medina, Ohio - Beacon Journal staff writer
Police in Medina, Ohio, have found Facebook.com the perfect place to revisit old friends they haven't seen in a while. The department is using the popular Internet social network to seek out suspects wanted on warrants. Officers this week became ''friends'' with their first suspect, nabbing a man wanted on an old warrant for drug charges. Medina police believe they are the first in Ohio, if not the country, to use Facebook to catch fugitives.
''Thirty years ago, we posted wanted fliers at the post office; today it's Facebook,'' police Chief Patrick Berarducci said.
by Madeleine K. Albright - from Parade Magazine - published: 11/02/2009
Twenty years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, the former Secretary of State says:
Two decades ago, when the Berlin Wall came down, I was a professor at Georgetown University. My area of expertise was Central and Eastern Europe, where for decades the forces of freedom were held in check. Then, in the space of a historical eye blink, everything changed. As the Berlin Wall fell in 1989, repressive Communist regimes began to topple, too.
That year, the people of Poland, led by dissident dockworkers ..
AARP highlights Medicare, other fraud - Wheelchair abuse
From the AARP November Bulletin - By: Jay Weaver - Source: From the AARP Bulletin print edition -
They indulge their wildest whims -- a private helicopter, Lamborghini sports cars, thoroughbred horses, even a “Pirates of the Caribbean” water theme park. For the schemers and scammers, Medicare fraud is one crime that does pay—and pay and pay. Medicare loses billions of dollars to fraud each year.
“Those billions of dollars,” said Eric Holder, U.S. attorney general, “represent health care dollars” that could be spent on medicine or ..
Honoring and Serving America's Veterans - Nov 11, 2009
On a day meant to honor the service and sacrifice of America's veterans, we wanted to highlight a handful of service member-specific initiatives at the Justice Department. The Justice Department's Civil Rights Division works to protect the rights of those who have protected us – America's veterans – by enforcing laws that defend their employment, voting and financial security rights.
The Department of Justice is proud to serve our Nation's service men and women .. [and] .. with our partners, we salute these Americans.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Love is
Respect
~~~~~~~~~~~~
resources for
teens, parents,
friends and more
loveisrespect.org - The National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline was launched in February, 2007 through a collaboration between The National Domestic Violence Hotline and Liz Claiborne Inc.
It is a 24-hour national web-based and telephone helpline created to help teens (ages 13-18) experiencing dating abuse.
“If teens are not turning to their parents for help, it is essential that they have a private outlet where they can discuss their fears with someone who will provide immediate assistance” said Sheryl Cates, Chief Executive Officer of the National Domestic Violence ..
As Thanksgiving approaches Justice For Murdered Children, a 501c3, non profit organization, begin to think of giving and bringing comfort to families in Los Angeles County that have lost a loved one to murder.
In previous years it has been one of our commitments to provide Thanksgiving Dinner Baskets to these families in hope that it will help them get through the day in the mist of their loss .. a small way to let them know that they have not been forgotten.
Our thanks from LACP and "Community Matters"
to those who keep us free ..
The Rape of Hope - OPINION - by Ron Wolff (Posted first at Musings from Claremont - from LA CityWatch)
A Los Angeles Times article (10/31/09) included a story horrifying in its brutality -- in more ways than one. -
Recently, a 15-year-old girl was gang raped outside a high school near Oakland, California, while a homecoming dance proceeded peacefully nearby and as many as 20 onlookers jeered, took pictures, and messaged their friends to come join in the fun.
Two hours passed before any witnesses called the police.
“A History of the Medical Insurance Industry”
Senator Dianne Feinstein gave the following remarks on the Senate floor this past Monday: Statement of Senator Feinstein:
Mr. President, since most people have some form of health insurance, I decided, after many calls from constituents who have said to me: I can't afford a 20-percent increase in my medical health insurance premium, I had a 10-percent one last year, I began to look into the history of the medical insurance industry in America. I have come to the floor to discuss the current state of the private, publicly owned, for-profit health insurance industry and the ways this system must be changed during health care reform.
Bottom line: Our country is the biggest health care spender in the world. In return, we get very average results.
City Controller Greuel Releases Audit on DNA Rape Kit Backlog Audit Finds Backlog Reduced, Thousands Still Untested - (Los Angeles) Continuing her efforts to bring justice to thousands of victims of sexual assault and to make Los Angeles the safest big City in America, City Controller Wendy Greuel was joined by LAPD Chief-Designate Charlie Beck, LAPD Acting Chief Michael Downing and City Councilmember Greig Smith, to release her audit on the status of the LAPD's DNA Rape Kit backlog.
An audit by the City Controller's office ..
Did he belong in the Army? - Saturday, November 7, 2009 - by Angela K. Brown & Allen G. Breed, Associated Press FORT HOOD, Texas – There was the classroom presentation that justified suicide bombings. Comments to colleagues about a climate of persecution faced by Muslims in the military. Conversations with a mosque leader that became incoherent. As a student, some who knew Nidal Malik Hasan said they saw clear signs the young Army psychiatrist — who authorities say went on a shooting spree at Fort Hood that left 13 dead and 29 others wounded — had no place in the military.
After arriving at Fort Hood, he was conflicted about what to tell fellow Muslim soldiers about the fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, alarming an Islamic community leader from whom he sought counsel.
Our thanks from LACP and "Community Matters"
to those who keep us free ..
OPINION - Making fun of faith - Saturday, November 7, 2009 - by Jay Ambrose
Even though they may remind you immediately of the worst racists you have known, bigoted bashers of religion often get away with it no matter how shallow, uncomprehending, unfair, overly generalizing, nasty-minded or obviously hostile their attitudes are. Every now and then, however, someone strikes back, such as Archbishop Timothy Dolan of New York. On his Web site, I first learned from a New York Post article, he recently took a swing at anti-Catholicism, particularly as exhibited in the New York Times, but did not stop there. "It is not hyperbole to call prejudice against the Catholic Church a national pastime," he writes. .. [someimes] referred to it as 'the deepest bias in the history of the American people,'
Inmates saved Florida deputy's life during attack - from TampaBayOnline.com - by JEFF PATTERSON | News Channel 8 - November 4, 2009 - TAMPA - The detention deputy was sitting at his desk when the inmate attacked. The deputy is 64; the inmate 40 years his junior. Deputy Kenneth Moon had another disadvantage: He was the sole deputy in a jail pod that houses 62 inmates. The only nearby people who could help him were there because they have been charged with attempted murder, home invasion, drug dealing. And yet they did. The first one, Jerry Dieguez Jr., is in jail on an armed home invasion charge. When he saw inmate Douglas Burden put Moon in a chokehold, Dieguez didn't hesitate. He ran behind the desk and landed a haymaker of a punch on Burden. [Other inmates] .. provided backup.
The 'costs' of care - OPINION - Saturday, November 7, 2009 - by Thomas Sowell - We are incessantly being told that the cost of medical care is "too high" - either absolutely or as a growing percentage of our incomes. But nothing that is being proposed by the government is likely to lower those costs, and much that is being proposed is almost certain to increase the costs. There is a fundamental difference between reducing costs and simply shifting costs around, like a pea in a shell game at a carnival. Costs are not reduced simply because you pay less at a doctor's office and more in taxes - or more in insurance premiums, or more in higher prices for other goods and services that you buy, because the government has put the costs on businesses that pass those costs on to you.
As sworn and civilian personnel move into the new headquarters, some say they will cherish their memories of the once cutting-edge police facility - from the LA Times - by Bob Pool - October 30, 2009 - Call it the long goodbye.
Police who two months ago began packing up and leaving Parker Center for their shiny new headquarters will need another two years to finish their move. But their memories of the 54 years they spent in the Los Angeles landmark some called the "Glass House" will live forever, say those who have worked there.
"This Is About Whether We Value One Another" - October 29, 2009 - Comments by the President on New Federal Hate Crime Legislation "This is the culmination of a struggle that has lasted more than a decade. Time and again, we faced opposition. Time and again, the measure was defeated or delayed. Time and again we've been reminded of the difficulty of building a nation in which we're all free to live and love as we see fit. But the cause endured and the struggle continued, waged by the family of Matthew Shepard, by the family of James Byrd, by folks who held vigils and led marches, by those who rallied and organized and refused to give up, by the late Senator Ted Kennedy who fought so hard for this legislation -- (applause) -- and all who toiled for years to reach this day."
Health care reform: Saving American lives - by Keith Obermann - OPINION - October, 2009 - EDITOR'S NOTE: I have been seeking a non-political way to present this important current American issue. In a recent Special Comment Hour, Countdown's Keith Olbermann, a wonderful writer, pointed out that there is no higher human priority than health and therefore no more basic government responsibility than ensuring the care of its citizens. His personal experience in the last couple months was the driving force behind Mr. Obermann's presentation. Read his editorial here or, if you prefer, use the link we provide to see the compelling video version of it instead.
New LAPD Police Headquarters opens on Sat, 10/24
Oct
Grand Opening -
New Police
Administration
Building
The Grand Opening of the new LAPD Police Headquarters Building, 1st Street and Main Street (downtown), will be on Saturday October 24, 2009, at 10 AM.
This will be a major event with numerous dignitaries and tours of the new building available to the public. A FREE EVENT !!
Final Three Chief of Police Candidates-- Three great choices presented to Mayor
Los Angeles – After interviewing 13 highly qualified individuals from within and outside of the Los Angeles Police Department, the Los Angeles Police Commission provided the final three Chief of Police candidates to the Mayor for his consideration. The candidates are not ranked in order:
Charles L. Beck
James P. McDonnell
Michel R. Moore
“We had an outstanding pool of candidates to choose from. This City would be well-served by any of the candidates, but the three individuals we are forwarding today are truly outstanding,” stated Police Commission President John Mack. The next step in the Chief of Police selection process, as outlined in the City Charter, is now with the Mayor. After interviews, he will select one candidate, who then will be considered for confirmation by the City Council.
from AOL News - Oct. 28) -- Elizabeth Smart suffered a horrific ordeal as a teenage kidnapping victim, but she told an audience she has not let the nightmarish experience prevent her from living her life as she wants to. "I just have never let it hold me back," Smart, now 21, said Tuesday at The Women's Conference in Long Beach, Calif. "And I have gone on to do everything so far that I have wanted to do." The seminar, called "Overcoming the Unimaginable," marked the first time Smart has spoken publicly since testifying against her alleged kidnapper at a hearing earlier this month, NBC News said.
from Ron Kaye - All Invited to Attend in Hollywood - Saturday, Oct 24 - 12 noon - FREE !!!
I hope you can come to the Saving LA Project meeting this Saturday at noon at the Hollywood Community Center, 6501 Fountain Ave. so we can coordinate community efforts on a broad range of issues. If you look back over the year, you can see how a dramatic shift in power is taking place in LA that is changing the balance of power. It's a big mountain to climb but community groups across the city are gaining strength and those of you involved in SLAP have played an important role. This is a good time to take a look at what has been achieved and how we develop strategies to bring balance and some common sense to city affairs.
Call for Action !!!!.. by Kristin Sabo - OPINION - October 22, 2009
By now most of you have received your own personalized version of the Department of Recreation and Parks' automated response to our serious concerns about changes to the Park Ranger Division. I've attached mine here for your bemuse- and amuse- ment. My advice? File it with equally important papers like bird cage lining or scratch paper, because that is all it is. What has changed since we last discussed this? The Department officially intends to go through with the plan, although parts have been officially delayed two weeks. Take the time to learn more about this important issue !!
from the NY Post - By KATI CORNELL, AUSTIN FENNER and LEONARD GREENE - Oct 22, 2009 Big, bad Bernard Kerik wants to bunk with the regular Joes -- even if they're accused killers, rapists and muggers. The disgraced former city police commissioner yesterday refused to ask to be separated from the general population as he spent his first full day in the Westchester County jail. He's been accused of trying to taint the jury pool in his upcoming federal corruption case. So jail officials made the decision for him -- and hauled him anyway into a segregated wing reserved for cops, judges and other at-risk inmates. Kerik once was also head of the city's jails, and in 2004 was briefly a nominee to oversee the US Department of Homeland Security.
What has happened
to our kids in LA? - - - - - - -
It's an issue of
social child abuse
My Turn - OPINION - By Diana L Chapman - from CityWatch - October 20, 2009
I'm ashamed….for all of us. What happened to those children in the county system – all 268 that died in less than two years, many of whom were either murdered, killed in accidents, suicides or of other undetermined causes, should embarrass everyone. How long will it take us to get that the system simply doesn't work? The time for these fatalities to stop and for a drastic overhaul to begin is now. LACP supports community efferts and understanding of problems faced by the most vulnerable among us, which certainly includes our children. Please help with this important issue !! You can make a real difference in the life of a child !!
Here's one way ATM card thieves can get your money .. a PowerPoint Presentation - October 15, 2009 - In this amazingly explicit PowerPoint presentation from Barclay's Bank, you'll clearly see a team of ATM debit card thieves as the manage to gain control of a bank customer's card .. and walk off with his money. The pictures you'll see are really incredible, and the piece concludes with a clear explanation of how the scheme works. Be careful with your debit cards and PIN numbers.
Don't Shrink LAPD's Departments .. a C-PAB Member's OPINION - October 15, 2009
Hello, My name is Betty Ley and I'm the Citizen Secratary for Mission C-PAB as well as their Outreach Committee Chair. I'm coming to you in hopes that you will assist me is getting the word out re: DON'T SHRINK OUR LAPD DEPARTMENTS. Please send out an E-blast to as many C-PAB members, Neighborhood Council members and community people as you have e-mail addresses to ask for action.
Council on American-Islamic Relations - - - - - - -
struggle recognized
Asians / Muslims arm in arm for civil rights - "Bridging Communities: the Tradition of Working Together." - On Saturday, Oct. 10, the Japanese American Citizens League Pacific Southwest District (JACL PSW) awarded the Greater Los Angeles Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-LA) for its work in building bridges of understanding. The award was given at JACL PSW's 2009 Annual Awards Dinner, the theme of the event being "Bridging Communities: the Tradition of Working Together." Over the past 13 years, the awards dinner has honored people who have made a positive impact in the community.
Park Ranger issues topic of Meetings - by Kristin C. Sabo, Parks volunteer - There are numerous important Park Ranger issues on current Arts, Parks, Health and Aging Committee agendas as well as at local community meetings, one of them being held Thursday, October 8 with Councilmember Tom LaBonge. Please show up or send in your public comment to the email addresses listed. In your public comment, you may want to tell say what you want and need in the parks from Park Rangers. Be specific to your park, your community and community group. Testify .. speak out !!!
Drug Problems - Yesterday and TodayMy Parents Drug Me - The other day, someone at a store in our town read that a Mewtamphetamine lab had been found in an old farmhouse in the ajoining county and he asked me a rhetotrical question, "Why did we have a drug problem when you and I weer growing up?" I replied, "I had a drug problem when I was young." (and it was my parent's fault).
Congress of Neighborhoods
and
Community
Budget Day
The Congress of Neighborhoods and Community Budget Day will be on Saturday, October 10, 2009 at Los Angeles City Hall located at 200 North Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012. The event will be taking place from 8am to 3:30pm. You may arrive at 7:30am to register. Empower LA 2009: A Congress of Neighborhoods is a powerful one-day opportunity featuring intensive workshops, forums and meetings for residents, Neighborhood Council leaders, community activists, and local non-profit organizations.
EDITOR'S NOTE: The following is a tip forwarded to LACP by one of our readers. I thought it a novel idea and decided to pass it on. Feel free to send your common sense public safety tips to me here at LA Community Policing. Who knows? Maybe your tips will appear on the web site too !! Neat idea. Never thought of it before. Put your car keys beside your bed at night - If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house, just press the panic button for your car. The alarm will be set off, and the horn will continue to sound until either you turn it off or the car battery dies. This tip came from a neighborhood watch coordinator.
Historic Event Has LA Stakeholders Taking Action- By Greg Nelson (CityWatch) Don't miss the Neighborhood Council Action Summit this Saturday at LA City College from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. For the first time, neighborhood council activists and stakeholders will be able to discuss AND amplify their voices by voting on positions regarding several issues that would rock the boat so much that City Hall has avoided them. ( EDITOR'S NOTE: LACP's Bill Murray helped organize this important event )
Remarks by Secretary Napolitano - Dept of Homeland Security Guarding against terrorism is the founding purpose of our Department. Addressing this threat will always remain our highest priority, and as a major part of this mission, we are continually bolstering our efforts against domestic threats. The way to secure our country from this type of terrorism is the same way we must secure it from terrorism in general. This is a shared responsibility in which all Americans have a role to play. The federal government; law enforcement on the state, local, and tribal levels; and the American people are the lines of defense against terrorism, whether foreign-affiliated or homegrown. They complement each other, and they must work together.
The Truth About Policing and Skid Row -- Summer 2009 proved that poor people’s best friend is the LAPD, not homeless advocates. . The homeless industry on Los Angeles’s Skid Row lost its final shred of legitimacy this summer. Three murders and their aftermath exposed the advocates’ opposition to assertive policing as dangerous, hypocritical posturing. Los Angeles officials should reorient their funding priorities in light of the lessons of the summer of 2009. For 25 years, Skid Row constituted a real-world experiment in the application of homeless-advocate ideology. The squalor that engulfed the 50-block district just east of downtown Los Angeles was the direct outgrowth of advocates’ claims that the homeless should be exempt from the rules of ordinary society.
by Phil Willon and Joel Rubin - LA Times - A prominent attorney has been tapped to join the Los Angeles Board of Police Commissioners, filling out the depleted civilian panel at a pivotal time as it begins the search for a replacement for outgoing Police Chief William J. Bratton. Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announced his nomination of former U.S. Atty. Debra Wong Yang to the commission at a news conference held during the opening of the city's new, high-tech Emergency Operations Center in downtown LA.
Layoffs, Furloughs and Union Concessions: The Prolonged and Painful Process of Balancing City Budgets - September 22, 2009 -- In a typical year, a big-city government spends two or three months wrangling over its annual budget. The mayor makes a proposal, the city council offers some amendments, and it's done. Not so in this year of the Great Recession. With state and local governments facing ongoing revenue declines, the budget process in many cities now seems virtually endless, with constant adjustments needed as the bad news keeps coming. And the choices don't get any easier. With unemployment rates high, the public's appetite for tax increases is low, as is the willingness of city employees to accept reductions in compensation or jobs.
"Justice For Murdered Children" is located in Los Angeles. Former President George Bush in 2007 made September 25, “National Day of Remembrance For Murder Victims”. This year Homicide Victim organizations thru out Southern California have united to put on our First Southern California National Day of Remembrance For Murder Victims event at the Hall of Administration (plaza area), 500 W. Temple, L.A., on Sept. 25, from 11:00 am-2:00 pm. Attorney General Jerry Brown and Former Director of OVC John Gillis are our guest speakers. Los Angeles County Sherriff Lee Baca and Los Angeles Police Deputy Chief McDonald will do the roll call of all fallen officers. Victim's families will do roll call of other homicide victims.
President Obama
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See text of full
speech and video
President ObamaProclaims Sept. 11th a National Day of Service and Remembrance - "Let us renew our resolve against those who perpetrated this barbaric act and who plot against us still. In defense of our nation we will never waver; in pursuit of al Qaeda and its extremist allies, we will never falter. Let us renew our commitment to all those who serve in our defense -- our courageous men and women in uniform and their families and all those who protect us here at home. Mindful that the work of protecting America is never finished, we will do everything in our power to keep America safe. Let us renew the true spirit of that day. Not the human capacity for evil, but the human capacity for good. Not the desire to destroy, but the impulse to save, and to serve, and to build. On this first National Day of Service and Remembrance, we can summon once more that ordinary goodness of America -- to serve our communities, to strengthen our country, and to better our world."
Are You Ready? - from the White House - by Erin Edgerton - September 13, 2009 - September is National Preparedness Month and a great opportunity for your household, business, or community to focus on preparedness. It is recommended that all Americans have an emergency supply kit and an emergency plan, and be informed about the different emergencies that can happen in their area and the appropriate responses.
Neighborhood Councils Action Summit - Saturday, Oct 3rd - by Greg Nelson.EDITOR'S NOTE: We're pleased to report the Neighborhood Councils Action Summit, a prelude (and an alternative, for some) to the upcoming Mayor's Budget Day, will be held Saturday, October 3rd. LA Community Policing has long supported such grassroots neighborhood Council efforts, and our founder, Bill Murray, has been an active participant in planning / developing community groups designed to get stakeholders from across the City to consider issues that are regional and city-wide in scope. This is the latest attempt ..
Please attend this important event. Every voice matters ..
City in Financial Crisis- community largely asleep - OPINION by Bill Murray - September 13, 2009 - The City of Los Angeles faces what will be perhaps its most severe financial crisis ever, and the community seems to be sleeping. A few of us, members of the LANC Coalition, were treated to a special presentation on the issue last weekend .. a seminar really .. by Councilman Bernard Parks, Chairman of the LA City Budget and Finance Committee. His unique perspective and deep knowledge of how the City's finances work were not lost on the approximately two dozen of us who gathered on the Westside to hear his presentation. .ALSO: See my soultion inside ..
Emergency Preparedness Fairs - Save These Dates... by Brian Humphrey, LAFD Spokesman
Dear Friend of the LAFD:
You are cordially invited to join Los Angeles Firefighters and their families at an 'Emergency Preparedness Fair' in September. Plan to join us at one of *two FREE events* hosted by the City of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department.
Criminal tees - Ohio judge forces crooks to wear 'criminal-tees' that fit the crime, such as 'I'm a thief' - by Samuel Goldsmith -lNY DAILY NEWS September 7, 2009 - This court-ordered shirt is sure to upset the fashion police. An Ohio judge is forcing some convicted crooks to wear neon green t-shirts that read "I'm a thief" in bold black lettering as public punishment. District Court Judge Jeff Robinson thinks petty criminals in his northern Ohio town will learn to behave better if they wear his unique "criminali-tees."
Boosting For Billions - South American Immigrant Gangs Engaging In Shoplifting
- from CBS.EDITOR'S NOTE: There's a short 30 sec video within this article, but the link at the bottom has one that is 4 mins long. Every single consumer in the U.S. pays the price. Amazing how fast these people work! - 60 Minutes' Correspondent Steve Kroft reports on South American immigrant gangs who are shoplifting merchandise worth billions of dollars annually. (CBS) "Boosting" is organized shoplifting, and if you think it's a petty crime, think again. As Steve Kroft first reported in February, approximately $10 billion in merchandise is stolen from stores every year -- and retailers are just beginning to realize that a huge chunk of it is being taken by gangs of highly skilled, well-organized professionals from South America. .Check out the videos !!
Sept 2, 3, 9, 10 - A Report LA Community Policing plans to attend all the community meetings and any other important public events regarding the picking of a new LAPD Chief of Police..EDITOR'S NOTE: Here's just SOME of what happened on September 2, 3, 9 and 10, 2009 .. and we'll have more to come. We even have pictures! LACP did LIVE "Community Matters" talk show during the two Wed meetings from the venues (available now on demand). We also recorded the entire meetings on audio tape and even did some video recording! We'll have much more on these and all the community meetings soon (and we'll be attending them all!). Listen to all our "Community Matters" talk shows "on demand" .. they're archived.
The Los Angeles Personnel Department invites the public to take an online survey designed to obtain the most desired qualities to be considered in the Chief of Police selection process. The survey may be taken by clicking on “LAPD Chief of Police Qualities Survey/Your Opinion Counts.” The survey will be available until September 17, 2009. At that time, the Personnel Department will compile the results of the survey and present them to the Police Commission. The Police Commission is also holding five community meetings throughout the City to hear what the people of Los Angeles would like to see in their next Chief of Police. The input from both the online survey and the community meetings will be used during the selection process of a new Chief of Police. To have your voice be heard, log on to:
Monica Harmon: The Angel Among Us - LACP's good friend by LAPD Chief William Bratton & Rikki Klieman, LA Confidential - Sept 8 - In our city, there is an angel with large wings who has spread her influence far and wide. Her name is Monica Harmon. We moved to LA in October 2002, and we are eternally grateful to her as one of the people who supported us with enthusiasm and commitment. She is a champion of the men and women of the LAPD. She works tirelessly at every level to acknowledge the police and to involve those who reside in the neighborhood of Hollenbeck – as well as other neighborhoods throughout the city – in a true community partnership with the LAPD.
The Big To Do about Jaywalking Tickets - OPINION - by Senior Lead Officer Deon Joseph - September 9, 2009 . Hello everyone. Senior Lead Officer Joseph here. One of my many responsibilities is to educate the public about the realities of Skid Row, and the reasons for our focused enforcement in the area. After meeting with many people from near and far, many of them come away with a new, informed view of skid row as opposed to the many misconceptions they read about or hear from certain groups. Yet there are a few people with whom I have spoken with, who witness all of the positive changes happening in skid row before their very eyes, but cannot grasp the concept of enforcing laws for so called “innocuous” offenses in the Skid Row area.
Chief George Gascón - from the San Francisco Chronicle - August 28, 2009
Brace yourself, San Francisco. A new police chief, hired to overhaul an old-boy department, is about to cut loose. The changes spelled out by George Gascón will mean the city's nearly 2,000 officers will see their shifts changed, work routines disrupted and desks moved miles across town. Gascón, a management guru, plans a top-to-bottom makeover from the fifth-floor command center on Bryant Street down to the 10 district stations. EDITOR'S NOTE: San Francisco's new Chief of Police, George Gascón, is a long time friend of LA Community Policing, is a big fan of community based policing, and we hope to get him as a special guest on our "Community Matters" radio talk show soon!
The mayor nominates Battalion Chief Millage Peaks. from the LA Times -by Phil Willon - August 29, 2009 - If approved by the City Council, Peaks will become the second African American to lead the department. The firefighters union leader praises the choice. Peaks will take over a department that has been struggling in recent years with allegations of hazing and racial unrest among firefighters. Villaraigosa made the announcement at a City Hall news conference, calling Peaks the "right man at the right time" to lead the department through tough fiscal times while ensuring that public safety remains its top priority.
'Tagging' or just hanging out -- busted either way? - L.A.'s city attorney wants to give police the ability to arrest graffiti 'taggers' simply for hanging out together, without having to catch them in the act. The proposal raises constitutional issues. by Scott Gold - from the LA Times - August 24, 2009 - Los Angeles City Atty. Carmen Trutanich wants to give police the ability to arrest "taggers" simply for hanging out together, without having to catch them in the act -- raising thorny constitutional issues as he lays the groundwork for a campaign to tackle the city's vexing graffiti problem.
The Women's Crusade -- SPECIAL ISSUE from the New York Times - by Nicholas D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn -
August 17, 2009
IN THE 19TH CENTURY, the paramount moral challenge was slavery. In the 20th century, it was totalitarianism. In this century, it is the brutality inflicted on so many women and girls around the globe: sex trafficking, acid attacks, bride burnings and mass rape. Yet if the injustices that women in poor countries suffer are of paramount importance, in an economic and geopolitical sense the opportunity they represent is even greater. “Women hold up half the sky,” in the words of a Chinese saying, yet that's mostly an aspiration: in a large slice of the world, girls are uneducated and women marginalized, and it's not an accident that those same countries are disproportionately mired in poverty and riven by fundamentalism and chaos.
Fathima Rifqa Bary: 17-year-old Muslim to Christian convert fears for her life- Human Rights in America- EDITOR'S NOTE: This article is part of an ongong story we've discussed on our "Community Matters" radio talk show, a story we'll continue to cover. since for us its an obvious matter of human rights. - Fathima Rifqa Bary is a 17-year-old convert to Christianity. That in itself is not remarkable. The reason it is of concern is that she was raised in a devout muslim family. She is currently the center of a case that will determine if she is to be returned to from Florida to her family in Ohio who she claims will be obliged to kill her in an honor killing if she returns. See a video of Rifqa speaking about her ordeal.
In a move meant to aid in the fight against traffickers, the nation puts into practice a law letting people possess limited quantities of marijuana and cocaine, and even heroin and methamphetamine - by Tracy Wilkinson and Richard Marosi - LA Times - August 23, 2009 - Reporting from Tijuana and Mexico City --
Mired in a bloody battle with major drug traffickers, Mexico is quietly eliminating jail time for possession of small amounts of marijuana, cocaine, heroin and other drugs. The government of President Felipe Calderon says removing the penalties will help in its fight against traffickers by freeing up law enforcement resources and shifting attention from minor consumers to big-time dealers and drug lords. The law also provides for free treatment for addicts.
Homes for Our Troops - EDITOR'S NOTE - Looking for a way to make a special contribution to our returning troops? How about helping to build homes for those of them who, because of war wounds, now have special needs? Many returning vets who've survived combat now have severe disabilities, and require homes that are specifically designed for their wheelchairs and other equipment, homes that will help them continue to be productive contributing American heroes. We have some ideas that can help us all say "Thank You" to our nation's best.
The "Community Matters" special guest Thursday night was recently retired Fire Chief Don Haupt, who led both the huge Norfolk, VA, and the much smaller Coral Springs, FL, Fire Departments. Don's career spanned a time when there were dramatic innovations in fire fighting equipment, in communication technology and in public safety philosophies. Paramedic and 911 systems were completely overhauled. "Community Matters" co-hosts Bill Murray and Sandy Nazemi find out what this has meant to America's public safety community, and how volunteers can get more involved.
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Animal Welfare - Lezle Stein was our featured guest on Wed night's edition of LACP's new Internet radio show, "Community Matters". LA based dog trainer Lezle Stein participated in the Bad Boy Blue-Ray edition of "Marley & Me" released March 31st from Fox Studios. We discussed both domestic animals and urban wildlife issues, including positive reward based training techniques, with loads of tips, and fun ideas for you and your dog !! This was a terrific show ! ..
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Monday night's edition of our "Community Matters" radio show featured the non profit work spearheaded by two special people, our guests Det. Teddy Floyd of the Indian River Sheriff's Department and Ms. Julianne R. Price, who serves as the Florida State PACE Coordinator (Protocol for Assessing Community Excellence in Environmental Health). They are among the founders of an effort that's made all the difference to community members in their area, one home and one person at a time. Similar efforts may exist in your home town. Co-hosts Bill Murray and Sandy Nazemi encourage you to find out! ..
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by Phil Willon - LA Times - Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa today officially opened the city's new $107-million, high-tech Emergency Operations Center, the nerve center where officials will coordinate the city's response to major earthquakes, wildfires, acts of terrorism and other potential disasters and public safety threats. “The greatest responsibility entrusted in our government is to ensure the public safety of our constituents," Villaraigosa said. “Today, the city of Los Angeles has a 21st century facility ready to respond to 21st century threats."
by Phil Willon and Joel Rubin - LA Times - A prominent attorney has been tapped to join the Los Angeles Board of Police Commissioners, filling out the depleted civilian panel at a pivotal time as it begins the search for a replacement for outgoing Police Chief William J. Bratton. Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announced his nomination of former U.S. Atty. Debra Wong Yang to the commission at a news conference held during the opening of the city's new, high-tech Emergency Operations Center in downtown LA.
Skid row cop, LAPD
Central Division's Senior Lead Officer
Deon Joseph
Skid Row beat cop Deon Joseph wants successful African-American and Latino-American adults to tell local kids that they're “JustLike U.” - from the LA Garment & Citizen - by Sam Hassan - August 27, 2009 - Los Angeles Police Department Senior Lead Officer Deon Joseph sees plenty of what's wrong as he goes about his duties in the Skid Row district of Downtown — and so do plenty of youngsters who live in and around hard-pressed stretches of the city's center. EDITOR'S NOTE: LAPD's Senior Lead Officer (SLO) Deon Joseph has written numerous articles about his skid row experiences in Central Division, and has been a frequent contributor here at LA Community Policing. We are delighted he's getting a little well deserved attention from the local downtown newspaper, the LA Garment and Citizen. Congratulations, Deon !
Despite changes in international law and declarations by tribunals and the U.N. rampant sexual violence goes unpunished around the globe - Rape is one of the oldest weapons of war, but until recently it was treated much like looting, as regrettable collateral damage rather than as a war crime. That may be because most victims are women, often second-class citizens in their societies. It may be that rape is overshadowed by massacres, although sexual assault often leads to death. Or perhaps it is because victors and vanquished alike commit rape. Hitler's army engaged in sexual violence, and as many as 2 million German women were abused by conquering Soviet troops after World War II. The Nuremberg tribunal did not prosecute sexual crimes.
Held at the Rose Bowl - All FREE - August 29 -.Global Compassion Day will be celebrated this year at the Rose Bowl in Pasadent. The all day affair is free to the public and will include info on Employment, Health, Financial, Housing, Education, Youth, Parenting, Spiritual and more .. There will also be music, art, performances and food. Come join the free community celebration. It's sponsored by the Church of Pasadena in conjunction with the Employment Development Dept of California and the Foothill Workforce Investment Board !!
by Tony Nassif - in Irvine, CA - Sept 11, 12 and 13 - Women, children, families and even the nation are in great danger. BUT THERE IS HOPE. This conference is expected to be the best one yet. Please read the conference information below and register early. Attached are some important information. I personally look forward to seeing you at the conference.I wish to personally invite you, your families, associates and friends to the 7th Preventing Abuse Conference in Irvine, CA.
Friday's radio show was about "Preventing Abuse" -
from the White House - August 6, 2009 - John Brennan, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism, spoke today at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. It has been a busy six months since the President took office, but Brennan stressed that the President has never lost sight of the "single most important responsibility as President" – keeping Americans safe. Brennan said the President "rejects the false choice between ensuring our national security and upholding civil liberties." .Read more of his prepared remarks.
from ICE - August 6, 2009 - U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Asst Secretary John Morton announced today that ICE is undertaking a major overhaul of the agency's immigration detention system. "This change marks an important step in our ongoing efforts to enforce immigration laws smartly and effectively," said Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano. "We are improving detention center management to prioritize health, safety and uniformity among our facilities while ensuring security, efficiency and fiscal responsibility."
ATF Citizen Academy the real thing .. sorta LA Times article tells the story - EDITOR'S NOTE: I recently attended a DHS / FEMA training where some of my fellow classmates were alumni of the ATF Citizen Academy, the subject of the following article from the LA Times by Scott Glover. I've been invited to attend the next one, and, judging from this, I'm looking forward to it!. Mock maneuvers in the ATF's Citizens' Academy produce both bumbles and serious lessons in agents' work, whether it's surveillance or shooting a foe.
Chief Bratton is the topic of Thursday's radio talk show
Aug
Chief Bratton
by Bill Murray - Thursday's Radio Show about Bill Bratton - LAPD Chief William J. Bratton announced that he would be ending his service at the Department on October 31st, surprising almost everyone. Bill Murray, founder of Los Angeles Community Policing and host of the "Community Matters" talk show, reflects on the extraordinary accomplishments experienced under Chief Bratton's seven year tenure and explains to co host Sandy Nazemi the process of selecting a new leader at the helm of Los Angeles Police Department, and how the community may be involved. Call in .. let us know how you'd rate Chief Bratton and the LAPD.
Thursday's radio show was about Chief William Bratton -.
by Jacques Billeaud (AP) - PHOENIX - It was a scenario U.S. law enforcement had long feared: A fragmentation grenade from Mexico's bloody drug war tossed into a public place. Only the grenade thrower's bumbling prevented bloodshed in a south Texas bar — he neglected to pull a second safety clasp. But the act was proof that one of the deadliest weapons in Mexico's drug battle is a real threat to the US, and investigators are stepping up efforts to make sure it doesn't happen again.
by David Baldacci - from PARADE Magazine - As chief of police in Washington, D.C., Cathy L. Lanier never has the luxury of easing into the day. Her mornings begin with a jolt at 5 a.m., when the BlackBerry messages start arriving from Joe Persichini, assistant director of the FBI's D.C. field office. These urgent missives cover terrorism, joint-task-force missions, and current national-security intelligence. Lanier's schedule is punishing, to say the least. And thanks to her discipline and commitment, the 42-year-old has attracted national attention as one of the most successful big-city police chiefs in America.
Thursday, August 13, 2009 - 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Carmen A. Trutanich welcomes the residents of LA to the City Attorney Neighborhood Forum. Please join us at City Hall for an evening with the City Attorney and his team. We will learn about the first weeks of the new administration and the legal issues facing your neighborhood. The City Attorney’s remarks will be followed by your questions. Hosted by the Trutanich Transition Team (LA's newly elected City Attorney).
by Bill Murray - LACP.org - EXCLUSIVE - August 3 -.Maria Cruz, a 14 year old girl last seen walking near Cal State LA, has not been seen since August 1, 2009. Please post this email and link in local list serves and other online venues. Those who may have seen Marie, or have any information about where this little girl is, should call the Hollenbeck Police department at (323) 342-4101 .LA Community Policing is dedicated to helping find missing people.Take a look at the picture. Imagine if this was your daughter ! EDITOR'S NOTE: Maria was later returned home safely after being a runaway for three days and spending her nights in a park.
by Bill Murray - It's America's Night Out Against Crime! .A host of community events are planned across the country on Tuesday, August 4, 2009, in connection with celebrations for the 26th Annual National Night Out crime prevention program, a unique crime/drug prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW). No matter where you are we want you to please take part !!
by BongHwan Kim, DONE Manger - As of July 30th, the work of the 89 individual Neighborhood Councils and the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment will be referred to by the new name “EmpowerLA.” The new name was developed to provide a communications platform for showcasing the success stories and achievements of the individual Neighborhood Councils.
by Ron Kaye - OPINION - July 30 -..I have long harbored the idea that LA -- where poverty has increased faster than anywhere else in America except Detroit -- should pay people to leave town and start a new life somewhere else. It's not the kind of thing I've talked about much, given the fact we're the Politically Correct Capital of America as well as the Homeless Capital -- and the Meanest City in in the country our treatment of the homeless. But maybe it's an idea whose time has come.
by Bill Murray -EDITOR'S NOTE: I attended the Police Commission meeting on Tuesday, July 14, and met a group of folks representing the Los Angeles Community Action Network. They explained they were there to give public comment on a just released report which lists Los Angeles as topping the list of "Meanest Cities in America" to the skid row homeless. Los Angeles Community Policing has followed the plight of the homeless since its inception. The community of government workers, merchants and, increasingly now, residents of refurbished or new lofts and apartments in the downtown area are perhaps understandably concerned about "doing something" about LA's skid row. But at what cost? And using what methods? The homeless are among the weakest in our society and yet face the most challenges, too. Many are simply down on their luck and others have physical and / or mental incapacities .. and are desperate for assistance. Read the "Meanest Cities Report here ..
Now at 6pm PT - SPECIAL TWO HOUR EDITION !! - by Bill Murray .- Homeland Security was the topic of Monday evening's special two hour LIVE edition (now archived and available "on demand") of LACP's "Community Matters" talk radio show. The US Department of Homeland Security's training for community members, held in LA this weekend as a pilot program, was a first ever event of its kind. Special guest Dr. Cliff Cheng, the event coordinator, joined host Bill Murray, founder of Los Angeles Community Policing (LACP.org), and co host Sandy Nazemi for an analysis of the success of the class .. and the likely hood it will be repeated in other locales for yet more community members. Other guests included class members themselves. This was historic, as it marked the first time this important material had ever been offered to regular community members. Many law enforcement, military, first responders, hazmat folks and other government employees have gone through the class before, but its never been taught to just "people" .. ordinary citizens. Read more about the DEA / FEMA MGT 310 class inside ..
Arroyo Seco area CERT "tarp drill" a big success in Hermon .. sponsored by local neighborhood council .. ASNC.us by Bill Murray - Local CERT "tarp drill" a big success ..I'm so proud of my fellow local actrivists! Our neighborhood council, the Arroyo Seco NC, helped sponsor a wonderful and successful CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) "tarp drill" last weekend .. and it was a huge success. The event took place in the beautiful LA community of Hermon. Here's all about it. Don't miss the wonderful pictures by LACP's photojournalist, Martha Benedict !!
Secretary Napolitano : I must admit that in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), it is somewhat of a large government department. So we are undergoing what we call efficiency review, looking for ways to make sure that we spend every dollar, every penny we get, wisely. So I thought I would bring my CFR membership dues here today, so I could save the cost of postage. So Paul, I'll just leave these here for you. Now, the council is an institution I deeply appreciate, because it's one of the rare places where people will show up early in the morning, at breakfast time, to hear about threats of terror and government response. And this will be the highlight of your day.
Looking for the mission of a lifetime? The U.S. Department of Homeland Security headquarters seeks motivated students looking to contribute their unique insight, skills and talents to support the important mission of securing the homeland.
Our headquarters offices offer volunteer internship opportunities for full-time and part-time college or university students during the fall (until mid-to-late December) and spring (until mid-to-late May) academic terms. Academic credit will be awarded in accordance with the appointee's work schedule and his/her individual college or university policies.
CHICAGO - A Wheeling, Ill., man who allegedly took sexually explicit photos and movies of a young girl and traded the images online was arrested and charged in federal court Thursday. The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Darrick Boroczk, 32, of Wheeling, was arrested early this morning by ICE agents and charged in a criminal complaint for enticing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing child pornography. Boroczk is scheduled to have an initial appearance at 3 p.m. Thursday before U.S. Magistrate Morton Denlow in federal court in Chicago.
NOGALES, Ariz . - U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has launched a criminal investigation into the circumstances leading up to the stop last night of a refrigerated tractor trailer truck outside of Nogales, Ariz., carrying 97 smuggled aliens, including children and at least one pregnant woman. The truck was pulled over for an equipment violation at approximately 9:00 p.m. by an officer with the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). The stop came after DPS received a tip from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The stop was made at the 24 kilometer marker on I-19 north of the city.
by Bill Murray..On Friday's edition of "Community Matters" .. our talk radio show .. we covered the topic of Racism in America, following the incident that occurred recently between an African American Cambridge professor and a local police officer. Bill Murray, founder of Los Angeles Community Policing (LACP.org), led a spirited discussion during which several people participated, including an Asian immigrant from Florida, a professional white woman from Ohio and a black man from Maryland.
by Gary Toebben, LA Chamber of Commerce.- July 21 -..Gary Toebben is president and CEO of the LA Chamber of Commerce and writes a weekly column...Urban cities and police departments across the nation are bracing themselves for the peak of summer - traditionally the most violent time of year. Here in Los Angeles, the gang capital of the world, youth in many at risk communities will have a safe place to spend hot summer nights thanks to the Summer Night Lights program made possible by the city, community groups and local businesses.
by LAPPL - LOS ANGELES, July 21 - The Los Angeles Police Protective League said the state budget deal which calls for the early release of 27,000 inmates from state prisons will put the public's safety at risk and will increase the number of victims and the cost of crime in California. According to news reports, legislators have agreed to allow some inmates to finish their sentences on home detention, creating new incentives for the completion of rehabilitation programs and scaling back parole supervision for the least serious offenders.
Sheriff Baca says state budget will require closing jails or reducing deputy patrols -by Richard Winton, LA Times - Sheriff Lee Baca told The Times the proposed state budget poses a threat to public safety in L.A. County and will force officials either to shut down some jail facilities or remove deputies from street patrol. He said the most likely jail to close would be the North Facility at Castaic and that some special Sheriff's Department task forces and community-oriented policing programs also would face cuts.
by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa - I just wanted to share with you some updates regarding one of the most successful programs from my first term: Summer Night Lights, or SNL. I just blogged about the program on Huffington Post, and the NY Times ran a great piece on it over the weekend. An anti-gang initiative that keeps parks open after dark -- during the peak hours for gang activity -- SNL provides job opportunities and organized activities for at risk youth, including athletic leagues, art initiatives, family programs, and free food and drinks. In 2008, SNL led to a 17% reduction in gang crime across participating neighborhoods. This year, we've expanded the program from 8 to 16 parks, and a key goal of my second term is to put SNL in 50 parks across the city.
The Flag waves over Hollenbeck Station on it's first morning.
from LACP - At 12 noon on Saturday, July 11, the Los Angeles Police Department's (LAPD) Hollenbeck Area Community Police Station officially became operational at its new location .. and Los Angeles Community Policing was there! I was joined by LACP.org photojournalist, Martha Benedict, who has prepared a presentation that includes pictures she was able to take when we were invited back to attend the first roll call, at 5:00 pm Saturday. See Martha's unbelievably exclusive pictures inside the article !!!!
by Ron Kaye -EDITOR'S NOTE: This is an article from our friend Ron Kaye, a dedicated community member who will be a scheduled special guest on our "Community Matters" radio show next week. Be sure to take a look at his websites, below, and feel free to contact him by email. July 9, 2009 - I hate myself on days like this when it seems so clear it's my fault -- and yours. The state is broke, the city is paying its bills with credit cards, the schools are a disaster, the traffic a nightmare, houses are worth half what they were, people are losing their jobs in record numbers and all we can talk about is poor Michael Jackson. What the hell is wrong with us anyway -- with me?
from the LA Daily News - OPINION- WHATEVER happened to community representation for the sake of community representation? Elected positions in Los Angeles are some of the most coveted in the state. Not only are most of them lavishly paid (the Los Angeles City Council, for example, is the highest-paid council in the nation), they also offer visibility that officeholders in Fresno and San Diego can only dream about. And the perks ... well, the car perks alone - free car, free gas, free maintenance - make them dream jobs.
Some conservatives say the U.S. has won the fight against racism, but the battle still has many fronts - from the LA Times - OPINION- The United States has undergone a profound and remarkable transformation -- but what exactly does it mean? To some Americans, it means that today, 145 years after the abolition of slavery, we can finally check race relations off the list and move our focus to the other pressing problems that face the country. Others say that's ridiculous and that, Obama or no Obama, the work of creating a truly egalitarian, nondiscriminatory society remains far from finished.
by Brian Humphrey - LAFD Spokesman - Dear Friend of the LAFD: Periodically, we share a digest of *non-incident* articles from the Los Angeles Fire Department blog. We welcome you to click the links below that interest you - but first, please save these dates. Do you know someone who would like to join (or leave) this e-mail list? Simply have them visit us .. See all the LAFD news and info
Michael Jackson' Memorial Service cost a bundle - Who pays? by Sandra Nazemi - OPINION - A recent article published in the LA Times indicated that the Mayor stated LA would pick up the tab for expenses related to the Michael Jackson Memorial service. In my opinion this is a correct call that will without a doubt lead to a heated debate regarding who should be responsible. In deciding who is responsible for the costs of security for such a large unexpected event, take a good look at who would have been blamed if riots, disturbances or any other acts of violence or destruction had occurred.
from LAPD - July 9, 2009 - Within his regular responsibility to deploy police resources, the Chief of Police can draw upon on an approved overtime budget when regular on-duty resources are depleted or at critical levels. In the Michael Jackson-related events, existing resources in affected geographic areas were quickly reduced to minimum operating levels. Within minutes of the arrival of emergency medical personnel at the residence of Michael Jackson, details began to spread across the City and around the globe. Crowds began to form at several locations within the City. These assemblies created a variety of public safety concerns, including but not limited to crowd management, emergency access, traffic flow, theft and quality of life issues.
White House, Pentagon. more on List of Targeted Sites - EDITOR'S NOTE: Unfortunately in today's world targets of opportunity for terrorists are not limited to buildings and facilities in America or at our Embassies. Because of the Internet we're all "connected" and those with malicious intent have a whole new way to cause us harm.from AP - WASHINGTON (July 8) — The powerful attack that overwhelmed computers at U.S. and South Korean government agencies for days was even broader than initially realized, also targeting the White House, the Pentagon and the New York Stock Exchange.
Newly elected Los Angeles City Atty. Carmen Trutanich exhibited a bit of the aggressive style he promised during his campaign when he made an unusual appearance today before the City Council. Trutanich told officials he was investigating how the city ended up on the hook for police costs surrounding the Michael Jackson memorial. He assured the council that his new management team was going to find out how the city got into the position of providing support for the event and how it could recoup some of the money. His staff is also researching legislation “so we won't be caught in this lurch again,” he said.
Michael Jackson's death will cost the city millions - In the midst of the salutes and celebration some LA folks are getting steamed bout what it's going to cost for cops and cleanup. One Northwest Valley taxpayer fired off a hot letter to the City Council. “This is an outrage and an insult,” she wrote, “to all the citizen homeowner taxpayers in the City and County of Los Angeles! The city and county, according to you, is bankrupt!.
from LA Daily News - President Obama put out the call .. but will L.A. residents answer it? In the wake of a new White House volunteering initiative, but in a city with one of the lowest volunteer rates nationwide, Los Angeles-based charities hope that others will soon discover what Doherty already knows. Charities hope President Obama's "United We Serve" program - a three-month nationwide campaign encouraging volunteerism in education, health, energy and environment signed into effect June 22 - could inspire Angelenos to give a bit more of themselves. Of the nation's 50 biggest cities, Los Angeles ranks 44th in terms of the population that has ever volunteered: just 21.6 percent, or one out of five Angelenos.
by Peter Greenberg - from Parade Magazine - July 5, 2009
When the fire alarm sounds, across America, grocers immediately leave their checkout lanes, architects put down their pencils, plumbers drop their wrenches, chefs hand over their cooking chores, and telephone repairmen leave the lines cut. Our nation's volunteer firefighters are always prepared to serve. Of the estimated 1.15 million firefighters in the U.S., 72% are volunteers.
by J. Scott Orr - OPINION - from Parade Magazine - July 5, 2009
The State Department now hands out multimillion-dollar rewards for information on terrorists, and spokespeople for the department claim that the unprecedented size of the bounties has helped to neutralize countless threats. Already this year, rewards topping $13 million were offered for information on six members of al-Qaeda and the Filipino terror group Abu Sayyaf. Some $80 million has been paid out to more than 50 informants, most since the program was intensified after the 9/11 attacks.
by Sandra Nazemi - For every missing person, there is a mother, father, brother, sister, husband, daughter, son, best friend, or neighbor experiencing an emotional emptiness and pain which can never imagined by most. This is a never-ending pain which will never leave them until they discover what happened to their loved one. Please take the time to look at the missing endangered adults listed for the Los Angeles area on the National Center for Missing Adults (NCMA) website. We posted the Los Angeles area since LACP.org mainly focuses on the LA area .. but there are many missing adults from across the country...Please take a moment to look closely at the pictures of Missing Adults posted in the article.
from LACP - EDITOR'S NOTE: Here's another sample of one of the 10 winning essays in this years contest. As they say, "Out of the mouths of babes .." All 10 winning essays can be found on the LAPD website. We posted another one on June 23rd..The 6th Annual LAPD Essay Contest was open to students in the 6th, 7th, and 8th grades enrolled in the LA Unified School District and schools in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Students were asked to write what they would do that would have the greatest impact on the community if they were a Los Angeles Police Department officer for a day. Each of the ten winners and their essay are featured on the LAPD's website, one each week.
Class dates are July 25-26 (Department of Homeland Security Training) by Bill Murray - My good friend, Cliff Cheng, Ph.D., will be our "Community Matters" talk radio show's special guest on Thursday, July 23rd. An active participant at LACP, Cliff is part of the Disasters Volunteers' Training Network of Greater Los Angeles. He's coordinating a very special US Department of Homeland Security training for volunteers, which teaches them to recognize vulnerabilities to terrorism. Dr. Cheng notes that, until now, DHS has not permitted volunteers to receive this expensive training, normally given only to law enforcement and first resonders. Instructors are flying in from Washington to teach is as a pilot program, a unique opportunity for community members. Call in to the radio show ! .Ask him questions !!
by Lezle Stein - Dear Pet Lover: Every year the skies light up with beautiful fireworks displays, which we love to watch. To dogs and cats, these bright light bursts and bangs are terrifying and completely stressful. And it's not just the big fireworks display events on the 4th of July, but the weeks before and after when individuals love to have their own backyard fireworks parties. Listen for Lezle on an upcoming edition of LACP's new Internet radio show, "Community Matters"
from LAPD - July 9, 2009 - Los Angeles: At 12 p.m. this Saturday, July 11, the Los Angeles Police Department's (LAPD) Hollenbeck Area Community Police Station will officially become operational at its new location. The address of the new facility is 2111 E. First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90033. A new phone number, effective July 11, is 323-342-4100.
Street Closures/Traffic Management Plan for Funeral of Michael Jackson - LA Department of Transportation - for Tuesday, July 7th -
In the interest of providing those who work and live in the downtown area with up to date information to allow advance planning for daily activities, the DOT map showing the street closures and reroutes for the funeral of Michael Jackson, set for July 7, 2009 is attached. The open/closed times are displayed on the map in the hexagonal symbols. Of course, these are subject to change to address emergent traffic needs.
July 4th fireworks will be seen all around LA County - from the LA County Fire Departments - Ever since Santa Monica banned fireworks years ago, it has become increasing difficult to find a great fireworks show in the LA area. Inside you'll find a list of show locations and schedules for fireworks in Los Angeles County.
from LACP - Tues, June 30, 2009 - Among the Police Commission agenda items discussed: a report on the disciplinary actions taken as a result of the May 2007 incident, a discussion of the discipline system itself, a verbal presentation on the in-car video system (now being tested) and a report on the status of Miranda admonishment guidelines.
Award for outgoing Police Commissioner Anthony Pacheco
from Kristin Sabo (parks volunteer) June 29, 2009 -- The city of Los Angeles reinstated its summer long push to cut down on gangs in local parks. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, LAPD Chief William Bratton and other community leaders kicked off the Summer Night Lights program on Monday. This year the program will expand from eight to 16 parks. The Summer Night Lights programs include keeping city parks open after dark and offering organized activities and after-school programs for at risk youth. The program will also help teens find jobs.
Sir Robert Peel's Nine Principals Applied to Modern Day Policing by Sandra Nazemi - Born in Bury Lancashire in 1788, Sir Robert Peel was a social reformist, who served as Prime Minister, Home Secretary, and in other offices during his lifetime. During his time as Prime Minister, Peel passed modern legislation addressing working class issues. He introduced The Mine Act of 1842, prohibiting women and children from working underground in mines and The Factory Act of 1844 limiting the number of hours worked by women and children employed in factories.
Councilman Huizar (CD-14) says the community needs legal assurances that the Southwest Museum will be reopenedLOS ANGELES June 30 - Councilman José Huizar's proposal today to link the Autry Museum's planned 79,000 square-foot expansion in Griffith Park to a legal agreement to restore and reopen Mt. Washington's Southwest Museum enjoyed unanimous support today at a Board of Referred Powers hearing, chaired by Councilmember Janice Hahn. A standing room only crowd gathered in City Council chambers to listen.
by Bradley - Hello Residents, Northeast Stakeholders, and Citywide NC's: Here is the LA Times Story of the 1st Annual Drew-Estara Neighborhood Block Party. We want to also thank the CBO's, the GPNC, the GPIA, the GPCC, GRYD Program, City Attorney's Office, CHLA, and the CD13 Office for their support and participation in the Block Party. Many of us interviewed did mention that this could not have been successful without their input.
by Bill Murray - OPINION - .On June 16th, I was on hand at City Hall to hear a presentation and spirited testimony regarding an issue I've long thought needed to be resolved, the wearing of LAPD officer uniforms by security personnel working on location for film and tv show production companies. The presentation and discussion that ensued was held in the Public Works Room at City Hall, which can accommodate more participants than the relatively tiny and cramped chamber in Parker Center where the Police Commission normally meets.
California Fair Elections Act - something to consider- by Bill Murray
EDITOR'S NOTE: LA Community Policing supports this ballot initiative in principal, giving Californians an opportunity to vote for the chance to install a pilot program that would go into effect in time for the 2014 election for the office of CA Attorney General. Los Angeles Community Policing supports initiatives that provide voters the opportunity to express their opinions, one way or another. . Read all about the CA Pilot Program inside ..
United We Serve; summer service initiative - from the White House EDITOR'S NOTE: These remarks by President Barack Obama are music to our ears here at LA Community Policing, and reflect the same message we've been carrying since our inception in early 2002, namely that community volunteerism and participation, large and small, make tremendous, vital and important contributions to improving the quality of life. June 16, 2009 - Remarks from President Barack Obama: "United We Serve will be led by the Corporation for National and Community Service, and it will run from June 22nd through September 11, a National Day of Service and Remembrance. And I hope you will continue the service-work you begin this summer for the rest of your life. Because America's new foundation will be built one community at a time -- and it starts with you."See the President on Video
The White House has downplayed expectations for a meeting next week of lawmakers involved in the issue. Some Democrats say they might not be able to pass a citizenship plan until after the 2010 vote. EDITOR'S NOTE: This article first appeared in the LA Times and suggestd the tough decisions regarding immigration reform America will need to make in the coming years.by Peter Wallsten, LA Times - Reporting from Washington — Lawmakers will gather at the White House next week for a working session on immigration reform, a meeting that has been highly anticipated by Latino leaders eager for President Obama to honor his campaign promise to put millions of undocumented workers on a "pathway to citizenship." But many Democrats are now concluding that they may well not have the muscle to pass such a controversial measure -- at least not immediately, and possibly not until after the 2010 midterm election.
Police Academy graduation spotlights changes in the department since the arrival of Chief William J. Bratton.EDITOR'S NOTE: This article first appeared in the LA Times and suggests the LAPD is making big strides towards making sure the department is a closer relfection of the community it serves.by Sandy Banks, LA Times - Chief William J. Bratton has embraced the concept of community policing, and surrounded himself with like-minded brass. Mid-level cops who didn't toe the line began being squeezed out by officers rising through the ranks with reform on their minds. Or, as Assistant LAPD Chief Earl Paysinger put it, "the Neanderthal, knuckle-draggers are going the way of the dodos in this department."
from LAPD - June 18, 2009 - Spanish speaking suspects are duping unsuspecting victims into giving up large sums of money with the promise of earning a large return for their involvement. Topanga Area Detectives are asking for the public's help in identifying and locating a group of suspects that are working in pairs to target Spanish speaking individuals, walking alone. Once the suspects have engaged the victim in a conversation, they are using various scams to enlist the victim's financial help in return for a substantial profit.
from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) - LAREDO, Texas - Five south Texas county sheriffs' offices - Bexar, Willacy, Dimmitt, Webb, and Zapata - have been added to the growing list of law enforcement agencies to receive biometrics-based immigration history information about inmates via the new Secure Communities program. Secure Communities, which is administered by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), streamlines the process for ICE to determine if an arrested individual is a removable criminal alien.
from LACP - EDITOR'S NOTE: Here's a sample of one of the 10 winning essays in this years contest. As they say, "Out of the mouths of babes .." All 10 winning essays can be found on the LAPD website..The 6th Annual LAPD Essay Contest was open to students in the 6th, 7th, and 8th grades enrolled in the LA Unified School District and schools in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Students were asked to write what they would do that would have the greatest impact on the community if they were a Los Angeles Police Department officer for a day. Each of the ten winners and their essay are featured on the LAPD's website, one each week.
Special Opportuniy !!! .from LACP - Classes June 29 (required) & July 25-26 (DHS Training) - Our good friend, Cliff Cheng, Ph.D., an active participant at LACP, is part of the Disasters Volunteers' Training Network of Greater Los Angeles. He's coordinating a very special US Dept. of Homeland Security training for volunteers next month, which teaches them to recognize vulnerabilities to terrorism. Dr. Cheng notes that, until now, DHS has not permitted volunteers to receive this expensive training. Flying instructors in is expensive, so this is a pilot progam, and a unique opportinity for community membes. Citizens academy grads are able to apply. He's asked me to help him get the word out. .Read his letter and program info here ..
Preserve the Southwest Museum and Griffith Park..Take Action - write and attend the important meeting - by Kristin Sabo (parks volunteer) June 26, 2009 - Here is information, care of the Friends of the Southwest Museum, concerning the situation I talked about on the LACP "Community Matters" radio show Thursday. I hope those concerned with LA's parks and particularly Griffith Park and the Audry / Southwest Museum issue will take this unique opportunity to get involved with making sure the Los Angeles City Council does the right thing!
from Congressman Xavier Becerra - June 19, 2009 WASHINGTON, D.C.- Three House committees announced their draft proposal to reform our health care system and ensure affordable, quality health care. The committees on Education and Labor, Energy and Commerce and Ways and Means have worked together to present a uniquely American plan that reduces costs to consumers, protects current coverage and preserves the choice of doctors, hospitals and health plans. Representative Xavier Becerra, Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, praised the tri-committee proposal.
PPL appeals to the public - Here's a note from the Police Protective League, the union for the rank and file LAPD officers. They are asking the public to show it's support for public safety as THE priority in LA, saying: Los Angeles is in a financial crunch and we are afraid that city leaders are about to make some dangerous budget choices. We hope you will help us tell City Hall to put Public Safety First by signing our petition to fully fund the Los Angeles Police Department. .See the link to the petition inside ..
from LAPD - June 18, 2009 - Los Angeles: On May 30, 2009, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) detectives arrested three suspects accused of impersonating police officers who entered victims' homes and stole property. Incidents have occurred in multiple areas of the city, including the San Fernando Valley. On May 28, 2009 at 5:30 pm, three suspects posing as LAPD undercover narcotics officers knocked on an apartment door in the 400 block of N. Normandie Avenue in Los Angeles. The victim answered the door and was asked by one of the suspects if “Juan Dominguez” lived there. Before she could answer, one suspect pushed the door open and stated they were police officers who were conducting a narcotics investigation.
by Attorney General Brown and LA City Attorney Delgadillo - Fighting to protect the rights of students who have been "indiscriminately terrorized" by gang violence, Attorney General Edmund G. Brown Jr. and Los Angeles City Attorney Rocky Delgadillo today announced that they have filed a lawsuit seeking an injunction that creates a 1.4 square-mile gang-free zone around Fremont High School in Los Angeles. This injunction would be the first-of-its-kind and would impose a daytime curfew on members of four violent street gangs (the Swan Bloods, Florencia 13, the Main Street Crips, and the 7-Trey Hustlers/Gangster Crips) to prevent them from being on the streets while students walk to and from school, from assembling with other gang members, and from harassing and intimidating law-abiding citizens.
from the LAPD -June 15, 2009 - Washington, DC; Chief William J. Bratton, in his capacity as the President of the Major Cities Chiefs Association, testified before the National Criminal Justice Commission (NCJC) to make recommendations for improvements to the criminal justice system. The NCJC was formed recently as a result of the National Criminal Justice Commission Act of 2009, introduced by Virginia Senator Jim Webb in March of this year. The commission is charged with a comprehensive 18-month review of the country's entire penal system.
It started as an innovative school project, and ended up the nation's new flag - by Richard H. Schneider - I've always been interested in the flag. I pledged allegiance to it as a schoolboy. I fought for it in Europe during World War II, and it was here to welcome us soldiers on our return home. The Stars and Stripes had 48 stars for the 48 states back then. But in the late fifties, things changed. Two new states were joining the union. How would the new flag accommodate them? Well, not too long ago while researching a book on the flag, I read about the man who came up with the 50-star design. In fact, he was not even an adult at the time. He was just a 17-year-old high school kid in Lancaster, Ohio. I gave him a call to hear his remarkable story.
posted by Sonal Shah and Robynn Sturm - from the White House - June 11, 2009 - President Obama began his career as a community organizer. He understands the power of getting involved in our own communities to shape the issues that affect our lives. Local organizations and solutions are making a real difference in our lives. It is by working together to shape and influence government on the local, state, and federal level that we become more powerful and effective.
Conflicting court gun opinions may result in linking the 2nd Amendment with the 14th.EDITOR'S NOTE - This appeared as an LA Times OPINION article. June 10, 2009 - Two federal appeals court opinions -- one signed by Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor -- have created a quandary for those who cherish the protections of the Bill of Rights and also believe in meaningful gun control. But the way out of the dilemma is not to urge the high court to pick and choose which constitutional rights are protected against state and local laws. Among the charges leveled by some conservatives against Sotomayor is that she has been insufficiently protective of the 2nd Amendment, which says that "the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed."
fromPresident Obama - Over the past four months my administration has taken decisive steps to seize the promise and confront these perils. We're working to recover from a global recession while laying a new foundation for lasting prosperity. We're strengthening our armed forces as they fight two wars, at the same time we're renewing American leadership to confront unconventional challenges, from nuclear proliferation to terrorism, from climate change to pandemic disease. And we're bringing to government -- and to this White House -- unprecedented transparency and accountability and new ways for Americans to participate in their democracy.
National Strategy to Reduce Drug Trafficking - from the Department of Homeland Security June 5, 2009 - Today, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, U.S. Department of Homeland Secretary Janet Napolitano, and Director of National Drug Control Policy Gil Kerlikowske released President Obama's strategy to stem the flow of illegal drugs and their illicit proceeds across the Southwest border and reduce associated crime and violence in the region. The National Southwest Border Counternarcotics Strategy directs Federal agencies to increase coordination and information sharing.
Protect Public Whistle-Blowers; They're needed more than ever - EDITOR'S NOTE: This appeared as an LA Daily News OPINION article. June 9, 2009 - WHAT'S an ethical county employee supposed to do? Those workers who report waste, fraud and abuse often face a backlash from supervisors and colleagues, and get little or no support from county leaders. Rather than protect whistle-blowers, Los Angeles County officials show them the door - at a time when we need them the most.
from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) - GILROY, Calif. - A total of 17 foreign nationals with ties to violent street gangs in Santa Clara County are facing federal and state criminal charges or deportation this morning following a day-long enforcement operation involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), two area police departments and the California Department of Justice Bureau of Narcotics Enforcement. The arrests were made as part of an ongoing initiative by ICE's National Gang Unit called "Operation Community Shield."
LAPD Chief Bratton Named President of Prestigious Major Cities Chiefs Association- The Major Cities Chiefs Association (MCC) has elected LAPD Chief William J. Bratton as the organization's new president.LAPD Chief Bratton Honored by Queen Elizabeth - The British Consulate-General, Los Angeles and LAPD are delighted to announce that Chief Bratton has been honored by Queen Elizabeth II with the honorary title of Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.
Chief Bratton to Receive Penrith Award - Chief Bratton will be receiving the prestigious Penrith Award in recognition for his significant contributions to the law enforcement community nationwide.
CA AG Brown Sues 53 Individuals, 17 Telemarketers and 12 Charities that Exploited Donors' Desire to Help Cops, Firefighters and Veterans - from the Office of the Californina Attorney General May 29, 2009 - Los Angeles - As part of a nationwide crackdown on fraudulent charities, Attorney General Edmund G. Brown Jr. is filing today eight lawsuits against 53 individuals, 17 telemarketers and 12 charities that "shamelessly exploited" people's generosity and squandered millions of dollars of donations intended to help police, firefighters and veterans.
from Daily News Wire Services - The president of the Police Commission, a civilian panel that oversees the policies of the LAPD, announced he is resigning to devote more time to his law practice. Anthony Pacheco has served on the commission for four years, the last two as president of the five-member board."I have worked diligently to enhance community relations, foster best policing practices, seek the successful conclusion of the Consent Decree and address key issues (such as gang violence and homelessness and institutional changes to the department)," Pacheco wrote in his resignation letter to the mayor. His resignation is effective July 1.
Force nearly matches ethnic makeup of city as police gain trust of minority communities.EDITOR'S NOTE: This appeared as an Editorial in the LA Daily News, and congratulated the LAPD for significant improvements made over the last several years. It refers to a recently completed Harvard Report that we presented here on LA Community Policing..As the Los Angeles Police Department enjoys a resurgence of its public approval, one of the key factors has been a sharp increase in the diversity of the force, to nearly match the texture of Los Angeles itself..Do you think LAPD's doing well as it diversifies? What else would you suggest?
The sweeping police reforms that L.A. agreed to in 2000 have taken hold. Now oversight of the LAPD should revert to the Police Commission.EDITOR'S NOTE: This appeared as an Editorial in the LA Times, and lays out the argument to end the Consent Decree. Do you think the Federal Courts are ready to do so? Do you think LAPD's ready to be running without the Court's supervision?.The real argument for lifting the decree is that it is has worked. When the decree was first agreed to, public confidence in the LAPD was exhausted (morale, incidentally, was at rock bottom as well)..What do you think?
from LAPD - Keep yourself and your family safe by making sure everyone wears their seat belts for every trip. That's the message that the Los Angeles Police Department is telling drivers as part of the 2009 start-of-summer Click It or Ticket mobilization, May 18 through 31, 2009. No warnings will be given out, as the LAPD will be aggressively enforcing the state's occupant protection laws. The Click It or Ticket campaign relies on heavy enforcement and public education as a means to help save lives on California's roadways.
Community Meeting Wed, May 27, to Help Spend Recovery Act Money - Residents are invited to attend a community meeting to review the Mayor's proposed Community Development Block Grant (CDBG-R) Budget from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The City will allocate approximately $19.2 million to stimulate the economy through measures that modernize the city's infrastructure, improve energy efficiency, expand educational opportunities and access to healthcare.
Obama's White House Promises America's Assistance - by the AP - NOGALES, Ariz. - This is what the Obama administration's new commitment to help Mexico fight its drug cartels looks like. President Barack Obama this spring promised his Mexican counterpart, Felipe Calderon, that the United States would fight two of the biggest contributions U.S. residents make to the drug cartels Calderon has vowed to eradicate: cash and weapons, the latter hard to come by in Mexico. For the past five weeks, hundreds of agents participating in a newly intensified $95 million outbound inspection program have been stepping into southbound traffic lanes, stopping suspicious-looking cars and trucks.
Chief William Bratton along with Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and members from the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University held a press conference to announce the findings of a 10-year study conducted by the renowned university. The independent study, which was funded by the Los Angeles Police Foundation, offers an analysis of data provided by the Department which includes Use of Force issues, discipline, leadership and governance, and Department perception among the community.
A proposed L.A. ordinance has merit, but some families could be victimized by one unruly offspring. - LA Times Editorial - Blame the parents. Everyone else does. The legislative trend these days is to fine parents for their children's misdeeds, especially if the not-so-little not-so-darlings skip school or damage property with graffiti. The anger over out-of-control youth is justified; the willingness to judge all parents by their children's behavior, less so. Chicago is pushing for a parental-fault graffiti ordinance, and the Los Angeles City Council is poised to pass such a measure Wednesday, following the recent adoption of an identical measure by the county.
Rep. Becerra Votes for Final Version of Bill to Help Families Save Their Homes - The House of Representatives voted to pass an amended version of S.896, the Helping Families Save Their Homes Act, part of a joint effort by Congress and President Obama to stabilize the housing market and keep families in their homes. Representative Xavier Becerra (CA-31), Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, voted for the legislation. READ ABOUT THE BILL
from ICE - ANCHORAGE, Alaska - A California man who traveled to Alaska with the intent of sexually abusing two young children was sentenced Wednesday to 36 years in federal prison and a lifetime of supervised release, following an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Danny Michael Harvey, 47, of Lancaster, Calif., was convicted in November 2008, following a jury trial for attempted aggravated sexual abuse, manufacture of child pornography, transportation and posession of child pornography.
by Ron Kaye - The City Council, in its continuing show of disrespect for Neighborhood Councils and community activists of all types throughout LA, tried to gut funding for NCs by 80 percent. But they backed down after more than 100 activists spoke at Tuesday Budget and Finance Committee meeting. That is not the end of the story. This is not about money. Empowerment and Respect are the issues. And now is the time for community groups of all types to come together and make a stand, to demand a full partnership with government so we can revive our neighborhoods and achieve our goals from preserving the Ballona Wetlands and the Southwest Museum to making our streets safe and getting the basic services we have a right to expect.
1,696 Weapons Taken During Citywide Gun Buyback ProgramEDITOR'S NOTE: A recent OPINION piece in the LA Times characterized the City's Gun Buyback Program, which exchanged $100 and $200 gift cards for a weapon, as a feel-good event, one which would not have much effect on public safety. We disagree. LACP believes collecting every "extra" or "unused" or "not needed" weapon that would otherwise be left laying around matters, and is a step in the right direction. However, we do agree that events like this do not relieve any of us from the responsibility to engage in serious ongoing discussions about gun registration and safety.
by Sandra Nazemi - OPINION - Regarding the article previously posted on LACP written by Senator Jim Webb entitled "Why We Must Fix Our Prisons" ..The overall general attitude toward felons in this country is not condusive to reducing the recidivism rate. Paying your debt to society often means a life sentence for most felons, even those convicted of non-violent crimes. Many parolees released from prison are banned from adequate and affordable housing and suitable employment just because they have a felony record. With such an unforgiving society, one doesn't need to marvel at the high recidivism rates throughout this country.
by Kristin Sabo (parks volunteer) - The Los Angeles City Council begins final budget decisions on Monday, May 18. As of this writing, Rec and Parks is exactly where it was on April 30th, facing $30-$60 million in cuts a 24% loss of work force.loss of 1/4 of the Park Rangers and their chief. Meanwhile, the Mayor will be continuing to hire more police officers in spite of the fact that Chief Bratton says crime in Los Angeles is at 1950s levels. (1956, to be exact). Does this make sense to you? People who use and enjoy parks make up one of the largest stakeholder groups in Los Angeles, if not the largest. Yet Rec and Parks is always the first department to get cut.
by Senior Lead Officer Deon Joseph - Skid Row Cop's OPINION - In the United States of America we are allowed freedoms that many other nations do not enjoy. We have freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom from unlawful searches and seizure. Yet for many in the skid row area, there seems to be a lack of freedom to voice their opinions about issues within their residences. Recently, several brutal murders occurred here which prompted meetings with many tenants of low income supportive housing. They have expressed to me that they desire stronger police presence to deal with the criminal element that live in and loiter around the buildings they are trying to rehabilitate in.
by Bill Murray - OPINION - Special to CityWatch..Its taken years, but the Los Angeles area Neighborhood Councils may have finally found a common cause, the need for financial support, and perhaps will come to see their real political strength can only be achieved when they learn to band together. The proposition to drastically cut the budgets of each neighborhood council by 80%, from $50,000 a year to about $11,200, and to prohibit the NCs from rolling over unspent funds, was floated at the recent Budget and Finance Committee by LA City Councilmen Bernard Parks and Greig Smith (while at the same time protecting their OWN offices' generous budgets) .. and it may be the best thing that's happened to NCs since their inception.
Each year, the C-PAB (Community Police Advisory Board) in conjunction with the LAPD Community Policing Unit (CPU), Community Relations Office (CRO), the LAPD Commission, and the Regional Community Police Advisory Boards convene an"invitation only" Citywide CPAB Summit to engage members, city, county, and state officials on current public safety and crime prevention measures Citywide and Nationwide. We are excited to introduce this year's theme as "C S I (Crime Scene Investigation) 2009 CPAB Summit" which is inline with much of the popular programming we enjoy on television, radio, and read in the news today. It will be held on Saturday June 6, 2009 from 7;30am - 2:30pm at the California State University, Los Angeles LA Hertzberg-Davis Forensic Science Center, 5151 State University Drive in East Los Angeles.
by William J Bratton, LAPD Chief - May 2009 - We Will Never Forget..To protect and to serve does not come without its sacrifices – the sacrifice of time away from loved ones, the sacrifice our families make, and for a valiant few, the ultimate sacrifice made while in the line of duty. We all know far too well the dangers of our profession and the bravery and dedication with which we wear the LAPD badge. Each May, during National Police Officer Memorial Month, we pay tribute to those courageous officers who with their own lives defended the badge and upheld their commitment to the freedoms our democracy provides and police officers protect. In return, we pledge to them and their families that we will never forget them, their sacrifices, and those that they leave behind.
Public safety supports a bill that would help keep potential drunk drivers from starting their cars - EDITOR'S NOTE: This first appeared in the LA Times as OPINION - Everyone knows it's dangerous and illegal for a sloppy drunk to get behind the wheel and power the car home through an alcoholic haze. And it's certainly dangerous and illegal for a tipsy twenty-something starlet or a trashed fortysomething actor to buzz through city streets among the rest of us. Consider it sheer luck if their reckless behavior hasn't yet caused injury or death. If any of these folks start up a vehicle again without first proving beyond a shadow of a doubt that they're sober, it'll be too soon. ..LACP couldn't agree more!
Los Angeles – The Los Angeles Police Commission unanimously approved the creation of the “LAPD Purple Heart Medal,” which will be awarded to the families of officers killed in the line of duty and to officers who sustain traumatic physical injury during an on-duty tactical situation.“Today, the Commission made a strong statement about its appreciation for the sacrifices our officers and their families make, day in and day out,” stated Police Commissioner Alan Skobin. “This day, and the LAPD Purple Heart, belongs to all of those who have protected the City we care so much about.”
Follow this advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people: Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact others to keep from infecting them.
by Greg Nelson - to LANCissues (an LA Community Policing effort) ..Let me try and answer some of the questions that you all have been raising. There really wasn't a vote in committee. I viewed the committee meeting this morning online at the city's website. Smith and Parks led the attack. The CLA was prepared to suggested one way to launch the attack. At the end, Parks made a suggestion, the one you're now reading about. It was one of those "without objection" type of moments. Parks made his suggestion and nobody else on the committee objected or spoke up. The committee still needs to meet again and cast its final votes. That should be May 12.
Special Information Bulletin - from DONE ..This is a CALL TO ACTION.. The Board of Neighborhood Commissioners is urging every NC Board member to immediately communicate to the City Council the serious impact of the proposed budget cuts to the NC Funding Program as proposed by the Budget & Finance Committee. The Committee recommended allocation of only 1 million dollars to fund the NC System for fiscal year 2009-2010, which breaks down to just over $11,000 per year. The Neighborhood Council system is important to the City, and the effects of such drastic funding cuts will be felt throughout. It is suggested that every NC Board member prepare a brief, two-minute statement that conveys the consequences of the proposed cuts to their NC. The volunteer corps of NC people has been dealt a near fatal blow, and we need NC Board members to make their voices heard.
Everyone Welcome To Visit Firehouse !!!..The second Saturday of May is designated "Fire Service Recognition Day" in LA. Members of your Los Angeles Fire Department host an Open House at every Neighborhood Fire Station to warmly welcome visitors of all ages. On Saturday, May 9, 2009, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Neighborhood Fire Stations throughout the City of Los Angeles will be expecting your visit. A GREAT FAMILY EVENT !!!
Join us on May 14th for the LANI 7th Annual Community Forum! This free day-long event is designed to provide real and useful tools for individuals to make positive changes in their own communities. Learn how you can improve the neighborhoods of Los Angeles one block at a time! .FREE !! EDITOR'S NOTE: LA Community Policing can easily recommend you attend the Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative (LANI) 7th Annual Community Forum on May 14. LACP was a participant of the first several Annual LANI Forums, facilitating workshops on community-based policing. The event has become better, and even more worth your consideration, through the years.
LAPD gives out $100 / $200 "gift cards" - Angelenos who turn in a gun to the police department -- regardless of whether the firearm has been used in a crime -- will receive a gift certificate as part of the city's gun buy-back program, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announced. On May 9, the Los Angeles Police Department will be at 20 locations throughout the city to accept guns in exchange for $100 and $200 gift cards. LAPD officials do not plan to run ballistics tests on any of the collected firearms to match them up to unsolved crimes, in hopes that that will encourage Angelenos to participate in the program."This is an opportunity to make a real difference for our children and families. It's a chance to take matters into our own hands and prevent the next tragic shooting and the next unnecessary murder," Villaraigosa said.
from the White House - April 21 - The President has just signed the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, joined by Senator Kennedy, President Bill Clinton, the Congressional leaders who supported the legislation, and countless others dedicated to passage of the bill at the SEED School, where service is a core part of the curriculum. Appropriately, the President announced a major call to service: "A week from tomorrow marks the 100th day of my administration. In those next eight days, I ask every American to make an enduring commitment to serving your community and your country in whatever way you can. Visit WhiteHouse.gov to share your stories of service and success. And together, we will measure our progress not just in number of hours served or volunteers mobilized – but in the impact our efforts have on the life of this nation."
from the LAPD - April 30 - DNA Finally Links Many Old Cold Cases
Los Angeles: Los Angeles Police Department Robbery Homicide Detectives have announced the arrest of a 72-year-old man who has been positively linked to two LAPD Cold Case homicides. The suspect, John Floyd Thomas Jr., is also linked by DNA evidence to murders being investigated by the Inglewood Police Department and Los County Sheriff's Department. Additionally, he is suspected in as many as thirty murders and scores of rapes occurring in the Southland during the 1970's and 1980's.
by Paul M. Weber - April 27 - This March marked a dubious milestone for American law enforcement. With four officers killed by a gunman in Oakland, it was the first month since Operation Iraqi Freedom began that the number of police officers murdered on American streets equaled the number of U.S. military personnel killed by hostile fire in Iraq. Our police officers are being put on the defensive by mass murderers and increasingly, the officers themselves are being specifically targeted. Yet, despite the outpouring of support for officers and their families in the immediate wake of these incidents, there is no outrage and no demand for more resources to fight against these increasingly violent and well-equipped criminals.
Testimony of Secretary Janet Napolitano before Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committe - I appreciate this opportunity to testify about the Department of Homeland Security's role in the U.S. effort to combat the campaign of violence waged by drug cartels in Mexico, and about the Department's efforts to keep Americans safe from this security threat. The violence in Mexico is not only an international threat. It is a homeland security issue in which all Americans have a stake. America has a significant security stake in the success of Mexico's efforts against drug cartels. The cartels that Mexican authorities are battling are the same criminal organizations that put drugs on our streets and use violence as a tool of their trade. Illegal drugs, money, and weapons flow both ways across our border and inextricably link the United States and Mexico in our efforts against drug cartels.
an LA Times Debate - OPINION - EDITOR'S NOTE: Americans struggle to find a balance between the rights of gun ownership and gun regiatration laws that are too loose, allowing criminals and the mentally disturbed to obtain weapons. The following is a series of articles, a debate on the subject, that first appeared over several days in the LA Times.The Debaters: (1) Paul Helmke, a former three-term mayor of Fort. Wayne, Ind., and past president of the U.S. Conference of Mayors, is president of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence (2) Richard Feldman is the author of "Ricochet: Confessions of a Gun Lobbyist." Previously, he was executive director of the firearm industry's trade association and a regional political director for the NRA.
LADP's pursuit policy works - EDITOR'S NOTE: Several years ago we at LA Community Policing extensively covered the modification to the LAPD Pursuit Policy, a process that took months. We agree that any knee jerk modifications would be ill advised, as the revised policy has resulted in far fewer law suits, injuries and lives lost. The following info appeared in the LA Times. Under the LAPD's rules for chasing suspects, officers are given some discretion and allowed to rely on their judgment, but are directed to do so within thoughtful boundaries. In initiating or continuing a pursuit, they're expected to consider the potential risk to the public, the speed of the chase compared with surrounding traffic, the weather and the seriousness of the original offense.
by Scott Glover - The growing database includes more than 500 female victims, most of whom were killed and their bodies dumped at truck stops, motels and other spots along popular trucking routes crisscrossing the U.S.
The FBI suspects that serial killers working as long-haul truckers are responsible for the slayings of hundreds of prostitutes, hitchhikers and stranded motorists whose bodies have been dumped near highways over the last three decades. Federal authorities first made the connection about five years ago while helping police link a trucker to a string of unsolved killings along Interstate 40 in Oklahoma and several other states. After that, the FBI launched the Highway Serial Killings Initiative to track suspicious slayings and suspect truckers..EDITOR'S NOTE: This appeared in the LA Times.
from the Transportation Security Administration. WASHINGTON – The TSA announced today the implementation of the Secure Flight program, which shifts pre-departure watch list matching responsibilities from individual aircraft operators to TSA and carries out a key recommendation of the 9/11 Commission. To date TSA has assumed the watch list matching responsibility for passengers on domestic commercial flights with four volunteer aircraft operators and will add more carriers in the coming months.
by Lt. Sunil Dutta, Phd, LAPD Foothill Division - On March 21, Lovelle Mixon killed four officers in Oakland. He was a suspect in another homicide and rape of a 12-year-old child. He victimized families and destroyed many lives during his short life of 26 years. Mixon's constant run-ins with the law and his transformation into a monster are not isolated incidents; he is emblematic of hundreds of thousands of criminals who enter our broken criminal justice system and spend their entire lives cycling in and out of prison. I cannot even count how many times I have seen repeat customers at the Los Angeles Police Department on their road to jail again. My experience is not an exception. Our criminal justice system is broken.
by Muhammed Qasim, IslamOnline correspondent - April 7, 2009 WASHINGTON - Leading Muslim organizations and community leaders welcomed President Barack Obama's assertion that Islam is not the enemy, hoping this would be reflected in policy changes on the domestic front as well."We appreciate President Obama's positive initiatives on the international front," Dr. Agha Saeed, chairman of the American Muslim Taskforce on Civil Rights and Elections (AMT), a coalition of major national Islamic organizations, told IslamOnlin.net.
by LA Controller Laura Chick - Instead of planning now for near and long-term future needs, the City is reactionary, concentrating only on filling current openings. There is no succession plan to deal with retirements from a workforce that is older than the national average. I am painfully aware that some of the recommendations in my report require additional dollars that are not available during this City's current budget crisis. .EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the final work to emerge from LA City Controller Laura Chick's office, as she moves on to take a new job for the State of California. Over the years at LACP we have carried many of the reports she produced during her tenure, and applaud her responsible stewardship. We wish her the best in her new position.
by Senator Jim Webb (VA-Dem) -EDITOR'S NOTE: This article first appeared in Parade Magazine - America's criminal justice system has deteriorated to the point that it is a national disgrace. Its irregularities and inequities cut against the notion that we are a society founded on fundamental fairness. Our failure to address this problem has caused the nation's prisons to burst their seams with massive overcrowding, even as our neighborhoods have become more dangerous. We are wasting billions of dollars and diminishing millions of lives. We need to fix the system. Doing so requires a major nationwide recalculation of who goes to prison and for how long and of how we address the long-term consequences of incarceration.
by Marc Lacey, The New York Times - CONFLICT: Many question the high cost, daunting fallout of the crackdown - REYNOSA, Mexico - An army convoy on the hunt for traffickers rolled out of its base in this border town under the control of the Gulf Cartel - and an ominous voice crackled over a two-way radio frequency to announce just that. The voice, belonging to a cartel spy, then broadcast the soldiers' route through the city, turn by turn, using the same military language as the soldiers. "They're following us," Col. Juan Jose Gomez, who was monitoring the transmission from the front seat of an olive-green pickup truck, said with a shrug. The presence of the informers, some of them former soldiers, highlights a central paradox in Mexico's ambitious and bloody assault on the drug cartels that have ravaged the country. The nation has launched a war, but it cannot fully rely on the very institutions - the police, customs, the courts, the prisons, even the relatively clean army - most needed to carry it out.
by Bill Murray - Councilman proposes rescinding term limits for Chief -
In a move that's bound to provide controversial discussion across the City, Councilman Herb Wesson has proposed a change in the city charter that would allow an LAPD Police Chief the possibility of a third 5 year term. Following the Rodney King beating, acquittal of officers and subsequent riots in 1991, the Christopher Commission placed term limits on the LAPD chief (a maximum of 2 five year terms) as one of it's central recommendations. No chief since had been reappointed to a second five year term .. until Chief Bratton .. who has served LA for about seven years and has about three more years left. Councilman Wesson's motion, if accepted, will likely result in a series of public hearings where community comment will be sought. The residents will be given the opportunity to speak to the issue across the city..What do you think? We hope you'll take the opportunity to participate in the hearings.
by Barbara Boxer, United States Senator - March 25, 2009 - Dear Friend: On June 1, 2009, passport requirements will change, impacting many Americans. The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative will require that all U.S. citizens ages 19 and older must provide a valid passport book, passport card, or other travel document that denotes identity and citizenship to enter the U.S. upon returning from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda. U.S. citizens will no longer be able to prove identity and citizenship by relying on an oral declaration alone. The goal is providing standardized documentation that enables the DHS to quickly and reliably identify a traveler.
by LA Controller Laura Chick - Ever since the mid 1990s when I was a City Councilmember. I wondered what actually happened with the conditions we imposed when approving development projects. The City often sets requirements to shape and improve a project, promote safety and mitigate negative impacts to communities. Now as Controller, I have circled back to answer the question: "Who ensures that the requirements attached to these developments are followed,?" The answer is: "No one." We are actually often relying on voluntary compliance by the developers. My report found that. in general, there is no single Department in charge of development projects from beginning to end. The Planning Department is indeed the lead agency in imposing conditions. However other Departments, such as Building and Safety, can add or change conitions without including the Planning Department.
Rep. Becerra Votes for Budget that Makes Stategic Investments to Strengthen the Economy - WASHINGTON, D.C. - The House Budget Committee debated and voted to favorably report a responsible 2010 budget resolution that embraces President Obama's vision and key priorities. Representative Xavier Becerra (CA-31), Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and a member of the Budget Committee, voted for the resolution and released the following statement: “Faced with the difficult task of digging us out of the Bush deficits while investing in our long-term economic strength, President Obama and Chairman Spratt put together a solid plan that moves us in a new and better direction. The House budget incorporates the president's four major priorities - investing in health care, clean energy and education, while cutting the deficit in half by 2013. The priorities and tough choices made in this budget build on our ongoing efforts to bring our economy out of recession, into recovery and on to a prosperous future for American families."
by LAPD Chief Bratton - At a Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) news conference today, Chief William J. Bratton discussed his recent trip to Washington, D.C., in connection with asking the federal government for funds from the economic stimulus package for law enforcement. His goal is to fund continued hiring for law enforcement agencies throughout the country as they face potentially higher crime rates resulting from the economic downturn. In part, Chief Bratton's proposal stems from a recent study by the Rand Corporation that calculates the high cost of crime and emphasizes the importance of maintaining low crime levels nationally because better policing efficiency has substantial cost savings and is a vital investment in the future,.
by Tamar Todd - OPINION - People are serving 25 years to life in California for drug possession, for stealing a pizza, and in one especially sad case, chocolate chip cookies. This month the California Supreme Court heard arguments in the case of Richard Allen Davis, who kidnapped and murdered a young girl named Polly Klaas over 15 years ago. The murder of Polly Klaas led to a wave of fear among Californians. That fear quickly turned to outrage and that outrage quickly led to the most heavy-handed, over-reaching, costly, and ineffective sentencing policy in California history. This policy has cost the state billions of dollars to incarcerate thousands of people convicted of nonviolent offenses for extraordinarily long periods. EDITOR'S Note: What do you think?
by SLO Deon Joseph - Picture in your mind, a loved one; your mother, father, son or daughter. Now picture that same loved one struggling with addiction and homelessness in one of the most crime ridden areas in the city of Los Angeles, Skid Row. Imagine them being unable to break the cycle of addiction because of constant temptations despite help in the form of a rescue mission or drug program, just steps away. This is the cruel reality for countless members of the skid row community, who have the desire to change their lives, but crumble under the weight of criminality.
from Laura Chick, LA City Controller - During the last two decades there have been countless studies, reports, consultants, adhoc committees, ballot initiatives, and hundreds of miIIions of dollars spent to stem the gang crisis. It will take continued leadership and vigilance to see that the gang reduction blueprint and follow-up audit are implemented fully and effectively. Millions of grandparents, parents and young people are counting on us to deliver. See the Executive Summary and download the full Report inside
from LAPD - March 4, 2009 - Los Angeles: Today, the Mayor of Los Angeles and Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Chief William J. Bratton held a news conference to announce the Department's milestone achievement of deploying 9,895 active-duty sworn officers on the force. This accomplishment is a direct result of the coordinated efforts of the LAPD Recruitment and Employment Division and the City Personnel Department Public Safety Bureau.
by Barbara Boxer, United States Senator - March 4, 2009 - Dear Friend: The recently passed American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan, better known as “the stimulus bill,” is often described as a series of very large monetary figures. But the real goal of the bill was to create jobs, jumpstart growth, and transform our economy for the new century. Almost everyone in America will see the change that will be created by this bill. Let me provide some examples of what it will mean for average Californians. See the benefits and the full bill ..
Advisory for all CERT members in Los Angeles
Mar
by Captain/Paramedic Stacy Gerlich, CERT Unit Commander - Due to a recent earthquake swarm near Bombay Beach in the Salton Sea area, we are asking that all CERT members make sure that their ready bags are deployable should the need arise. Please understand that this is NOT an ALERT! Should something change, you will be notified through the automated system or via email.
Thank you for your cooperation.
from LAPD - Los Angeles: Captain Blake Chow has been assigned to Central Area as the first Commanding Officer of Asian descent in Downtown Los Angeles, in the history of the LAPD. He is also the highest ranking Chinese American officer in the Department. Captain Chow has an interesting and varied life story. He is a third generation Chinese American whose grandparents immigrated to America in the early 1900s from Southern China. He grew up in San Jose California. Chow's father, an engineer by trade, died when he was only 17-years-old, but the legacy of a hard working family gave Chow a strong work ethic and determination to fulfill his dreams. Chow's mother was a teacher and is credited with instilling in him the drive to persevere and to succeed.
from LAPD - Los Angeles: The LAPD, in a collaborative effort with the Department of Homeland Security, unveiled an expansion of the new DHS aerial technology system that will be used for the first time at this year's Academy Awards. The system, called the LA Shield, enables the LAPD to inspect critical infrastructure. LA Shield provides officials with images, geographic coordinates and inspection-related information that help to assess the security of infrastructure and allows for a real-time exchange of information with police resources on the ground. For the first time, this system will be used to help secure this year's Academy Awards ceremony.
from LAPD - Los Angeles: At a news conference today, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officially acknowledged District 1 Los Angeles City Councilman Ed Reyes' donation of six “T3” Personal Mobility Vehicles to the Department, valued at approximately $10,000 each. Distribution of the vehicles will be split evenly between three LAPD divisions (Central, Northeast and Rampart) with each receiving two units. “We are most grateful and absolutely delighted to receive these generous T3 donations from Councilman Reyes,” said LAPD Central Bureau Operations Deputy Chief Sergio Diaz. “These vehicles have many practical uses and advantages that will enhance public safety, especially in places or at events where crowds gather.” T3 Personal Mobility Vehicles are manufactured locally and are designed with substantial input from LAPD. For example, a key suggestion from the Department that became a feature in the final design was 45-degree-angle rotating headlights. .. more inside ..
from LAPD - Since October 2008, Los Angeles Police Department detectives have accomplished the most comprehensive review of frozen storage evidence in the history of the LAPD; findings provide much needed clarity. It has been widely reported that there are over 7000 untested rape kits on LAPD shelves. The issue of backlogged Sexual Assault Evidence Kits was not a new one; in fact, the LAPD, other officials, and the media have issued similar reports since 2002. In October 2008, the LAPD was already engaged in a two step plan to address the growing number of untested Sexual Assault Evidence Kits. The first step was the hiring of new criminalists, technicians and equipment to help keep pace with incoming evidence. The second step was to contract with accredited labs across the country with a goal of reducing the backlog to zero by 2013.
LA Times OPINION - A mistake that revealed the names and badge numbers of officers accused of racial profiling seems to undercut the argument that identifying cops accused of serious wrongdoing exposes them to danger. - For two years, this page has argued that the LAPD should return to its decades-old practice of releasing the names of officers accused of such serious wrongdoing that they are sent to boards of rights -- and that those board hearings should be, as they were under police chiefs from Ed Davis to Bernard C. Parks, open to the public. The department leadership has halfheartedly agreed but failed to act; the Police Protective League and its union allies in Sacramento have furiously objected and bullied those who favor legislation that would open those records and proceedings.
by Laura Chick, LA Contoller - Stunning challenges and problems face the DWP - I wanted to up-date you on the Department of Water and Power study I released yesterday. The report and the news conference are covered in today's newspapers, and I have provided the links below for you to access these stories. The 233 page report reveals stunning challenges and problems that the DWP faces. These issues could have a direct bearing on the Department's ability to provide clean drinking water and reliable power at affordable rates in the future. This report is of the utmost importance and urgency; please forward this to any one who you think should see it. DWP Report and links to newspaper articles are inside ..
from LAPD - The City of Los Angeles is the birthplace of the most notorious and violent street gangs in America. We have exported this brand of urban terrorism throughout the world and become infamous for our contribution to humanity's collective misery. Now is the time to change that image. Just as we became known as the origin of the problem, it is now time that we are recognized as the source of the solution. In order to create this solution, the Los Angeles Police Department must do two things better than ever before: First, we have to restructure our organization so it can more effectively focus resources on the problem, and we must continue to include our federal and local law enforcements partners in the process. Second, we have to embrace the total solution to gang violence and recognize that just as law enforcement did not create the problem, we cannot view ourselves as the sole solution.
from LAPD - The purpose of this notification is to alert the public of the latest widespread computer on-line scam circulating throughout the city: Individuals are searching computer websites, particularly “Craig's List”, seeking employment. Once the unsuspecting individual submits their resume` to what appears to be a legitimate company, they receive a congratulation notification which purports to hire them immediately. Later, they receive an official package through the U.S. Mail or other private express shipping companies containing printed counterfeit checks, money orders, or cashier's checks saying that the enclosed monies is payment for services paid up front.
by Gary Baratta - How do signs shape your environment? The Los Angeles Department of City Planning is proposing revisions to the citywide sign ordinance. City staff will present the proposed ordinance at a public hearing. The proposed revisions include: prohibiting digital signs citywide, restricting the size, height and number of signs and tightening the criteria for establishing Sign Districts. A temporary moratorium on new billboards, digital billboards, and supergraphics is currently in effect. In order to keep neighborhoods protected from these intensive sign types, city staff have been working to develop permanent regulations that the City Council can adopt before the moratorium expires on March 26, 2009. See how to add your comments inside ..
by Brian Humphrey, LAFD Spokesman - We have great things planned for 2009. Please accept our thanks for your continued interest and support of the LAFD mission, and best wishes for the year ahead. Between the fun of celebrating new fire stations and the immense reward of helping neighbors in need, we trust you'll make good on your new year's resolution by spending more time alongside the men and women of your LA Fire Department. Plan on joining us for these special LAFD events and programs... Please join members of the Los Angeles Fire Department and their families for an ice cream social .. to benefit the Fire Family Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization providing financial assistance to firefighters, their families and charities that support the fire service *throughout California* ... more info on upcoming events inside ...
by the Office of the Mayor - January 28, 2009 - The Office of Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa has assembled a helpful list of resources that can be used by families or individuals who find themselves in difficult situations. They include resouces for homelessness and mental health, the LA Forclusure Response Network (the participating centers are located in or near those communities that have been hardest hit by the on-going foreclosure crisis), a list of WorkSource Centers across the City of Los Angeles and information about how to deal with unfair evictions and discrimination. Take advantage of these programs, available in Los Angeles ..
by Christine Todd Whitman - OPINION - EDITOR'S NOTE: This first appeared in the LA Times. The city of LA has been rolling over to the burglar alarm crowd for years, footing the bill to send police out to check on ringing alarms in homes and businesses, alarms that turn out to be false 90 percent of the time. Nine-oh percent. To everyone who gripes about police response time, listen up -- patrol officers spend about 15% of their time answering these non-emergencies. Time is big money. Between 2004 and 2008, that cost the city almost $27 million. That's all of us, footing the bill for private security alarms that one way or another get their wires crossed.
an LA Times EDITORIAL - If the department is to expand amid a recession, greater oversight is required to ensure efficiency. The Los Angeles Police Department is one of about 40 departments in city government, but it's the largest, and it has never been shy about throwing its weight around at budget time. The LAPD routinely demands more -- more money for officers, more for recruiting, more for equipment, more for technology. Chief William J. Bratton and other LAPD leaders press their advantage, emphasizing the decline in crime in Los Angeles without noting that crime is down nationwide, especially in big cities, and that it may have as much to do with shifting demographics and other unfathomable trends as with the quality of policing.
by Laura Chick, LA Contoller - $10 Million Spent Annually On Take-Home Cars; Calls For Cancellation Of Gas Credit Cards Calling it, “A stunning testament as to how the City does business in an un-businesslike way,” City Controller Laura Chick released two audits spotlighting many problems with the City’s lax management of fleet and take-home vehicles.“What is crystal clear is that no one is minding the store. First, we need to ask and answer why each and every take-home and pool-vehicle is needed. Secondly, we need to do a much better job in being vigilant to guarantee these cars are being used for the purposes they are intended,” said Chick.
Weekly Neighborhood Updates - from Eric Garcetti - President, LA City Council Here are some ideas and information about how to improve your life in Los Angeles .. and that of your community. These are provided compliments of Council District 13, Eric Garcetti's office, as Weekly Neighborhood Updates. Included this time: 1) All About Community Gardens 2) Hazardous Waste Disposal 3) LA Police Department Hollywood Blood Drive 4) CRA Request for Qualifications 5) X-mas Tree Disposal 6) Free Tax Services .. and more ..
by LAPD - Traffic Safety Tips Near Schools; Motorists Reminded Schools Are Back in Session January 07, 2009 - Los Angeles: Each year, many City of Los Angeles school children are severely injured while being picked up or dropped off at neighborhood schools. Motorists are reminded to drive more responsibly now that schools are back in session after holiday breaks. To reduce traffic collisions, Los Angeles Police Department traffic officers recommend the following tips to motorists: see the article .. NOTE: It is also important to understand a child's limited understanding of traffic laws and to recognize they are children making serious decisions. In general, children do not easily judge a car's speed or distance and often assume that if they can see an approaching car, the driver must also be able to see them.
With 2009 right around the corner, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) reminds motorists of several new laws that will ring in the New Year. Among the new laws is AB 2241, limits the issuance of temporary operating permits to those individuals whose vehicles have yet to pass a smog check. The law calls for a $50 fee for one 60-day temporary operating permit only if the vehicle has been tested at a smog station and failed.“This new law ensures that vehicles on our highways are properly registered and maintained,” said DMV Director George Valverde. “We also support efforts to reduce emissions which keep Californians healthy.”
FREE TRAINS - Metro will offer free rides on its buses and trains on New Year's Eve between the hours of 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. Metro will also offer 24-hour service on all routes on New Year's Eve, with trains running every 20 minutes from 9 p.m. Dec. 31 to 5 a.m. Jan. 1. In addition, it will increase service to Pasadena for the Rose Parade with trains running every 7 or 8 minutes beginning at 5 a.m. For more information, visit www.metro.net or call 1-800-COMMUTE. 
Cargo planes
the most reprinted newspaper editorial
LACP and "Community Matters"
Dr. Earl Bradley
body armor illegal for violent felons 
DNA strands
California's new
