Icicle Creek Chamber Music Festival - Final Weekend

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Leavenworth, WA -   The Icicle Creek Center for the Arts (ICCA,) ICCA, an independent, non-profit organization, presents the Final Weekend of its Creek Chamber Music Festival.

JULY 18, 8PM

Concert Sponsor - Mark Jennings

"From the Earth to the Ether"  featuring Chistina Dahl, piano; Alexandria Le, piano; Elisabeth Perry, violin; Richard Wolfe, viola; the Volta Piano Trio. Program including:

Handel-Halvorsen, Passacaglia for Violin and Viola

Walton, Sonata for Violin and Piano

Shostakovich, Piano Trio in E Minor, Op. 67

Ravel, Ma mère l'oye for Piano Four Hands

JULY 19, 8PM

Concert Sponsors - Pat and Heather Murphy

"From the Profane to the Sacred"  with special guest emcee, Gillian Coldsnow from Northwest Public Radio. Featuring Christina Dahl and Oksana Ezhokina, piano; Elisabeth Perry, violin; Sally Singer Tuttle, cello; Richard Wolfe, viola.  Program including:

Stravinsky, Rite of Spring for Piano Four Hands

Brahms, Piano Quartet in A Major, Op. 26

Buy Tickets Now        

JULY 19, 1PM* - FREE Young Artist Concert

Concert Sponsors - Peter & Audi Reinthaler

Enjoy a lovely concert performed by the young artists of the Chamber Music Festival - FREE admission!              

ICCA Dream Team Reaches the finals - restructure supports momentum & diversified programming

Announced  restructure supports momentum & diversified programming such as on-going classical music series, theater, film, The Met: Live in HD opera series, continued festivals, educational programs and other community partner events.

Posted by CotoBlogzz


Leavenworth, WA   – there's a whole lot going on at Icicle Creek Center for the Arts (ICCA,) ICCA, an independent, non-profit organization, is supported by contributions and donations from individuals, corporations, foundations, and organizations. ) ICAA is a place where learning, creating, and performing inspire and nurture the human spirit in a spectacular mountain setting.

The ICCA Board of Directors formally approved the appointment of Rebecca Ryker as General Manager.  Ryker, is a well-known Executive in the Bellevue, WA area . Having directed the catering and food services department at the Harbor Club, she brings several years of management experience. She has directed youth camps and educational programs across the state and has won several accolades in sales. She comes with an educational background in the hospitality/business arena. Ryker was initially hired at ICCA to fill the Event Manager position but quickly moved into her new role as General Manager.

In its new structure,  ICCA announced two promotions: Lilia Grundy as Director of Marketing and Communications and Michael Caemmerer promoted to the newly created position of Director of Program Development. Both directors, along with Ryker will act and serve as the new ICAA executive team

Grundy continues to be an anchoring force and has led the rebranding efforts of the organization from its former name, Icicle Creek Music Center to the now ICCA. Grundy is a seasoned marketing professional with sixteen years of branding and business development experience among companies such as NBC Television, Telemundo Station Group and Kraft Foods.

Caemmerer joins ICCA after 15 years in New Delhi India where he served as head of Performing Arts, Theater Manager/Director and Director of the Visiting Artist series for the American Embassy School. He continues to direct theater productions, most recently working in Bloomington, Indiana as well as in Wenatchee with the Mission Creek Players. His work at ICCA will be focused on solidifying the strong base of current offerings as well as the development of new series and events.

Highlighting customer service as priority during strategic planning meetings, ICCA created a new Patron Services Coordinator position filled by Alex Weirich, a former ICCA intern and music major. Andrea Uchytil, a graduate from top-rated Washington State University’s hospitality program, was hired to serve as Event Manager. Lori Payne, experienced in accounting and finance, was recently hired to fill the Office Coordinator position.

In ICCA’s latest move to continue offering quality programming, filmmaker and writer Jamie Howell, founder/owner of Howell at the Moon Productions, has been contracted as the new Artistic Director for the nascent film program. He has also been hired to fill the Technical Services Director staff position by overseeing productions across the various performance facilities. He has been producing documentary films and commercial video productions since 1999. Pedal-Driven, his current bikeumentary, is currently airing nationally and internationally on the Universal Sports Network and was selected as a finalist in the Banff Mountain Film Festival film competition.

POISED FOR THE FUTURE
ICCA continues to build momentum as its programming has diversified over the last three years and now proudly features various performing arts series including the on-going classical music series, theater, film, The Met: Live in HD opera series, continued festivals, educational programs and other community partner events.

BRICS Development Bank Does Not Undermine US Dollar

By Chriss Street

As the three day meeting for the 6^th annual “BRICS” conference of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa comes to a close, the most important accomplishment is the founding of the BRICS Development Bank and a currency stabilization pool known as the Contingency Reserve Arrangement.  At a puny $50 billion the BRICS Development Bank does not undermine the U.S. dollar as the world’s reserve currency.  But it does recognize that most of the world’s coming growth will be from emerging economies and seeks to undermine political meddling by Western nations in investment decisions regarding that growth.

McKinsey and Company consultants estimate that from a 2010 base of 6.8 billion people in the world and about 2.4 billion people with enough disposable income to be consumers, by 2025 there will be 7.9 billion people and 4.2 billion consumers.   About 56% of the world’s GDP comes from 600 cities and the top 160 developed cities control 2/3.  But as urbanization creates another billion consumers by 2025, the emerging 440 cities will control twice the GDP of the developed cities.  About $23 trillion, or 47%, of the world’s consumer growth will come from these emerging cities as one billion of their residents gain enough disposable income to meet McKinsey’s definition of a consumer.

The BRICS believe that the world’s international financial institutions are all Western dominated and the West has increasingly used their control over investment decisions to undermine emerging nations’ sovereignty.  A few of the more egregious actions against BRICS include sanctions against Russia, steel import restrictions against China and travel restrictions against India’s new Prime Minister.      

The he World Bank started out as a development bank designed to help rebuild Europe after World War II, before growing into the global institution it is today.  The BRIC Development Bank will start out at $50 billion of initial capitalization in 2016 and is proposed to grow to $100 billion by 2021.  But this would still be fairly small institution.  But if the dozens of other potentially fast growing countries like Vietnam where I am teaching “Capitalist Business Strategy” to 50 young and very ambitious entrepreneurs were to join both new BRICS’ institutions relative quickly, the BDB and CRA could become powerhouses. 

More importantly to the developing world, building non-Western lending mechanisms would eliminate the self-serving political and business conditions that are regularly imposed on emerging nations by Western institutions.  It would also represent an effort to insulate the developing world from continuing financial crisis in the debt-laden Western economies.  The BRICS have suffered short-term capital flight as investors responded to U.S. Federal Reserve and European Central Bank stimulus, quantitative easing and tapering announcements.  Developing country governments that traditionally held assets in Western financial markets fear being the victim of Western liquidity crisis.

The BDB will also promote infrastructure and sustainable development in emerging countries via loans.  Some estimates suggest the developing world lacks about $1 trillion annually in financing for economically justified infrastructure.  With many traditional Western donors and investors into other development banks now experiencing debt crises at home, the emerging world is being squeezed out. 

The BRICS Development Bank initially will be relatively small for a multilateral development bank. Even though China can anchor the BDB with its economy and financial power that dwarf the other BRICS members, the Contingency Reserve Arrangement’s $50 or $100 billion capitalization would be quickly exhausted in a global financial crisis.  The BRICS would still have to rely on the existing financial institution’s capitalizations: European Investment Bank at $331 billion; World Bank at $223 billion; Asian Development Bank at $163; Inter-American Development Bank at $129; and African Development Bank at 103 billion. 

China wanted the initial contributions to be based on each country's size and offered to put up all of an initial start-up capitalization for both the BRICS Development Bank and Contingency Reserve Arrangement to be $100 billion, but the other BRICS members rejected the risk of moving from one master to another.  It was negotiated that the BDB will start lending in 2016 with an initial capital base of $50 billion.  Ten billion dollars will be contributed by each member, with plans to increase the capitalization to $100 billion over the next five years.  The $100 billion Contingency Reserve Arrangement will be based on the size of each country's economy, with China contributing $41 billion. 

The interests within the BRICS have often diverged and there is no discussion about moving to a common currency to challenge the dominance of the U.S. dollar.  It will also take decades to determine whether the BRICS Development Bank and Contingency Reserve Arrangement can rival Western-led institutions.  But with the emerging markets expected to dominate economic growth, the BRICS believe that should increasingly control their own investment decisions.

The author welcomes feedback and will respond to reader comments

From July 15^th to July 29^th, Chriss Street is teaching “Entrepreneurship and Capitalist Business Strategy” at Ho Chi Minh University in Vietnam

Update on the Israel-Hamas hostilities and proposed cease-fire.

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita. CA - As Israel entertains an Egypt proposal to end the hostilities between Israel and Hamas,  Israel is demanding guarantees of an extended period of quiet, while Hamas seeks an easing of an Israeli-Egyptian blockade on Hamas-controlled Gaza.

Meanwhile, over the weekend, Hamas rockets continued to rain down on Israel, threatening the lives of millions.
 
The victims of Hamas are not just Israelis. Since July 8, 38 rockets fired from Gaza have fallen within Gaza. Hamas fires from civilian areas...and hits its own people.

In addition to rockets landing in Gaza, Hamas has also launched rockets that have struck Palestinian communities in the West Bank.

According the the Israeli Consulate in New York, yesterday, a Hamas rocket struck an Israeli power station, knocking out electricity to 70,000 residents in Gaza.  And despite  the barrage of rockets from Hamas, 69 truckloads containing a variety of goods and 111 tons of gas were delivered into the Gaza Strip yesterday.

And just this morning, 117 trucks entered Gaza from Israel, including 17 addition trucks full of medical supplies.

Citigroup settles with US for $7 billion for its involvement scheme to sell fraudulent securities t

Citigroup settles with US for $7 billion for its involvement

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA - earlier today, Attorney General Eric Holder announced what he described as " . a landmark civil resolution with Citigroup totaling $7 billion in fines and consumer relief to address the bank’s involvement in a scheme to sell fraudulent securities that were backed by toxic loans.  This total includes a civil penalty of $4 billion, the largest penalty to date of its kind."

Among the Department of Justice complaints include that:
despite the fact that Citigroup learned of serious and widespread defects among the increasingly risky loans they were securitizing, the bank and its employees concealed these defects.

It misrepresented the facts, including the level of risk.

It sold defective loans to countless investors, including federally-insured financial institutions.  And they made false statements to investors, in marketing materials, and even in documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

It led investors and the public to believe that these financial products had been originated in compliance with the law and key underwriting guidelines when this was often not the case.

Under the terms of the announced settlement, the bank has admitted to its misdeeds in great detail.

Importantly, this agreement does not in any way absolve Citigroup or its individual employees from facing any possible criminal charges in the future.

Eric Holder stated that  " taken together, we believe the size and scope of this resolution goes beyond what could be considered the mere cost of doing business"

Unless certain Citigroup individual bank executives spend the rest of their lives in jail, something that is unlikely to happen, we are sure this agreement IS in fact just another example of the cost of doing business.

DOJ's Update on Gameover Zeus and Cryptolocker Malware Disruption

DOJ's Update on Gameover Zeus and Cryptolocker Makware Disruption

Posted By CotoBlogzz

Ranch Santa Margarita, CA -  The Justice Department yesterday filed a status report with the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania updating the court on the progress in disrupting the Gameover Zeus botnet and the malicious software known as Cryptolocker.

CryptoLocker is a ransomware program that was released around the beginning of September 2013 that targets all versions of Windows including Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Windows 8. This ransomware will encrypt certain files using a mixture of RSA & AES encryption. When it has finished encrypting target files, it will display a CryptoLocker payment program that prompts the target  to send a ransom usually of $100 or $300 in order to decrypt the files. The screen will also display a timer stating that the target had 72 hours, or 4 days, to pay the ransom or it will delete the target's encryption key and the victim will not have any way to decrypt the victim's files. This ransom must be paid using MoneyPak vouchers or Bitcoins. Once the victim sends the payment and it is verified, the program will decrypt the files that it encrypted.

The disruption began in late May, when the Justice Department implemented a series of Court-authorized measures to neutralize Gameover Zeus and Cryptolocker

Gameover Zeus is a sophisticated piece of malware (malicious software) which can take over your PC without your knowledge, giving those in control of it access to everything you do, as well as giving them the ability to record your keystrokes, video what you do on screen and even turn on your webcam.

Gameover is used by the criminal gang operating it to seek out and identify financial information stored on the victim's computer as well as capturing any credentials entered into online banking or shopping sites. Once they have this information, they use it to re-direct bank transfers into their own accounts.

In the status report, the Justice Department informed the Court that the technical and legal measures undertaken to disrupt Gameover Zeus and Cryptolocker have proven successful, and that significant progress has been made in remediating computers infected with Gameover Zeus.

The Justice Department reported that all or nearly all of the active computers infected with Gameover Zeus have been liberated from the criminals’ control and are now communicating exclusively with the substitute server established pursuant to court order.   The Justice Department also reported that traffic data from the substitute server shows that remediation efforts by internet service providers and victims have reduced the number of computers infected with Gameover Zeus by 31% since the disruption commenced.

The Justice Department also reported that Cryptolocker has been neutralized by the disruption and cannot communicate with the infrastructure used to control the malicious software.   As a result, Cryptolocker is effectively non-functional and unable to encrypt newly infected computers.

Computer users who believe they may be infected with Gameover Zeus are encouraged to visit the Department of Homeland Security’s dedicated Gameover Zeus webpage, which is located at www.us-cert.gov/gameoverzeus .   Among other resources, the webpage includes links to tools from trusted vendors that can detect and remove the Gameover Zeus infection.

Germany-Brazil Game. Not psychology 101: Law of Attribution

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA.in a RSA post (http://comment.rsablogs.org.uk/2014/07/10/brazil-neymar-shaped-shadow/) titled The power of positive thinking – and the destructive impact of negativity – was demonstrated by Brazil’s humiliation at the World Cup. Peter Sear FRSA explores the psychology of the host nation’s team psychologist Peter Sears blames the outcome on the power of negativity.

I disagree.  Below is my response posted BEFORE the Brazil-Netherlands game:  

The Law of Attribution says that putting the blame on the type of thinking, positive or negative, for the results of the Germany- Brazil game may be an indication of the poor state of psychology, a superficial analysis, a gross underestimation of the German's team potential, a gross underestimation of the talent -including its coach, of the Brazil team, or a combination thereof.

Positive thinking has been around professional sports for decades. Brazil brought in a psychologist precisely to overcome the loss of Neymar. Surely the psychologist would know about the power of positive thinking, prior to the game. The implications of blaming the outcome on negative thinking after this, is an indictment of Brazil's psychologist and makes the Brazil team look even more impotent.

There are other indicators that point the Brazil team being an overachiever with Neymar, and a mediocre one without him. Not to mention the tactical and strategic approach to the game.

Not too many people would argue against the use of positive thinking. Disregarding other factors in this case is a disservice to psychology, however.

The power of negativity blamed for Brazil's embarrassing performance in 2014 World Cup Semifinals

The power of negativity blamed for  Brazil's embarrassing performance in 2014 World Cup Semifinals

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA -  Peter Sear BSc Psychology and  Member of the British Psychological Society attributes Brazil's embarrassing performance in the 2014 World Cup Semifinals to the power of negative thinking and not necessarily to lack of talent, tactical or strategical failure.

Brazil had everything going for it.  It was the host country and it had one of the best players in the world in Neymar, then tragedy struck: Neymar was sidelined with injuries.

Brazil’s players entered the stadium on Tuesday, with each member of the squad wearing a Neymar cap. Sears argues that  the "presence of the caps rang alarm bells; bells that grew louder when the team stood on the pitch, all lined up to sing their passionate anthem, clutching onto the star players’ empty shirt. A Neymar shaped shadow dominated the team’s psyche....... Neymar’s empty shirt reminded the fans – the whole stadium – that success, in this vital semi-final, on home soil, was less likely. That the 11 players fighting to win were not as good as they could have been"

Arguably, Brazil's performance was embarrassing.  It is also intriguing that to overcome Neymar's absence, Brazil's coach brought in a psychologist to help the team prior to the game.

Using the Law of Attribution, should Brazil psychologist be to blame for the outcome?  Is Sears' argument merely a case of Monday Morning Quarterbacking!?  Or is it simply that psychology is irrelevant when everything is on the line?

Things are looking up in Laguna Woods Village

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Laguna Woods Village, CA - with Shari Horne joining the city council;  Lucy Shimon and Stan Feldstein joining The Golden Rain Foundation (GRF) there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel, and it does not seem to be a train, or as Paul Loughrey might say:

Friends  and Neighbors,

Congratulations and good luck to Shari Horne our newly appointed LW City Councilor and to Stanley Feldstein and Lucy Shimon who were elected to the GRF board replacing Larry Souza and Heather Gerson.  Stanley (2007-2010) and Lucy (2009-2012) served honorably and ably on the Third Mutual Board.

Good luck to all of the above.  The future of our community looks brighter this morning.

Paul Loughrey

Aliso Viejo Death of Brigitte Shaw Investigated as Murder-Suicide

Aliso Viejo Death of Brigitte Shaw Investigated as Murder-Suicide

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA  - On Monday, July 7, 2014, Orange County Sheriff’s investigators were notified by San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department investigators following discovery of Brigitte Julie Shaw, 49, Aliso Viejo, deceased inside her residence.

Shaw was discovered during execution of a search warrant at 23411 Summerfield, Aliso Viejo (St. Moritz Apartments).  Orange County Sheriff’s homicide investigators with San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department investigators determined there may be a connection between Shaw’s death and a death investigation in their jurisdiction.

On Sunday, July 6, 2014, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s investigators initiated a death investigation in an unincorporated area near Hesperia.  Philip Alexander Smyth, 50, Aliso Viejo, was discovered deceased as a result of self-inflicted stab wounds.  Smyth’s death has been determined by the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner to have been a suicide.

On Monday, July 7, 2014, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Investigators identified the residence at the St. Moritz Apartments as possibly being related to Smyth.  Investigators executed a search warrant at the Summerfield address and discovered Shaw deceased inside the residence.  It is believed Shaw had been deceased for several days; the manner and cause of death is pending toxicology results.

Based on the preliminary investigation and information collected at both scenes, it appears Smyth and Shaw had a boyfriend-girlfriend relationship and resided at the Summerfield address.  Evidence gathered from Orange and San Bernardino County has given investigators reason to believe the deaths are a result of murder-suicide with Smyth being the suspect.

Anyone with additional information is asked to call the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Unit at (714) 647-7055.  Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS (855-847-6227) or at occrimestoppers.o

Update on Israel's Operation Protective Edge

Update on Israel's Operation Protective Edge

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA - The objective of Operation Protective Edge is to end the rocket fire, restore security to Israeli civilians whose daily lives have been harshly interrupted and restore deterrence.  During Operation Protective Edge, evidence of Hamas and other terror organizations use of human shields has surfaced.


Since the start of Operation Protective Edge, 300 rockets have been fired at Israel by terrorist group Hamas. Of those, 220 struck Israel. Just today alone (as of 6PM Israel time), 72 rockets hit Israel, according to Israeli Consulate in New York

These deadly weapons are threatening the lives of over 3 million Israelis who are in range of Hamas' attacks, from Sderot and the south all the way up to major population centers including Tel Aviv and our capital city, Jerusalem.

Hamas' assault on Israel has not only come by rockets, but also by land and sea. Palestinian commandos attempting to carry out a terrorist attack near Israeli beaches on the Mediterranean were neutralized by the IDF. By land, a terror tunnel from Gaza into Israel was discovered and destroyed.

Israeli families have been forced into shelters, their kids kept from their summer camps, and schools closed. While Hamas escalates attacks on Israel, all normal activities have been harshly interrupted. Israel called on Hamas repeatedly to stop its war crime tactics and they answered with more attacks. This is unacceptable. Attacks on Israeli towns and civilians continue as you read this message.

Hamas places weapons and missile launchers in densely populated areas. They also send men, woman and children to act as human shields for terrorists.
Innocent bystanders can be killed as a result of Hamas' abuse of its own civilians. Instead of keeping its citizens out of harm's way, Hamas encourages and even forces Gazans to join its violent resistance against Israel.

According to the Israeli Consulate,  the operation will continue until the firing at our communities stops and quiet is restored. All options are on the table.

DOJ. HHS Call for Action to Address Elder Abuse

Elder Justice Roadmap Outlines Critical Path to Combating Elder Abuse - Not Most Effective Use of Taxpayer Money

Posted by CotoBlogzz


Rancho Santa Margarita, CA –Today, the Justice Department and Health and Human Services announced a framework for tackling the highest priority challenges to elder abuse prevention and prosecution, and called on all Americans to take a stand against the serious societal problem of elder abuse, neglect and financial exploitation.

Research suggests that one in 10 Americans over the age of 60 has experienced elder abuse or neglect, and that people with dementia are at higher risk for abuse.

The Elder Justice Roadmap, which is being published today, reflects the knowledge and perspectives of experts in the field and will be considered by the Elder Justice Coordinating Council and others in developing their own strategic plans to prevent and combat elder abuse. While the intent is good, the Roadmap is a gigantic waste if taxpayer money, mostly because of the glaring lack of accountability

To support the mission of elder abuse prevention and prosecution, DOJ has developed an interactive, online curriculum to teach legal aid and other civil attorneys to identify and respond to elder abuse.  The first three modules of the training cover what lawyers should know about elder abuse; practical and ethical strategies to use when facing challenges in this area; and a primer on domestic violence and sexual assault.  This training will expand to include six one-hour modules covering issues relevant to attorneys who may encounter elder abuse victims in the course of their practice.

HHS is supporting the mission by developing a voluntary national adult protective services (APS) data system.  Collecting national data on adult mistreatment will help to identify and address many gaps about the number and characteristics of adults who are the victims of maltreatment and the nature of services that are provided by APS agencies to protect these vulnerable adults.  In addition, the data will better inform the development of improved, more targeted policy and programmatic interventions.

In addition to informing federal elder justice efforts, the roadmap has already inspired private stakeholders to take action.  For example, as a result of the roadmap, the Archstone Foundation has funded a project at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California to develop a national training initiative, while other funders, such as the Weinberg Foundation, have begun to consider inquiries and projects outlined in the roadmap.  Likewise, the Brookdale Center for Healthy Aging at Hunter College, The Harry and Jeannette Weinberg Center for Elder Abuse Prevention at the Hebrew Home at Riverdale and the New York City Elder Abuse Center will be co-sponsoring a symposium in September 2014 focusing on innovations and challenges related to elder abuse multidisciplinary teams, a priority area identified in the roadmap.

“While federal and state governments certainly have critical roles to play, the battle against elder abuse can only be won with grassroots action at the community and individual level,” said Greenlee.  “Turning the tide against elder abuse requires much greater public commitment, so every American will recognize elder abuse when they see it and know what to do if they encounter it.”

Two steps local communities, families and individuals can take are:

• Learn the signs of elder abuse.  The National Center on Elder Abuse, a program of the Administration on Aging at ACL, has developed a helpful Red Flags of Abuse Factsheet (PDF) that lists the signs of and risk factors for abuse and neglect.

• Report suspected abuse when you see it.  Contact your local adult protective services agency.  Phone numbers for state or local offices can be found at the National Center for Elder Abuse website, or call 1-800-677-1116.

“We must take a stand to ensure that older Americans are safe from harm and neglect,” said Associate Attorney General West.  “For their contributions to our nation, to our society, and to our lives, we owe them nothing less.”

The Elder Justice Roadmap and accompanying materials are at: http://ncea.acl.gov/Library/Gov_Report/index.aspx.

Free online training for attorneys is at: https://www.ovcttac.gov/views/dspLegalAssistance.cfm?tab=1#onlinetraining.

San Jose Medical Device Inventor Ashvin Desai Sentenced to Prison for Tax Fraud.

San Jose Medical Device Inventor Ashvin Desai Sentenced to Prison for Tax Fraud.

California Man Hid Millions in Bank Accounts in India and Dubai

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA -  Medical Device Inventor Ashvin Desai, of San Jose, California, was sentenced yesterday to serve six months in prison and six months and one day of home confinement for concealing more than $8 million in foreign bank accounts, according to joint announcement by the Justice Department and Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

In October 2013, a jury convicted Desai, a medical device manufacturer, of failing to report his family’s foreign bank accounts to the government on tax returns and Reports of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR).

The jury also found that Desai failed to disclose more than $1.2 million in interest income generated by these accounts between 2007 and 2009.  Desai was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Edward J. Davila.

According to the evidence presented in court, Desai controlled several foreign bank accounts at HSBC in India and Dubai, including accounts held in the name of his wife and adult children.  Desai invested the funds in these accounts in certificates of deposit, which earned interest at rates as high as nine percent.  Desai funded these accounts by mailing checks from the United States and by transferring money from other undeclared bank accounts in Singapore and the United Kingdom to his family’s accounts in India.  Desai also sold medical devices abroad, and, on at least one occasion, directed that his customer wire funds directly to his undeclared HSBC India account.

Between 2007 and 2009, Desai paid approximately $17,000 in taxes.  However, Desai owed an additional $357,783 in taxes to the IRS on his unreported interest income.  Desai’s deposits into his foreign accounts also far exceeded the income he disclosed on his tax returns each year.  In 2008, for example, he deposited nearly $1.1 million into foreign accounts while only reporting income of $115,810.91 on his tax return.

In addition to failing to report his accounts on tax returns and FBARs, Desai also directed the bank not to mail bank statements to his house.  On one occasion, Desai wrote an email in which he asked an HSBC banker: “Why are all the statements coming to Home address?  I thought we had a different arrangement.”

This case was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by Trial Attorney Melissa Siskind of the Tax Division.

OCSD Needs public's assistance in investigation of death of female in Aliso Viejo

Posted by CotoBlogzz


Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif. –  On Monday, July 7, 2014, Orange County Sheriff’s investigators were called to the 23400 block of Summerfield, Aliso Viejo (St. Moritz Apartment Complex) following discovery of a deceased female inside an apartment.  The deceased female was located during execution of a search warrant by San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department as a result of an ongoing investigation.

At approximately 6:00 pm,, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s investigators contacted Orange County Sheriff’s Department investigators and notified them of their discovery.  Based on the preliminary evidence and information located at the scene, investigators have not been able to determine a manner or cause of death.

An autopsy of the body is scheduled for today, Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at 9:30 a.m.  The identity of the deceased is pending official confirmation and next of kin notification.

Anyone with additional information is asked to call the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Unit at (714) 647-7055.  Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS (855-847-6227) or a

Saddleback College’s announces first free outdoor musical theatre event.

A New Family Summer Tradition Begins at Saddleback College with Godspell



Posted By CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita,  CA – The Department of Theatre Arts is thrilled to present a free musical under the stars at Saddleback College. Directed by Scott Farthing, choreography by Deidre Cavazzi and Musical Direction by Lex Leigh, the whole family is in for a treat with this interactive theatre experience on the lawn of Saddleback’s upper campus quad. Purchase great food from a variety of food trucks or bring a picnic then, sit back with friends and family and enjoy Saddleback College’s first free outdoor musical theatre event.

The Gospel According to St. Matthew is presented in a series of skits and songs with Jesus and his disciples presented in this family-fun musical featuring songs by Stephen Schwartz. Godspell is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

Dates are August 1st and 2nd. Festival seating starts at 6:00 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Bring blankets to sit on and low back chairs if desired. Glass bottles and alcohol will not be permitted. For further information, call the box office at 949-582-4656 (noon to 4 pm, Wed-Sat).

Saddleback College is located at 28000 Marguerite Pkwy in Mission Viejo.  Saddleback College is located at 28000 Marguerite Pkwy in Mission Viejo.  Enter the campus at the College Drive Entrance (nearest Mission Hospital) off Marguerite Parkway.  After entering the campus, turn right on College Drive West and park in Lot 9 on your immediate left. A free tram will also be available near the handicapped parking area in Lot 9.

Located in Mission Viejo, Saddleback College provides quality higher education and training to the greater south Orange County community.  Having served more than 500,000 students since 1968, Saddleback College offers over 300 degree and certificate programs to help students reach their personal, career, and educational goals.  For more information, please visit www.saddleback.edu and for Fine Arts information, please visit www.saddleback.edu/arts.

Vahe Tahmasian, of Glendale, was sentenced to 121 months for $1.5 million Medicare fraud scheme

Southern California Man Sentenced to 121 Months in Prison for Medicare Fraud and Identity Theft

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA - Vahe Tahmasian, 36, of Glendale, California, who was found guilty by a federal jury on March 21, 2014, for his role in a $1.5 million Medicare fraud and identity theft scheme, was sentenced to serve 121 months in prison today in federal court in Los Angeles.

In addition to his prison term of 121 months, he was sentenced to serve three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $994,036 in restitution to the Medicare program. Attorneys for the Justice Department made the announcement

Vahe Tahmasian, 36, of Glendale, California, was found guilty by a federal jury on March 21, 2014, for his role in a $1.5 million Medicare fraud and identity theft scheme.   In addition to his prison term of 121 months, he was sentenced to serve three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $994,036 in restitution to the Medicare program.

Between April 2009 and February 2011, Tahmasian operated a Medicare fraud scheme at Orthomed Appliance Inc. (Orthomed), a DME supply company in West Hollywood, California.   Tahmasian and his co-conspirator, Eric Mkhitarian, purchased Orthomed from the previous owners and put the company in the name of a “straw” owner.   The defendant and his co-conspirator then stole the personal identifying information of Medicare beneficiaries and doctors in the company’s patient files, and used that information to submit a large volume of fraudulent claims to Medicare.  

During a three-month period in late 2010, Tahmasian submitted more than $1.2 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare for services that were never prescribed by a physician and never provided to the Medicare beneficiaries.   Tahmasian and his co-conspirator then took out more than $622,000 in cash from the company over a six-week period in early 2011.   Tahmasian used a fake California driver’s license to further the fraud scheme.   Tahmasian submitted a total of $1,584,640 in claims to Medicare and received approximately $994,036 on those claims.

The case was investigated by the FBI and the Los Angeles Region of HHS-OIG.   The case was prosecuted by Assistant Chief Benton Curtis and Trial Attorney Alexander Porter of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.



To learn more about the Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Action Team (HEAT), go to: www.stopmedicarefraud.gov .

Wilkinson and Frisch, Two insurance agents to be arraigned for fraud and falsifying life insurance policies

posted by CotoBlogzz

OCDA seeking potential additional victims

 
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA-   Tyler wilkinson and Ian Frisch, two insurance agents and three others will be arraigned today on charges of falsifying life insurance policies and defrauding $600,000 from insurance companies.

According to the Orange County District Attorney's (OCDA) office, Tyler Wilkinson, 37, San Diego, and Ian Frisch, 31, Bonita, are charged with four felony counts of grand theft with sentencing enhancement allegations for causing over $100,000 in loss, aggravated white collar crime over $500,000, and property loss over $200,000.

Reuben Banuelos, 63, Aliso Viejo, Edward Putnam, 71, and wife Maxine Putnam, 68, San Juan Capistrano, are charged with one felony count of grand theft with sentencing enhancement allegations for causing over $100,000 in loss, property loss over $200,000.

At the time of the crime, Edward Putnam was an inactive member of the California State Bar and a licensed veterinarian who ran a clinic, Maxine Putnam was a licensed realtor, Wilkinson was an inactive member of the California State Bar and a licensed independent insurance agent, and Frisch was a licensed insurance agent working for an insurance carrier.

Between Aug. 2, 2010, and Nov. 15, 2010, Wilkinson and Frisch are accused of submitting falsified insurance policy applications on behalf of Banuelos and the Putnams, who are accused of knowingly making false statements on the application. Wilkinson and Frisch are accused of offering the other three defendants free insurance with no out-of-pocket loss by having them pay a first-time premium and getting reimbursed for the total amount paid for a full year of coverage. Banuelos and the Putnams are accused of not declaring in the applications that they were reimbursed for the premium and letting the life insurance policy lapse after one year and not making further payments. Wilkinson and Frisch are accused of profiting from the policies by collecting commissions over $600,000.

On June 6, 2014, after a lengthy investigation by the California Department of Insurance, the five defendants were arrested.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with additional information or who believes they have been a victim is encouraged to contact Supervising District Attorney Investigator Andy Terhorst at (714) 347-8691.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Marc Labreche of the Major Fraud Unit is prosecuting this case.

Wayne Fong, disbarred attorney and former NYPD officer, convicted of embezzling over $469K

Wayne Fong, disbarred attorney and former NYPD officer, convicted of embezzling over $469K

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA- Wayne Martin Fong, a former vice president of a title insurance company pleaded guilty today to stealing over $469,000 from his company to spend on gambling

Wayne Martin Fong, 51, Tustin, pleaded guilty to a court offer of  seven felony counts of grand theft, five felony counts of money laundering, sentencing enhancements and allegations for causing over $100,000 in loss, aggravated white collar crime over $100,000, property loss over $200,000, and transactions exceeding $50,000.

Fong was sentenced by judge Robert R. Fitzgerald to ONLY six months in jail, five years formal probation, and must pay $309,000 in restitution.

According to the Orange County District Attorney's (OCDA) office, Fong was hired in 1999 by Fidelity National Title Group (Fidelity) as the Associate Counsel and Vice President. He was responsible for working with and overseeing contracts with vendors who searched for and obtained missing assets for the company.

Fong signed a service agreement on behalf of Fidelity with a vendor, Global Discoveries (Global), in March 2009. In July 2009, Fong contacted Global, requesting by email to have all payments sent to a different account, and providing them with a different email address, phone number, and mailing address. The defendant embezzled over $469,000 by having payments intended for Fidelity deposited into his own personal account and using the stolen money for gambling.

One of Fidelity's vendors became suspicious about the change in email address, bank account number, and mailing address provided to them by Fong. The case was reported to the Irvine Police Department (IPD), who investigated this case. On Nov. 29, 2012, IPD arrested Fong. At the time of the crime, Fong was a licensed attorney but was disbarred on Jan. 27, 2012. Prior to becoming an attorney, the defendant was also a former New York Police Department officer.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Marc Labreche of the Major Fraud Unit prosecuted this case.

Duy Nguyen, Garden Grove man to be arraigned for fraudulent loan modification scheme.

Duy Nguyen, Garden Grove man to be arraigned for fraudulent loan modification scheme.

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA - Duy Nguyen, man is scheduled to be arraigned today for defrauding 42 victims of over $92,000 by operating a fraudulent loan modification company, according to the Orange County District Attorney's (OCDA) office.

Duy Khac Nguyen, 34, Garden Grove, is charged with 37 felony counts of grand theft, five felony counts of theft from elder, with a sentencing enhancement for property loss over $65,000.  He is being held on $90,000 and must prove the money is from a legal and legitimate source before posting bond. Nguyen is scheduled to be arraigned this morning.

Between February and July 2010, Nguyen is accused of owning and operating a fraudulent loan modification company called HAMP Resources in Garden Grove. He is accused of falsely claiming to be affiliated with the federal government's Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) and obtaining a business license from the City of Garden Grove. The defendant's business and the federal government's HAMP are not affiliated in any way.

Nguyen is accused of promising loan modifications to victims and guaranteeing a refund of their money if they were not eligible. He is accused of advertising the business through local television advertisements in Hawaii and in various states through mail flyers and his website.

Nguyen is accused of collecting over $92,000 from 42 victims, who deposited checks to a HAMP Resources business account.  He is accused of failing to provide any loan modification services or refunds for the victims. Nguyen is accused of withdrawing the money from the company bank account and depositing it in his personal accounts. He is accused of closing the Garden Grove business, shutting down the website, and moving out of Orange County.

In April 2010, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) received complaints from victims addressed to Nguyen that had been mailed to his former Garden Grove office.

USPIS and the Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program investigated this case. On June 12, 2014, Nguyen was arrested in Garden Grove by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department with assistance from the Garden Grove Police Department.

The Orange County District Attorney's Office, SIGTARP, and USPIS believes there may be additional victims in this case. Anyone with additional information or who believes they have been a victim is encouraged to call Supervising District Attorney Investigator Andy Terhorst at (714) 347-8691.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Pete Pierce of the Major Fraud Unit is prosecuting this case.

DOJ sues Los Angeles Pharma Co. Laclede and it's president Michael Pellico.

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA:  The Department of Justice (DOJ) today announced the filing of a civil lawsuit against Laclede Inc. and its president, Michael A. Pellico, seeking to stop the distribution of over-the-counter vaginal drug products that the company makes and sells nationwide.

The lawsuit, filed on June 25, 2014, in the United States District Court for the Central District of California, seeks a permanent injunction against the defendants for the sale and distribution of four drugs: Luvena Prebiotic Vaginal Moisturizer and Lubricant; Luvena Prebiotic Enhanced Personal Lubricant; Luvena Prebiotic Feminine Wipes; and Luvena Prebiotic Daily Therapeutic Wash (Luvena Products).

According to the allegations in the complaint, the sale and distribution of the Luvena Products, which are manufactured by the company in its Rancho Dominguez, California, facility, violate various provisions of the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

According to the complaint, since 2010, Laclede has sold one or more of the Luvena Products without the required FDA approval.   Furthermore, the complaint charges that the company has made unapproved claims that the products treat or prevent vaginal infections, including claims that have appeared on the company’s web sites, Facebook page, and Twitter feed.

The lawsuit was filed by the Justice Department Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch, in Washington, D.C., and is being handled by David A. Frank.  

Shaun Paquette Identified as Suspect in Ladera Ranch Deputy-Involved Shooting

Posted by CotoBlogzz


LADERA RANCH, Calif. – On Sunday, June 29, 2014 at approximately 10:26 p.m., Orange County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the 100 block of Sansovino, Ladera Ranch regarding a domestic disturbance call.  Deputies arrived and encountered Shaun Bradley Paquette, 29, Ladera Ranch, inside the residence, during which time a deputy-involved shooting occurred.

Paquette was transported to a local hospital by Orange County Fire Authority paramedics with non-life threatening injuries suffered as a result of the shooting.  The deputy was not injured during the incident.

Paquette was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon, battery against a spouse and child endangerment charges.  He was booked into Orange County Jail and is currently being held on $100K bail.

The Orange County District Attorney’s Office is conducting the shooting investigation as a standard protocol for all Orange County Sheriff’s deputy-involved shootings.

SCOTUS deals a significant blow to the progressive movement and far left attorneys general,

SCOTUS deals a significant blow to the progressive movement and far left attorneys general,

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA - Today, the Supreme Court of the United States  (SCOTUS) dealt a significant blow to the progressive movement and far left attorneys general, handing down decisions in two high-profile cases regarding birth control and labor unions.

In Burwell v. Hobby Lobby, the court ruled 5-4 that closely held corporations cannot be required to provide contraception coverage for their employees.

In Harris v. Quinn, the court ruled 5-4 to give certain workers the ability to opt out of paying dues to public-sector unions, delivering a setback to the organized labor movement.

In January 2014, Attorney General Harris was joined by 13 far left states and the District of Columbia to file a friend-of-the-court brief that urged the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn the decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit which held that for-profit businesses may exercise religion and therefore are covered by the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA) of 1993.

Today, far left  Attorney General Kamala D. Harris issued the following statement on the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Burwell v. Hobby Lobby:

“A woman’s access to quality, affordable preventive healthcare coverage should not depend on her employer’s beliefs. Every woman should be able to make healthcare decisions for herself and her family. I am deeply disappointed that the Court ruled to limit this important right.

The decision also opens a perilous loophole that may enable private, for-profit companies to challenge other common-sense laws—including those that protect against discrimination—based on the religious beliefs of their shareholders or managers.”

Last week SCOTUS ruled that president Obama had abused his power, essentially disconnecting his phone and throwing away the ink  cartridge in his pen.  Obama vowed to do whatever he thought was right, in spite of SCOTUS' decisions and or Congress.

Might this be an indicator that the far left movement has hit a brick wall?

Low-hanging Fruit Benghazi Attack Terrorist Makes First Court Appearance

Beghazi Attack Terrorist Makes  First Court Appearance

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA -  Ahmed Abu Khatallah, aka Ahmed Mukatallah, made his first appearance today in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia on a federal terrorism offense arising from his alleged participation in the Sept. 11 through 12, 2012, terrorist attacks in Benghazi, Libya, which resulted in the deaths of Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens, Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods and Glen Doherty.

Khatallah was indicted by a federal grand jury on the charge of conspiracy to provide material support and resources to terrorists, knowing and intending that these would be used in preparation for and in carrying out a killing in the course of an attack on a federal facility, and the offense resulted in death.

The investigation is ongoing and the Justice Department can bring additional charges as the case continues.

Various reports, including ones from Fox News claim that Khatallah is not only a low hanging fruit, but that other more important suspects have been identified, but the administration has failed to take action, for unknown issues.  Some speculate that bringing the more important terrorist may further embarrass the Obama administration, something the State Department spokesperson categorically denies.


Khatallah, a Libyan national approximately 43 years of age, was taken into custody earlier this month.  He initially was charged in a criminal complaint that was filed under seal on July 15, 2013, and that became public on June 17, 2014.  The Justice Department secured the defendant’s initial indictment on June 26, 2014, and the charging document was unsealed today.


The case is being investigated by the FBI New York Office's Joint Terrorism Task Force with assistance from various other government agencies.  The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Counterterrorism Section of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.

Omnicare Agrees to Pay $124 Million to Settle Allegations Involving False Billings to Federal Health Care Programs

Omnicare Agrees  to Pay $124 Million to Settle Allegations Involving False Billings to Federal Health Care Programs
The settlement resolves allegations brought in two lawsuits filed by whistleblowers. The first whistleblower, Donald Gale, a former Omnicare employee, will receive $ 17.24 million.

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA -  Omnicare Inc., the nation’s largest provider of pharmaceuticals and pharmacy services to nursing homes, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, has agreed to pay $124.24 million for allegedly offering improper financial incentives to skilled nursing facilities in return for their continued selection of Omnicare to supply drugs to elderly Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, the Justice Department announced today.

The settlement resolves allegations that Omnicare submitted false claims by entering into below-cost contracts to supply prescription medication and other pharmaceutical drugs to skilled nursing facilities and their resident patients to induce the facilities to select Omnicare as their pharmacy provider.

The facilities were participating providers under agreements with Medicare and Medicaid.   In addition to the facilities’ own claims for reimbursement from Medicare for short-term rehabilitation treatment rendered to patients, Omnicare submitted additional claims for reimbursement to Medicare and Medicaid for drugs Omnicare supplied.   Of the $124.24 million to be paid by Omnicare, $8.24 million will go to various states which jointly funded the Medicaid programs impacted by Omnicare’s conduct.


The settlement resolves allegations brought in two lawsuits filed by whistleblowers under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act, which allow private parties to bring suit on behalf of the government and to share in any recovery.  The first whistleblower, Donald Gale, a former Omnicare employee, will receive $ 17.24 million.

Faith is essential today

Posted by Eve

Having Faith is Essential in Today’s Modern World
American life is hard. First, we are all striving to succeed, each of us raised on a diet of self belief and the notion that we are each capable of achieving whatever we set our minds to (although sometimes the truth is different). We get jobs and mortgages and raise families and (if we are lucky) take regular vacations.  We try and look after our health but probably eat too much fat and sugar and maybe don’t exercise as often as we should (despite guidance from the American Heart Association which suggests we should each engage in at least 150 minutes per week of moderate cardio).  We see horror stories on the news and it seems the main stream media delight in showing death, murder, terrorism and hatred 24/7. All the while we set the alarm clock each evening ready to get back on the treadmill, earning that paycheck and paying the bills. It all seems a bit soul destroying, like we are living in a lawless, value-less, spiritual-less society - which is exactly why having faith in God is a vital tool for coping in today’s modern world.  

A Godless society
According to the findings of the Religious Landscape Society, the number of American adults who consider themselves affiliated with any given religion is on the decline. This is further evidenced by news reports -  a relatively recent article published in the UK's Guardian suggested that America is itself becoming less Godless in line with a rise in secularism. So what are the wider implications of these findings? Is American society worse (or better) with less faith? Are people happier with faith? Can faith in God help us cope with the demands of everyday life?  These questions are asked by all of us at one stage or another and unfortunately there are no easy answers.  So let’s look at the individual issues.

Are People Who Believe in God Happier than Those Who Don’t Believe?
To answer this question it is important to step back and look at humanity as a whole. Human beings have long nurtured a need for spiritual fulfilment – it’s written in stone (so to speak) and it is no coincidence that every single culture has developed a religion which adheres to the ideal of a creator – or several – of some kind. A look at the Big Religion Chart gives a glimpse into the complexity of different religions and belief systems found around the world. In America today, religion is as diverse as it is popular and according to the Washington Post, Catholicism remains one of the most widely practiced faiths in the USA. Whatever your beliefs, it is interesting to note that spirituality and faith remain a focus for billions of Americans – and a recent study by the University of Illinois actively suggested that those with faith are indeed happier than those without any faith.

The Pitfalls of Modern Living
Modern life is stressful. There is no denying it and this statement is backed up by findings published through the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention which shows that 1 in 10 American adults suffers from depression. Similarly, the Trust for America’s Health are concerned that too much emphasis is placed upon cure rather than prevention when it comes to physical health. Perhaps more disturbingly, mortality rates from eating disorders is on the increase and, as Psych Guides explain, these can be particularly hard to treat.  The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that  drug abuse is also on the increase, with approximately 9.2% of the population having used illicit substances at some point.  Bizarrely this trend actually ties in with an increase of health awareness in America, as evidenced by the explosion of gyms opening across the country – the 24/7 gym open – literally – 24 hours a day! Likewise, Americans are more conscious of nutrition; the International and American Association of Clinical Nutritionists is dedicated to providing public education about health and nutrition. Yet there is a steady rise in the number of people accessing rehabilitation centers and detox programmes. With these statistics in mind, it is clear to see that having faith is an essential ingredient to leading a fulfilling life and that faith can help us all through the most difficult times in our lives.

Using Faith as a Coping Mechanism
People who have faith are often more empathetic towards other human beings. They are usually more confident in their everyday life and also have a ready made support network to turn to in times of stress and turbulence. People who believe in God tend to gravitate towards a more healthy lifestyle, with Health Care Coach.org endorsing the notion that a healthy spiritual mind-set leads to a healthy body. People with faith tend to show a natural ability to think about life in abstract terms and are therefore better equipped to view human suffering in light of a more holistic picture – a broader view which encompasses the past, present, future and other unseen dimensions. With current events depicting a depressing state of affairs the world over, having faith is the one thing that can help all of us if we, too, are capable of maintaining an open min

OCSD Seeks Assistance Identifying Laguna Nigel Armed Robbery Suspect

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA -On Tuesday, June 17, 2014 at approximately1 a.m., an armed robbery occurred at the Arco AM/PM gas station located at 27491 La Paz Road in the city of Laguna Niguel.  The suspect held a “stun gun” to the cashier’s back/neck area and demanded cash.  The suspect fled the business on foot with an undisclosed amount of cash.  No vehicle was seen.

The suspect is described as a male, possibly African-American, mid-late 20’s, 5 feet 10 inches, 160 pounds, wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt with dark stripes, blue jeans and black shoes.  The suspect had his head and the lower portion of his face covered with a black mask or similar type clothing.

Anyone with information regarding this suspect is asked to call the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at (949) 425-1942 or (714) 647-7000.  Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS (855-847-6227) or atoccrimestoppers.org.   

OC Coroner Seeks Public’s Assistance in Locating George Ades' Next of Kin

Posted by Cotoblogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA  – The Orange County Sheriff’s Department Coroner Division is requesting the public’s assistance in locating family members of George Ades, 67, of Irvine.

Mr. Ades, who was wheelchair bound, died suddenly in Santa Ana on Monday, June 9, 2014. Anyone with information on this person is asked to contact the Coroner Division at (714) 647-7400and reference case #14-02298-KI.

Matthew Lowry, a Fountain Valley 17-year old charged with attempted murder

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA - Matthew Lowry, a 17-year-old was charged as an adult today for attempted murder for stabbing a man as he was loading groceries in a parking lot.

Steven Matthew Lowry, Fountain Valley, is charged with one felony count of attempted murder and one felony count of attempted carjacking with sentencing enhancements for personal use of a deadly weapon and great bodily injury.

According to the Orange County District Attorney's (OCDA) office, at approximately 9:00 p.m. on June 14, 2014, Lowry is accused of approaching 50-year-old Manuel S. as the victim was loading groceries into his vehicle in a Stater Bros. parking lot in Fountain Valley. The defendant is accused of attempting to carjack the victim. When the victim refused to give up the keys to his vehicle, Lowry is accused of stabbing the victim two times in the abdomen, once in the back, and once in the chest. The defendant is accused of fleeing the scene on foot.

Witnesses in the parking lot called 911. Paramedics arrived and rushed the victim to University of California, Irvine Medical Center. Manuel S. was treated for life threatening injuries and had to undergo emergency surgeries as a result of the stab wounds.

The Fountain Valley Police Department (FVPD), who arrived at the scene and investigated this case, located Lowry on a street near the grocery store and arrested him.

The Tea Party - far right extremists

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA -  "In one of the most stunning primary election upsets in congressional history, the House majority leader, Eric Cantor, was soundly defeated on Tuesday by a Tea Party-backed economics professor who had hammered him for being insufficiently conservative." Writer what we refer to as syptate-sponsored media, The New York Times, Jonathan Martin: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/11/us/politics/eric-cantor-loses-gop-primary.html

The clear implications are that David Brat is an extremist.  Brat will tell you that he had zero to no support from the Tea Party, and that his body of work is more consistent with traditional conservative values.  He will  that Mr. Cantor's views and that of the GOP establishment are more consistent with the views if the democrats in DC.

While the state-sponsored media tries to paint the Tea Party as extremist,  keep on mind that it is not a one cohesive party, but a loosely-knit grass roots effort with some common principles, such as the ones listed below:

Typical "Extremist"  Tea Party Principles

We believe:

1] That all powers not expressly delegated to the Federal government are the sole domain of the states, as set forth by the Founding Fathers in Article 10 of the U. S. Constitution.

2] In fiscal responsibility and the prudent use of public funds.


3] In limited government as envisioned by the Founding Fathers and for the reasons that they stated.

4] In the rule of law and its uniform application at all levels of government and society.

5] In the national sovereignty of the United States, its proper defense and security, to include her borders.

6] In the personal rights and responsibilities of every U.S. citizen, as expressed by the Founding Fathers.

7] In the free market as the basis of all business conducted within our borders.
It is the duty of every U.S. citizen to hold every candidate of every political party to these standards and to vote accordingly.

Now, based on the above stated principles, a partial observer can easily conclude that the  state-sponsored media like CBS, NBC, ABC, LA Time, NY Times and others who use the term Tea Party to suggest members are extremists,  are  either consciously trying to support the Obama administration's failed policies, or are simply Exhibit A for the old adage:  The far left sees the world as they are, not as it is.

OCSD arrests Tustin man, Daniel Sweeny on suspicion of multiple ATM robberies.

OCSD arrests Tustin man, Daniel Sweeny on suspicion of multiple ATM robberies.

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif. –  On Sunday, July 8, 2014, Orange County Sheriff’s Department investigators arrested Daniel Eamon Sweeny, 40, Tustin, in connection with numerous ATM thefts.  Sweeny is suspected of having stolen as many as 24 ATM machines across Orange County over the course of the last year.

a
According to the OCSD, in February 2014, Sweeny is suspected of stealing an ATM machine from inside a Laguna Niguel business.  During the preliminary investigation, a suspect vehicle description was obtained resulting in a patrol deputy making a traffic stop which led to a short pursuit.  The suspect driver fled the vehicle on foot, eluding capture by deputies.  A subsequent investigation resulted in forensic evidence linking Sweeny to the vehicle.




Over the last several weeks, Sweeny was observed by investigators driving around in the early morning hours appearing to be casing commercial buildings as targets for possible thefts.  On June 8, 2014, Sweeny was observed driving a stolen Jeep Grand Cherokee in the Mission Viejo area.  Sweeny was stopped in the vehicle and taken into custody for possession of stolen property.

Investigators executed search warrants subsequent to Sweeny’s arrest resulting in additional evidence.

Sweeny was booked into Orange County Jail for possession of stolen property and is being held on $500,000 bail.  He is scheduled to appear in court today, June 10, 2014.

The investigation is ongoing as investigators continue to evaluate evidence and prepare to present the ATM theft case to the District Attorney’s Office.

Anyone with additional information that may assist in the investigation is asked to call the Orange County Sheriff’s Department at 714-647-7000.  Anonymous tips may also be submitted to Orange County Crime Stoppers at 855-TIP-OCCS (855-847-6227) or at occrimestoppers.org

Change how Laguna Woods Village GRF HOA board is elected

 LETTERS

Laguna Woods Village, CA.

Dear Friends,

I know that many of you have already sent in your "NO" vote on your ballot. That's great. For those of you who are still undecided and are calling and sending emails asking for more information, I just wanted to clarify something. 

Our United Board is in favor of changing how the GRF Board is elected. Right now the Board is elected by their friends on the other Boards. That is why WE can't recall them or stop them from spending our $42,000,000 a year in HOA fees without any oversight by our community. 

The United Board wants to change the way GRF directors are elected to a DIRECT ELECTION BY entire community.  That is the real reason that the GRF is behind eieio and the recall of the entire United Board. The 6 majority GRF directors do not want to give up their power over the entire community and allow the community to make their own decisions about borrowing, constructing, and demolishing OUR FACILITIES. 

THE UNITED BOARD, ALONG WITH ITS SUPPORTING MEMBERS ON THIRD MUTUAL AND GRF  HAVE ENOUGH CORPORATE VOTES  TO CHANGE THE MAKEUP OF THE GRF BOARD.  IN THE FUTURE THAT MAJORITY WILL CHANGE THE WAY THE GRF BOARD MEMBERS ARE ELECTED---- TO A DIRECT ELECTION BY THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY.   THIS IS WHY YOU NEED TO VOTE NO TO GUARANTEE THAT YOU HAVE A VOICE IN DECIDING HOW YOUR COMMUNITY IS RUN AND BY WHOM. 

Please return your ballot with the NO vote before June 30th. If you did not receive your ballot, contact Martin and Chapman at 

714-516-8121. They will make sure that you get one. 

Best,

Stevie Magid

PPV

Individual arrested in Coto de Caza Golf Club Identified as Mark Minkoff

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Coto de Caza, CA - at around 9:30 Sunday morning, several Orange  County Sheriff patrol cars, were dispatched to the Coto de Caza Golf Club Center.  A few minutes latter several OCSD officers had high powered rifles drawn, and a few minutes latter, a suspect, identified by the OCSD spokesperson Jeff Hallock as Mark Minkoff, was handcuffed while two officers had their high powered weapons aimed at Minkoff

Minkoff, arrested for negligently discharging a fire arm, is being held on $25,000 bail and is scheduled to be arraigned tomorrow.  Additional charges, such as DUI may follow, according to Officer Hallock.

The suspect is a male Caucasian, blond hair and beard, approximately 175-200 pounds, wearing shorts.  He could easily pass as a golf club patron.

Suspect in custody at the Coto de Caza golf club

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Coto de Caza, CA - at around 9:30 this morning, several Orange  County Sheriff patrol cars, were dispatched to the Coto de Caza Golf Club Center.  A few minutes latter several OCSD officers had high powered rifles drawn, and a few minutes latter, a suspect was handcuffed and two officers had their high powered weapons aimed at the suspect while subdued, in handcuffs and sitting at the curve.

I asked several officers for additions details, but they were mum, pointing me to the departments PIO, he was not at the scene, as far as I could tell.

The suspect is a male Caucasian, blond hair and beard, approximately 175-200 pounds, wearing shorts.  He could easily pass as a golf club patron.

Missing Person Alert; Anne Brady

Posted by CotoBlogzz

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA -  law enforcement agencies need the public's help locating Anne Brady, a female Caucasian with brown eyes, blond hair, 5'2" and 115 lbs.

Ms. Brady was last seen at 7:00 am on May 30, 2014, at her residence located on the 2900 block of Obrajero in the city of San Clemente.  She was last seen by her husband before he left for work that morning. When he returned home that afternoon, Ms. Brady was gone.

Ms. Brady suffers from several medical conditions and may be in need of medication.  It is thought she may be in the area near John Wayne Airport.


 DOB 07/10/1954


VEHICLE:                 2001 Lexus 430LS, 4-door, Black
                                    CA Plate: 4URB669        


Anyone with information regarding Ms. Brady’s whereabouts is asked to call the Orange County Sheriff’s Department

Case 14-101142
Tel:  714- 647- 7000

California Hit with $31.6 Billion Audit Misstatement

By Chriss Street

The California Bureau of State Audits set off a scandal on June 1^st by disclosing that the State Controller’s Office made accounting misstatements amounting to $31.65 billion.  The timing of the announcement may be devastating to the Democrats who expected to use their super-majority to pass billions of dollars in increased spending, but may now find the net effects of the accounting restatements are a $7 billion General Fund deficit.   

California Governor Jerry Brown’s and State Controller John Chiang’s staff refused to go on camera and answer questions as the news broke.  To give a perspective on the size of the accounting misstatements discovered by the Bureau of State Audits, the $31.65 billion in errors equals about a third of California’s $96.3 billion General Fund Budget for 2013-14.  The improper accounting treatments included:

• $7.7 billion – Understated federal trust fund revenues and expenditures;
• $653 million – Overstated general fund assets and revenues;
• $8 billion – Overstated California State University’s bond debt;
• $9.1 billion – Understating a public building construction fund; and
• $6.2 billion – Overstatement of deferred tax-revenue.

As the former Treasurer of Orange County, California it is my preliminary judgment that under state law the negative $7.847 billion impact from overstating general fund assets and revenues and overstating deferred tax revenues may create an “on-budget” deficit to the state’s $96.3 billion “General Fund Budget.” 

It is also my informed judgment that the positive $26.8 billion from understating federal trust funds, overstating of the State University bond debt and understating of the public building construction fund reserve are good news for the state.  These positives are “off-budget” issues that are considered outside the state’s General Fund Budget.  These monies cannot be transferred into the General Fund to cover any new deficit.     

Sacramento State University accounting Professor John Corless told CBS News that he agrees with auditors that those glaring mistakes should have been caught, “Someone’s not using their equipment right, and they’re not using their heads.”

Republican consultant Mitch Zak called for an investigation saying “It’s offensive as a taxpayer.  There’s no consideration it appears if they misstate or mismanage my tax dollars that there’s any retribution.”

Neither State Controller Chiang nor his “John Chiang for Treasurer 2014” campaign spokesman would respond to reporters’ questions.  None of Chiang’s opponents for State Treasurer got back to CBS13 with comments. 

The State Controller’s office blamed high staff turnover, lack of qualified staff, budget cuts, and late and incorrect data from numerous agencies for the errors.  In a statement issued to CBS13 in Sacramento, the office said “All issues were corrected and identified before the final report was published, and not one cent of taxpayer dollars was affected.” 

The office’s statement may be technically true, but the California Controller's audit authority is independent of both the Governor and the Legislature.  The California State Constitution requires an annual balanced budget as documented by the State Controller. 

Consequently, the Governor’s Budget and all the Legislature’s spending actions must comply with the monthly financial statements and annual audits issued by the Controller’s office.  The size of the newly discovered accounting misstatements will have a major impact on the Democrats’ spending.

Controller Chiang must not have known the Bureau of State Audit’s report would be so devastating, because on May 20^th he issued a press release regarding his audits: 

“Audits protect Californians by highlighting problems and restoring accountability.  The audits have served as catalysts for greater transparency and improved management of taxpayer dollars, allowing us to transform an accounting office into an accountability office.”  

The author welcomes feedback and will respond to comments by readers

Chriss W. Street

Contact:   chriss.street@gmail.com

Website:  www.chrissstreetandcompany.com