Don't lose sight of the problems that the arab convenience store merchants create. They don't have much respect for our laws. But I agree that they have every right to protect themselves. The Black community resents every other minority - the nonchocolates.
What "problems" are Arab owners creating? The fact that they don't mind working for their living, instead of relying on taxpayers to support their sorry asses?
Sorry Mustafa, I was referring to the food stamp fraud, the money laudering, the sale of alcohol and tobacco to underage purchasers and the fencing of stolen goods through their stores, and the violencee - but you are right, this is not a problem - please don't be offended. I also apologize for those Danish cartoons. May your camel always have sweet breath.
Sorry Mustafa, I was referring to the food stamp fraud, the money laudering, the sale of alcohol and tobacco to underage purchasers and the fencing of stolen goods through their stores, and the violencee - but you are right, this is not a problem - please don't be offended. I also apologize for those Danish cartoons. May your camel always have sweet breath.
I've notice about a half dozen Sams signs - "Dr. John Sams" no less - 2 of them were at his house. Anyway, he is moving and spending money. Everyone else is waiting for Ned to announced except John who doesn't care and Delores who already knows. The Republicans will devour each other and Joe Fuller will take it in a run-off.
Scarlett? What are the upper middle class republicans saying about Sams - is he gaining traction or are they waiting on Delores, Rod Noles and Harry Silver?
Myron will control Brewer because he holds the minority card over any white mayor. Fuller will not be intimidated by Lawson or CFS, that's why I believe they will both fight the Fuller candidacy with everything they have but very quietly. Sams just seems to piss everybody off. Have you ever had a conversation with him?
Andrew, Dave is back at KSYL but is not part of the show. We have good ole Bob Madison and Lynn Rollins. At least Rollins has a sense of humor....Bob is somewhat a stick in the mud. I miss Dave. i didn't always agree with him (he is a little to liberal for my taste) but he was good at stirring up good discussion points. At least we don't have to listen to Fred "I look like a corpse" Rosenfeld anymore.
Fuller is an OK guy and has certainly paid his political dues, however, he can not form a proper sentence. If someone is going to represent our city to the world they need to have some facility with English. Maybe Ken Juneau will write out everything for him and he will just have to read or he could wear a radio receiver and earpiece like Bush in the debates.
I wholeheartedly believe that Arabs do not have the market cornered on crime, by any stretch of the imagination. One need only look at the numbers in all the jails in the country to see a good picture of the nature of criminality.
Of course there is a criminal element in the Arab community, just as there is in any other culture.
Arabs are not inherently criminal, ghetto convenience stores are. Therein lies the problem. There are problems with operating a shop with one employee in a difficult neighborhood at 3 a.m. in the morning when you have booze, tobacco, and cash on the premises. I don't envy these operators.
Franklin Roosevelt, a Democrat, introduced the Social Security (FICA) Program. He promised:
1.) That participation in the Program would be completely voluntary,
2.) That the participants would only have to pay 1% of the first $1,400 of their annual incomes into the Program,
3.) That the money the participants elected to put into the Program would be deductible from their income for tax purposes each year,
4.) That the money the participants put into the independent "Trust Fund" rather than into the General operating fund, and therefore, would only be used to fund the Social Security Retirement Program, and no other ! Government program, and
5.) That the annuity payments to the retirees would never be taxed as income.
Since many of us have paid into FICA for years and are now receiving a Social Security check every month -- and then finding that we are getting taxed on 85% of the money we paid to the Federal government to "put away," you may be interested in the following:
Q: Which Political Party took Social Security from the independent ”Trust" fund and put it into the General fund so that Congress could spend it?
A: It was Lyndon Johnson and the democratically controlled House and Senate.
Q: Which Political Party eliminated the income tax deduction for Social Security (FICA) withholding?
A: The Democratic Party
Q: Which Political Party started taxing Social Security annuities?
A: The Democratic Party, with Al Gore casting the "tie-breaking" deciding vote as President of the Senate, while he was Vice President of the U.S.
Q: Which Political Party decided to start giving annuity payments to immigrants?
A: That's right! Jimmy Carter and the Democratic Party. Immigrants moved into this country, and at age 65, began to receive Social Security payments! The Democratic Party gave these payments to them, even though they never paid a dime into it!
Then, after doing all this lying and thieving and violation of the original contract (FICA), the Democrats turn around and tell you that the Republicans want to take your Social Security away!
And the worst part about it is, uninformed citizens believe it!
I don't see the problem. You have a republican congress and whitehouse and a packed supreme court. Eliminate social security or change it or exempt it. The republicans have the votes but lack the courage.
Any federal law, program or system that remains intact is permitted to exist by the Republicans. Put that in you expensive custom made imported 28 guage over-and-under quail gun and shoot it.
Miss Bill do ya? Ah yes, I miss having my balls crushed in a vise too. Scumbag and scum queen are hopefully history and will never have to be repeated.
But of course, the question is, with a majority in both the house and senate, a "nuclear option" to stop filibuster, and a president that will sign anything that is bad for the elderly and/or poor, what is to stop the republicans from enacting the reforms that you think they want. The answer is that they realize that they rant all of this horseshit to make Pat Robertson and Dr. Dobson happy but they know their platform is lame and don't have the courage to enact any of that stuff. The GOP is in control so what is done or not done is to their credit or blame.
And the thing that "shot" in the Clinton Whitehouse didn't hurt anybody but the shooter and the dry cleaner.
Scarlett it ain't class envy, it's moral indignation. I bet that his fancy shotgun could buy 3 or 4 armored vests for the troops in Iraq. You republicans fly the flag and praise the lord but when our soldiers come home in that aluminum shipping container you look the other way. You must secretly hate yourself.
Sams is a true Republican. He is epitomy of everything the party stands for, but unlike the party cowards, Sams just says it. All the republicans should love the guy because he says what they are all thinking.
And if WJC hadn't been so concerned with Monica and decimating the military and giving away our secrets to China and North Korea, we wouldn't even be in this situation right now. Clinton failed miserably at protecting the country and now W has to do what Bubba should have done but hadn't the guts to do. War is a dirty business, and now it's being revealed that Saddam DID have a WMD program and he dumped much of it in Syria, Lebanon and other places before we went in.
Sorry to have gotten off the main topic of this blog, cenla politics.
Assume that you have a vague idea of what you're talking about and the previous administration let the military slide - just assume that is true for the sake of your argument.
What kind of dumbass would start a war on two military fronts, invade a country for no reason other than Cheney told you to and because you pretended there were WMDs there; and would leave this country without reasonable military manpower while Hamas and North Korea and Iran were poising to kick our ass. Take your blame.
You need not take my word for the argument, it's fact. One source is a book (presuming you read them) entitled "Dereliction of Duty", by Lt. Col. Robert "Buzz" Patterson, USAF (Ret). He carried the nuclear football for Bubba from 1996-1998. Foreword was written by Al Santoli, a noted foreign policy analyst. The book brings out some shocking facts about Bubba's scummy policies, especially how he did just as I stated in my previous post; decimated the military and gave away secrets to China and North Korea.
The second paragraph of your post makes no sense at all, so I won't even go there.
Paragraph 2 discusses the relative wisdom of starting two separate and independent invasions of hostile countries with the sort of deminished military resources you describe. Sound smart to you?
It had to be done and he did it. The wisdom of doing it with the bare essentials is the whole genius of it. True, mistakes have been made in the process, but the way it was done was sheer military genius. Ask any military expert without a bias. In fact, we could probably take on Iran right now if we absolutely had to. I have to think though, that Iran is not going to commit suicide by plowing ahead full steam on their present course.
I just heard on the news that the City Council wants to spend $600,000 of taxpayer money on Louis Marshall's rape trail that is being built along Bayou Rapides. This was supposed to be paid for by federal and state grants. NO city money was to be used. Have we heard that before?
Am I the only one outraged by this waste of our tax dollars? The city council has a complete disregard for the common working citizen. This would be a good one for Ned to veto. Maybe one of his advisors will tell him what to do.
You'd think that Ron Grant could devote some of his Bush hatred toward something he could actually do something about...our corrupt city officials! If he would devote 1/10 of his venom towards the city he could work wonders!!!!
Well, lets ke a look at it. Bush starts a war he can't finish, lies to the Americans and the UN about weapons of mass distruction and now sells our ports to the United Arab Emirates while waiving 911 in our face every second. Thousands of young Americans have been blown to shit for no apparent reason. We don't adequately equip them or support them.
On the other hand we have Charles F. Smith stoping an effective smoking ordinance.
Did anybody watch the council meeting tonite? Harry essentially told a citizen voicing a complaint to quite bitching and say nice things about the city. I heard he went to visit a neighborhood group, told them not to bother him with complaints, he does not micromanage, and told a subsequent meeting of another neighborhood group that the first group was a bunch of complainers. He was asked why no number or method of contacting him appears on the city's TV information channel or internet and he said to call somebody else and if they need him they can reach him. Rick! Come back!
Yes, take a look at it. Bush didn't lie to anyone. Saddam had WMD and USED them on his own people. The big mystery is what did he do with them and NOW it has been coming out that he transported them to foreign countries, i.e. Syria, Lebanon, etc. If you'd watch something other than the liberal biased media, you'd learn something other than the spoon-fed pap you're feeding on. We're going to win the war if people like you would stop bashing him at every turn.
Security on the port will NOT change in any way, so there's not really a worry there either.
Don't tell me about port security, tell all them left-wing commie pinko politicians like Bill Frist and Dennis Hastert. They obviously share the same concerns as I and the rest of the American people. You have listened to so much conservative talk radio that you brain is operating on AM frequency. And your abject ignorance is funny on the late night shows because they don't realize how dangerous your stupidity is. I almost get tired of making fun of you.
WMDs - are you still hoarding cans of tuna for Y2K?
Dear Grip(e), you seem comforted in the fact that port security will not change. Do you know of any pundit or defense expert or national policy maker that believes that our port security is any more than a joke? All the predictions are that the "big one" will come unimpeded thru a major American port. And while somebody is Xraying your carry-on bag or electronically sniffing your shoes at the airport, shipping crates the size of the Jakes Bldg. are coming to our shores by the millions, unmonitored, unidentified, and unsafe.
The only possible advantage to our national security is that the arab terror-related communications will be easier to monitor if they are coming thru their corporate offices in Baltimore and New Orleans.
Why don't you do a google search of WMD use in Iraq. You're only pointing out your own ignorance.
I've listened to both sides of the port issue. Obviously, you haven't. We can't appear predjudiced in the eyes of the world on this issue. The UAE has been an ally in the war on terror and if we spoil this deal with them, it may make them wonder why they've been trying to help us.
1. If I don't point out my own ignorance, who will?
2. Why don't Frist and Hastert and Gingrich and Hillary have access to the same excellent information, intellegence, and insight that you obviously have at your fingertips?
1. If I don't point out my own ignorance, who will?
2. Why don't Frist and Hastert and Gingrich and Hillary have access to the same excellent information, intellegence, and insight that you obviously have at your fingertips?
THIS is an example of why CLECO can not be trusted. They have a NEW commercial where they come on and tell all the gullible customers that the reason YOUR Utility bill is HIGH is NOT their fault but caused because NATURAL GAS is at an all time high and going to stay that way....LIES....Natural gas has declined as per this EIA Natural Gas Weekly Update.....Not only are they liars they think we are stupid...just read:
Overview: Thursday, February 16 (next release 2:00 p.m. on February 23, 2006)
On the week the Henry Hub spot price declined 57 cents per MMBtu to $7.31. At the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX), prices for futures contracts also registered significant declines. The futures contract for March delivery, which is the last contract for the current heating season, declined 66.9 cents per MMBtu on the week to $7.066. Relatively high levels of natural gas in working storage and falling prices for competing fuels likely contributed to falling natural gas prices this week. Working gas in storage as of Friday, February 10, was 2,266 Bcf, which is 43.9 percent above the 5-year (2001-2005) average. The spot price for West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil decreased $4.90 per barrel on the week to $57.61, or $9.93 per MMBtu.
Why not call the Public Service Commission about this. I understand they are already investigating Cleco for charging more at the same time Natural Gas is going up. The Public Service Commission number is 1- 800-256 2397
It is interesting how the lines appear to be a lot clearer when it comes down to national politics ... tax-cuts for the rich (for whom else? Since the poor don't pay any damn taxes ...), port security (if the Arabs or the Brits, both long time allies, supervise the lack of security seems to be less than important - rather than trying to block a sale of private property our legislators should put their energy into tighter security requirements), and the Veep shooting lawyers (might get him elected president if he was to run) seem to inflame people a lot better than the antics of our local "leaders". Personally I think we're better off directing the same passion to the local ongoings and leave the national politics to a national politics blog.
Now on a local level, it amazes me how ministers call for the boycott of businesses owned by a certain minority and the outrage is rather non-existent, where if the shoe was on the other foot (Arabs calling for the boycott of African-American stores), we'd have the Rev. Jessie Jackson himself decending from the heavens. It is the BS triple standard that pisses me off - soon we'll have robbers filling out information sheets before a victim can decide if they should shoot back, after all the number of robbers shot in a given period of time should reflect the racial makeup of the community - btw: I wonder if a robber could make a workman's comp claim if gets shot but not killed, it IS a work related injury after all.
Did we decide yet who is going to get their ass whipped by myron in the at-large race? As unorganized as the opposing forces seem to be I am starting to believe that Myron at-large and Fuller as mayor is a good possibility.
Am I trying to band people together by being a lightning rod? Yes, I'd rather draw my usual heat than listen to another snake comment ...
I saw Harry Silver on Ch. 4 and subsequently heard about his comments to and about District 4 neighborhood groups. That is why the neighborhood associations wanted Mark Lampert. He does stuff and listens. This time the council will have to accept the voter's wishes. Sweet.
Right now we don't have representation in District 4. Harry Silver is a go-along guy and is trying to unload his store building. With Lampert in Dist. 4, somebody new at large and a decent leader as mayor, we can really turn this thing arround. We have to concentrate on the at-large seat. Dr. Slatkin may be the only one with the courage and the resources to take on Lawson so we need to rally behind him or else.
Roosevelt Johnson recently told an audience that the high utility rates were the fault of the administration, not the council. I hope that Delores addresses that issue and sets the record straight. She can't afford the utility bill heat if she is running for mayor. Does she have the guts to declare council responsibility? We will know tomorrow. Listen in.
I've listened to security experts, experts on port management and you've listened to parties who are more interested in their next elections. Hillary and all the other politicians are only ranting to their voters, "see I'm for security" as loud as they can yell. I trust W and his advisors to not jeopardize the country.
Does anyone know anything about today's press conference regarding the Three Amigos. Surely someone is in the know. Or do we have to wait until the Town Talk or KALB tell us what happened?
Town Talk says that the dispute between the Three Amigos and the City is resolved. Bet they get their jobs, back pay, an apology, and a 75% discount on their utility bills if they live in the City (that would cost us nothing since they don't).
Thats sure not much for a wrongful termination settlement. I understand that each of them gave up more than that in vacation and accrued benefits. So it might seem bad on first glance but it is very cheap to get them out of there
Granted this is a paltry sum when you figure that Jock gets a third leaving $50K less costs and expenses to divide by the Three Amigos. But why pay them anything? You are obviously right about they perceived value of their information. But if they were bad guys why not just tell them to go suck an egg. They can't push us arround. We have Brigit Brown!
So, according to the Town Talk, the Three Amigos are to be paid $25,000 apiece. Is that hush money, guilt money, "we overcharge electric bills so we have plenty of money" money, or what? Surely someone has a direct line to the true information?
This might be Ms. Brewer cleaning up all the old bullshit that plagued the 2nd floor. Good work. Unfortunately, she has unleashed the Jockster on the Mayor's Election and will have to share the intelligent WASP vote with him. Guess I better send Joe Fuller a potted plant or some candy.
Do you really think that the Amigos would have settled for $16K+ after being ridden out on a rail, humiliated, cut off from their livlihoods and income and shamed, if they had a case of anything but the red ass? Don't remember the wife talk.
Dear Civil - the answer is obviously no - besides the $25K less attorney fees and expenses, they also got fired, humiliated, unemployed, scape-goated, and tainted. Do you really think that Ned's declaration of no wrongdoing holds up under the fact that they were escorted off the premises by police - suspended without pay, without notice, without recourse, without explaination. Its sort of like the guy indicted for child molestation when the charges are ultimately dropped. In the public eye they are convicted.
And I don't claim political sophistication but I appear to be significantly more aware and informed than you. Lets see what you got . . .
Civil, quit being such a pussy. The only reason that we have a glimmer of what is going on is the Town Talk and that Gunn guy. Today they had that piece on the people devastated by the high utility rates with a cogent explaination or how it happened and who done it. I realize you think you are being provocative but you really don't have the social skill to get there. You just come off as a pussy.
Civil, quit being such a pussy. The only reason that we have a glimmer of what is going on is the Town Talk and that Gunn guy. Today they had that piece on the people devastated by the high utility rates with a cogent explaination or how it happened and who done it. I realize you think you are being provocative but you really don't have the social skill to get there. You just come off as a pussy.
Do you political neophytes realize how close Jock is to the snake? You guys better wake up and connect the dots before you go trying to recruit someone for mayor.
Unfortunately, I won't be in town to call in for Delores' radio appearance. I hope someone will ask her what Mayor Brewer's stance is regarding the Council's voting to spend $600,000 on Louis Marshall's rape trail. Does she favor it? As Chief of Staff, will she advise Ned to veto it? This answer will tell a lot about what type of mayor she would be.
Yes we realize it oh rumor monger - the answer is "NOT VERY". Jock has been the council's greatest (and perhaps, only) challenge. We would be damn lucky to get Dr. Jock Scott as our mayor (or governor). If you suggest some affiliation between Jock and Myron you are a moron or a lier (or both).
You all want to know what the real truth is with the three amigos...well here it is: NO depositions taken in this case. City agreed to settle because they did not want the depositions and the truth to get out. The three amigos were in this to get their names cleared and NOT to rape the city (way too much of that going on already). The money was token the exoneration was the goal. So what did we all miss from depositions: 1.Ned is of diminished capacity due to illness that continues to progress. 2.Albin Provosty fabricated alegations against the three to get Ned to fire them. 3.Deb is too worried about where her families next paycheck will come from to do the right thing by her husband. 4.Delores is only worried about Delores and her campaign for Mayor. 5.Ken is just in for the ride and his $70/hour paycheck. ....so where does this leave Ned? - surrounded by this cast of characters who really love and care about him! POOR NED!!!!!
Here is the deal on Marshall's Bayou Rapides Trail. Louis wants it but the Administration doesn't. They don't have the balls or the clout to tell him no. He will play his "poor constituent" race card if they do. They decided to "leak" this to the press via Ken Juneau with the hope that the public will raise hell about the 600k and kill the whole idea. Problem solved.
Questions: Why would Albin make up stuff to get the Amigos fired? Who considers this exhonoration? The council, not Albin or the administration, wanted the Amigos gone and CFS told people publically that they were going to be run off weeks before it hit the fan.
I don't see this as answering or explaining anything and the only person who benefits from this being over (and I doubt it's over) is Delores. I saw Charlie Weems at the press conference. He got Betty Cox over a million bucks for wrongful termination that was not nearly as aggregious this this one.
Jock Scott would have all these ruthless people in the slammer within his first 4 years.
In answer to the last comment regarding the Marshall rape trail ... That's a good theory except the public is NOT raising hell. The public NEVER raises hell. The only complainers are people who use this blog site -- and they are anonymous!
I just read the TT's story on the 3 amigos. Ned said he fired them (on the day a hurricane was bearing down on us) because he wanted to go in a different direction. If that was the case, why didn't he have the decency to tell these gentlemen the reason they were being put out to pasture? Maybe someone can ask Delores on the radio today? I'll be traveling, but I'll tune in to hear her answer.
Albin had to come up with a reason to fire the three or Ned would have never done it. Albin knew it would take alegations of wrongdoing to get Ned to fire them. Albin is the mole working with/for Myron and company. Who knows, he may have some legal problems in the future over all this!
Ms. Brewer put the utility bill problem firmly on the council's back. I appreciate her courage and candor. The discussions on the Three Amigos were complete BS and an insult to listeners. No questions about the lawyers, consultants, and Marshall's Folley ($600,000 walking trail along Bayou Rapides) but be encouraged by the administration's obstruction of the Patel hotel lease extension. Somebody is finally looking.
Ms. Brewer did mention that the city's business with the Amigos was over but there may be some "State" action (which I assume means "criminal") against the Amigos. Interesting
I had never heard Brewer before but after listening to her am very impressed. She seems to know what she is talking about and is not afraid to say "im sorry" and "ill get on it" when callers had complaints. I somewhat understand that she is in between a rock and a hard place and probably can not criticize the current administration but it seemed clear that she had other ideas . As of today I am very much leaning towards Brewer as our next Mayor....
Some of you need to check the records before you speak dumbasses. Who does the snake hire as his lawyer when he needs one? Hint: its his very close friend and its not BB.
Here is an even bigger question. How can Provosty represent the City of Alexandria, The Parish of Rapides AND the England Authority AND CLECO ..C L E C O ....and Individual board members from each.....and not have any conflicts both in principle and in law? Didn't their firm get cited for that by the Ethics panel for just such conflicts ? Yet they continue.
Here's a question. Why didn't all you people with your "tough" questions now, call in this morning!? I heard very few tough questions after all this lip service on here. Holy shit people!
Here it is. Why was this never reported in the Town Talk?
LOUISIANA BOARD OF ETHICS
DATED: October 14, 2004 OPINION NO: 2003-109
RE: In the matter of Provosty, Sadler, DeLaunay, Fiorenza & Sobel, APC
The Louisiana Board of Ethics (the “Board”) pursuant to the authority contained in LSA-R.S. 42:1141, conducted a private investigation concerning information that the law firm of Provosty, Sadler, DeLaunay, Fiorenza & Sobel, APC may have violated provisions of the Code of Governmental Ethics (LSA-R.S. 42:1101 et seq.) (the “Code”) by providing compensated services to Cleco at a time when Cleco, through its subsidiary, was seeking to terminate a lease with the England Economic and Industrial Development District (the “England Authority”) and when the law firm served as the legal counsel for the District. On the basis of information obtained by the Board during the course of this investigation and with the consent of Provosty, Sadler, DeLaunay, Fiorenza & Sobel, APC, the Board now makes the following essential: I. FINDINGS OF FACT 1. Provosty, Sadler, DeLaunay, Fiorenza & Sobel, APC (“the Provosty Law Firm”) served as general counsel to the England Authority at all pertinent times pursuant to a contract for professional legal services. The Provosty Law Firm provides general legal services to the England Authority. Most of these legal services were provided by Albin Provosty, a stock holder in the Provosty Law Firm. 2. The Provosty Law Firm also provides legal services and representation to Cleco Corporation on a matter-by-matter basis at the request of Cleco. 3. At times pertinent, Cleco Corporation owned several subsidiary companies, one of which is Cleco Services, L.L.C. Cleco Services, L.L.C. entered into a sublease with the England Authority in 1998 by virtue of which Cleco Services, L.L.C. leased a building owned by the England Authority. The term of the sublease was from January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2003. Cleco Services, L.L.C. changed its name during the term of the sublease to UtiliTech Solutions and then to UTS, L.L.C. The Provosty Law Firm has never provided legal services to UTS, L.L.C. 4. On October 16, 2001, Michael Joseph, President of UTS, L.L.C. via correspondence to the England Authority requested an early termination of the sublease between the two parties. 5. On October 18, 2001, a copy of the correspondence referred to above was transmitted to Albin Provosty. On October 22, 2001, Mr. Provosty, as counsel for the England Authority, submitted a written reply to the England Authority in which he wrote, among other things, that “ . . . there are no legal impediments to an early termination of the sublease . . .” 6. All negotiations relative to the terms and conditions of the mutual termination were conducted between the England Authority’s Director of Economic Development and officers of UTS, L.L.C. Mr. Provosty did not take part in the negotiations. 7. On October 26, 2001, the Chair of the England Authority Legal Committee wrote a letter to Mr. Provosty asking if there was a conflict of interest under the Rules of Professional Responsibility in him advising “. . . the England Authority with respect to an legal impairment to an early termination of the lease . . .” 8. Mr. Provosty subsequently informed the England Authority that under it policy concerning conflicts it should appoint conflict counsel to handle the matter. 9. Thereafter, on November 15, 2001, the England Authority, passed a resolution appointing conflict counsel to prepare correspondence to the Attorney General concerning the propriety of early termination of subleases. 10. On November 30, 2001, Albin Provosty transmitted correspondence to conflict counsel enclosing prior research containing his views on the legal issues involved in early termination of leases and requesting to review a copy of the draft of the letter to the Attorney General prior to its mailing. A draft of the letter was faxed to Mr. Provosty’s attention on December 13, 2001 by Michael Joseph who had obtained a copy of the letter from the England Authority. If called to testify, Mr. Provosty would state that he did not attempt to influence the manner in which conflict counsel posed the letter requesting an opinion from the Attorney General. 11. Subsequently, the England Authority Board voted not to request an opinion from the Attorney General and directed conflict counsel to prepare legal documents necessary to accomplish a mutual termination of the sublease pursuant to the terms and conditions negotiated by England Authority staff and representatives of UTS, L.L.C. 12. On February 8, 2002, conflict counsel sent a copy of a draft of the mutual termination agreement to the Chair of the Legal Committee and to Albin Provosty and requested that they review the mutual termination agreement. On February 11, 2002, Mr. Provosty wrote a letter to conflict counsel declining “. . . to comment on the document. . .” 13. Any fees for services provided by the England Authority by the Provosty Law Firm in connection with the issue involving the termination of the lease were waived by the law firm. 14. During all pertinent times, the Provosty Firm provided compensated legal services to Cleco on matters unrelated to the termination of the sublease with the England Authority. 15. On February 12, 2002, conflict counsel forwarded the final draft of “agreement to terminate sublease,” which was subsequently approved by the England Authority. II. APPLICABLE LAW At issue in this case is Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code of Governmental Ethics. Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code prohibits a public servant from receiving compensation for services rendered to persons referenced in Section 1115 of the Code. Section 1111C(2)(d) provides: C. No public servant and no legal entity in which the public servant exercises control or owns an interest in excess of twenty-five percent, shall receive any thing of economic value for or in consideration of services rendered, or to be rendered, to or for any person during his public service unless such services are: * * * (d) neither performed for nor compensated by any person from whom such public servant would be prohibited by R.S. 42:1115A(1) or (B) from receiving a gift.
The pertinent portion of Section 1115 provides:
A. No public servant shall solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, any thing of economic value as a gift or gratuity from any person or from any officer, director, agent, or employee of such person, if such public servant knows or reasonably should know that such person:
(1) Has or is seeking to obtain contractual or other business or financial relationships with the public servant’s agency . . . * * * B. No public employee shall solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, anything of economic value as a gift or gratuity from any person or from any officer, director, agent, or employee of such person, if such public employee knows or reasonably should know that such person: (1) Conducts operations or activities which are regulated by the public employee's agency. (2) Has substantial economic interests which may be substantially affected by the performance or nonperformance of the public employee's official duty.
Also, Section 1112 of the Code prohibits a public servant from participating in certain transactions and provides in pertinent part: 1112. Participation in certain transactions involving the governmental entity * * * B. No public servant, except as provided in R.S. 42:1120, shall participate in a transaction involving the governmental entity in which, to his actual knowledge, any of the following persons has a substantial economic interest: * * * (3) Any person of which he is an officer, director, trustee, partner, or employee. (4) Any person with whom he is negotiating or has an arrangement concerning prospective employment. (5) Any person who is a party to an existing contract with such public servant, or with any legal entity in which the public servant exercises control or owns an interest in excess of twenty-five percent, or who owes any thing of economic value to such public servant, or to any legal entity in which the public servant exercises control or owns an interest in excess of twenty-five percent, and who by reason thereof is in a position to affect directly the economic interests of such public servant.
The following terms are defined in Section 1102 of the Code and are relevant when analyzing the above Sections: (15) “Participate” means to take part in or to have or share responsibility for action of a governmental entity or a proceeding, personally, as a public servant of the governmental entity, through approval, disapproval, decision, recommendation, the rendering of advice, investigation, or the failure to act or perform a duty. (18) “Public employee” means anyone, whether compensated or not, who is: * * * (c) Engaged in the performance of a governmental function. (d) Under the supervision or authority of an elected official or another employee of the governmental entity. . .
(19) “Public servant” means a public employee or an elected official. (22)(a) “Thing of economic value” means money or any other thing having economic value, except promotional items having no substantial resale value; food, drink, or refreshments consumed by a public servant, including reasonable transportation and entertainment incidental thereto, while the personal guest of some person, . . .
III.
OPINION It is the opinion of the Board that Albin Provosty is a public servant of the England Authority and that the Provosty Law Firm violated Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code by receiving compensation for providing legal services to Cleco at a time when Cleco, through a subsidiary, was seeking to terminate its sublease with the England Authority and while the Provosty Law Firm rendered advice to the England Authority in connection with the termination of the sublease of UTS, L.L.C, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cleco. Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code prohibits a public servant from receiving a thing of economic value for services rendered to or for a person who has or is seeking to have a contractual, business or financial relationship with the public servant’s agency or a person who has an economic interest that can be affected by the performance or nonperformance of the public servant’s duties. The Supreme Court in Glazer v. Commission on Ethics for Public Employees, 431 So.2d 752, 756 (La. 1983) analyzed the prohibition inherent in Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code in the following, to wit: The prohibited conflict of interest situation involved in this case is one in which the public servant receives private compensation from persons having business with his public agency for services rendered by the servant to that person outside the servant's regular government employment. The danger in the conflict, of course, is that the public servant's official dealings with the person may be unduly influenced contrary to the public interest by the public servant's receipt of private compensation from the same person. The danger exists even if the public servant actually performs bonafide services for his outside income. Accordingly, The Code of Ethics for Governmental Employees specifically prohibits any public servant from receiving anything of economic value for or in consideration of services rendered to or for any person if such public servant knows or reasonably should know that such person has or is seeking to obtain contractual or other business or financial relationships with the public servant's agency. La.R.S. 42:1111(C)(2); 42:1115(A). Id. at 756.
As counsel for the England Authority, the Provosty Law Firm is a public servant. UTS, L.L.C., a subsidiary of Cleco had a substantial economic interest in the early termination of the sublease. The Provosty Law Firm, as counsel for the England Authority, initially participated in matters involving the early termination of the sublease of Cleco’s wholly-owned subsidiary UTS, L.L.C. Therefore, the Provosty Law Firm violated Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code by virtue of its representation of Cleco in unrelated matters, at a time when the law firm participated in matters involving the early termination of the sublease. The Board recognizes that Mr. Provosty and the Provosty Law Firm authored correspondence withdrawing from the early termination issue and that the matter was referred to a conflict counsel. Also, it appears that Albin Provosty violated Section 1112B by participating in a transaction in which Cleco’s subsidiary UTS, L.L.C had a substantial economic interest, by virtue of his initial participation and advice given to the England Authority with respect to the propriety of the early termination of the sublease at a time when the Provosty Law Firm provided compensated legal services and representation to Cleco. In this particular situation, given the facts outlined above, and the fact that although Albin Provosty initially participated in advising the England Authority on early termination of the sublease, he subsequently withdrew as counsel in the matter when the issue of conflicts of interest was brought to his attention by the Chair of the England Authority Legal Committee, it is the conclusion of the Board that no interest would be served by the imposition of a pecuniary fine. IV. DECREE AND ORDER For the forgoing reasons: IT IS ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED that the Board finds as a matter of fact and as a conclusion of law that the Provosty Law Firm violated Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code of Governmental Ethics, at a time when it served as the counsel for the England Authority with respect to the termination of a sublease between the England Authority and a subsidiary of Cleco and the Provosty Law Firm received compensation for representing Cleco in unrelated matters. IT IS ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED that the Board finds as a matter of fact and as a conclusion of law that the Albin Provosty, in his capacity as counsel for the England Authority, violated Section 1112B of the Code of Governmental Ethics, by rendering advice and making a recommendation to the England Authority with respect to the early termination of a sublease between a subsidiary of Cleco and the England Authority, at a time when the Provosty Law Firm provided legal services and representation to Cleco in unrelated matters. By Order of the Board this 14th day of October, 2004.
s/Robert L. Roland s/T. O. Perry, Jr. Robert L. Roland, Chairman T. O. Perry, Jr., Vice-Chairman
s/John W. Greene s/E. L. Guidry, Jr. Judge John W. Greene Judge E. L. Guidry, Jr.
s/R. L. Hargrove, Jr. s/Michael J. Kantrow, Sr. R. L. Hargrove, Jr. Michael J. Kantrow, Sr.
s/Joseph Maselli Absent and did not participate Joseph Maselli Henry C. Perret, Jr.
Absent and did not participate s/Dolores Spikes Ascension Delgado Smith Dr. Dolores Spikes
s/Edwin O. Ware Edwin O. Ware
CONSENT The undersigned (a) stipulates to the facts found by the Board; (b) waives the procedural requirements contained in Section 1141 of the Code; (c) admits that its conduct, as described above, violated Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Louisiana Code of Governmental Ethics; (d) consents to the publication of this letter; (e) agrees to comply with the conditions and orders set forth in this opinion; and, (f) agrees not to seek judicial review of the findings and actions taken in this opinion.
s/William H. DeLaunay 8/26/04 Authorized Representative of Date Provosty, Sadler, DeLaunay, Fiorenza & Sobel, APC
The undersigned (a) stipulates to the facts found by the Board; (b) waives the procedural requirements contained in Section 1141 of the Code; (c) admits that his conduct, as described above, violated Section 1112B of the Louisiana Code of Governmental Ethics; (d) consents to the publication of this letter; (e) agrees to comply with the conditions and orders set forth in this opinion; and, (f) agrees not to seek judicial review of the findings and actions taken in this opinion.
Wooooooooooooo...so you mean to tell me that the same lawyer that represents CLECO also represents the city at a time when their are issues as to whether Cleco screwed the City? Is this true? Unbelievable!!!!
I did not know about that Provosty conflict opinion. I do remember when Albin represented the England Authority against John Grafton and John Grafton against the England Autority. Hank Bruser, a prominent local attorney then on the England Authority tried to point that out but, for some reason, nobody would listen.
I apologize for my ignorance, I thought that Provosty was the good guy here. Provosty + Myron + Kelvin = treachery?
Lets make sure we have the full list. Provosty represents 1) city of alexandria, 2) England authority 3) Rapides Parish sheriffs office 4) Rapides Parish police Jury 5) Greater Alexandria Development District or Gada. 6) CLECO!!! HOW can one group serve so many masters and NOT have conflicts? And why should they?
No shit! Dear Billy Gunn: I am the person that has been consistently kissing your ass and sticking up for the Town Talk. The Provosty Firm used to represent the Town Talk when it was the Joe D. Smith/Guaranty Bank cabal but I don't know if they still do or not. I know that your paper would not run Provosty kid DWI arrests and similar minor transgressions. I hope that is changed. Please do something with this information. I was comforted by the fact that Albin was guarding the chicken coop and now they say he is Col. Sanders.
Seriously , how can one law firm represent all those and not have conflicts of interest on lots of issues. And throw in the fact that they represent individual members of each group AND Cleco and you have to wonder a) how they can represent the interest ONLY of one client b) why the client would want to hire a firm with such potential conflicts of interests.
Call me crazy but I consider serving as a major in the sheriff's dept AND serving on the city council is a conflict of interest. And we have that in CFS.
Deja Vu -I now recall that our brand spanking new sheriff Hilton, in his first term, was going to hire his brother-in-law, Rocky Willson (damn good lawyer) and some others as his legal council and the committment was already made when the Provosty Firm layed $3000 on William Earl. Cash trumped family in that case.
It would appear that once you buy the public official, the folks who are regulated by those officials will naturally follow.
Deja Vu -I now recall that our brand spanking new sheriff Hilton, in his first term, was going to hire his brother-in-law, Rocky Willson (damn good lawyer) and some others as his legal council and the committment was already made when the Provosty Firm layed $3000 on William Earl. Cash trumped family in that case.
It would appear that once you buy the public official, the folks who are regulated by those officials will naturally follow.
#1 Asskisser speaks the truth about the Town Talk - you may verify this thru Jim Leggett
#2 Precisely what burning question did you pose to Ms. Brewer this morning. I gotta tell ya, your hostile postings have all of the telltale earmarks of a coward. Hope to see your name on a ballot.
I am fortunate enough not to live inside the city of Alexandria so I figured I'd allow those of you who do to call in with your concerns. Sounds as if you're the ones who want to have the status quo.
Actually, I got all of my burning questions answered. The stuff about Provosty was unknown to me until after the broadcast but Brewer would have hardly been the one to answer that. The big question I had was how Brewer would handle herself and would she have the courage to put the rightful blame for the outrageous utility bills firmly on the council and SHE DID. I shall but her sign in my yard with pride and anticipation.
The only questions that went unanswered were the ones that you were too sheepish or lazy (I'm betting "sheepish") to ask. Civil, is that your precious self being provocative again. You little devil.
One need only look at the current commercial Cleco is running to get a taste of the FRAUD and MISINFORMATION that Cleco is willing to feed the public. In the commercial Cleco VP says that our bills are higher because natural gas is at an all time high and is likely to remain high. FALSE! Facts are that Natural gas has declined since Novemenber and continues to drop daily. The commercial , which according to KALB staff is a NEW commercial , is nothing short of a LIE. SHAME on everyone at CLECO who allows this type of lying to be told to the public while going into our money to take more. $41 million profit does that sound like a company who is Having to raise rates? Why are we forced into having to buy our utilities from this monopoly?
According to Brewer this morning, the blame for higher electric bills rests squarely with the council. For this they should NOT be rewarded with reelection. Sadly though, you get what you pay for in officials. They screw you and then you go reelect them!
What I still can't seem to understand is why if the three amigos were simply let go as the administration says to "go in another direction" why are they due money? People are fired every day in the marketplace without monetary reward via lawsuit. Is this going to set a precedent???
Perhaps the reason it doesn't make sense is because it ain't true. Do responsible people: a) fire people instantly, without reason or explaination, or advance warning or notice ? or
b) Give people $75,000 of public moneys for no reason or justification?
There is no way that an intelligent thoughtful reasonable person could answer either of these questions in the affirmative.
The real question is: does Randolph, et al, owe us a truthful and complete explaination? After all, it is our $75,000.00.
We wouldn't give any money to the Boys & Girls Clubs to help children but we will dump a barrel full on our favorite white folks without reason because they are our favorite white folks.
The $75K to the dismissed employee was just part of what the city has invested in this fiasco...attorney fees for this case are $100K+...the time of all the contract consultants (Ken Juneau @ $70/hr and of course Albin Provosty @$100+/hr)to develop spin and more BS...TOTAL TAB = PRICELESS...and for what?...to protect the reputation of our Mayor who is sick and incompetent in office!
SCOOP: Hot off the press - I just heard from an insider at City Hall. One of the "nasty" wives showed up in the Mayor's office yesterday morning for the press conference. Delores cancelled the press conference and rescheduled for pm. When the "nasty" wife showed up again, she was told she could not attend. I guess the public is not allowed to hear information the Mayor calls the Press to come and make public??!!?? The best part is Delores had two undercover cops at City Hall to make sure the "nasty" wife did not get in. So be sure to add these city resources to the taxpayer's tab on this deal!
i want ANYONE who knows to refute ANY of the items listed as fact about the Provosty lawfirm. HERE is a chance to set the record straight if any of it is not accurate. ANY of it. I will be interested to see if anyone contradicts any of the information. Was the ruling from the Ethics committee accurate? Did anyone look it up ? Has anyone ever read anything like that in the Town Talk? What is different from them representing England Authority while representing Cleco and representing the City of Alexandria while representing CLECO? What is the difference. Anyone with factual information , not opinions, please respond. Certainly someone from that big firm reads this so this is YOUR chance to explain the facts and if there are any special circumstances that make the representation of the City of Alexandria and CLECO not a conflict you can spell them out here. Please enlighten us.
Billy Gunn....where are you !?!!!?!?!?!? Its like picking up spare change. Has Sheila Jackson got you chained? I mean why move her adoration for Charles Frederick from the front page to put real stories in the Newspaper. You know when we will know that the paper is controlled by Ms Jackson? When they highlight Bridgett....i feel it coming.
Look nothing wrong with one Stop service. I mean, I can go to one lawyer to handle writing a lease for my Hotel business and then another atty in the sam LAWFIRM can represent the city and reviews the lease to see if it is a good idea to sign and both attys working for two different clients can bill their respective clients and get paid. Whats wrong with that? Imagine all the postage they save their clients.
All of these comments are interesting. Some of them are even true. It's amazing how many of these experts have no clue as to what the truth is.
Some points to ponder:
1) The entire City Council is not responsible for the outrageous utility prices -- only 5 councilman voted to screw us.
2) Ned could have vetoed the council ordinance. There were enough votes to sustain his veto. He knew it and I know it.
3) I guess Delores and Crutchfield were representing the Mayor on today's radio program. Wouldn't it have been nice if the Mayor would have awakened early enough to be there himself?
4) Yes, Provosty represents all the entities mentioned previously (and more). He also "rented" office space to Ned. Why did Ned need another office outside City Hall? I wonder if Ned can produce a cancelled rent check?
5) Doesn't anybody remember who one of the stars in Myron's TV commercial was? Why it was Al Provosty himself? Imagine that?
I'll be with Fuller. He makes the snake, CFS, the 100 City lawyers and the bluebloods nervous as hell. I like it! He is the only one with enough political capital to clean house.
Fuller has his own house to clean. But honestly if any of those democrats were to run for Mayor ...Please dont throw me in that briar patch..!!!..GIVE US FULLER.....It might be the ONLY way we can get an intellegent person elected.....so..Im all for your one man campaign to promote Fuller.....WE WANT FULLER!!!!
Keep joking and underestimating Fuller. A powerful State Rep. decided to beat Fuller a couple of years ago. He poured thousands of dollars into the campaign of Fullers well known and well liked opponent. Fuller spent zero dollars, knocked on zero doors and never ask for one vote. On election day, Fuller recieved almost 80% of the vote. His people know him and love him. He is very capable. He will probably have the Sheriff, assessor, DA, most of the police jurymen, most white democrats, 85% of the black vote and plenty of money. You beat that equation buddy.
WEll sounds like you ARE a Fuller man. He is an idiot and has only run for Police Jury. I hope he runs. More scrutiny by all the people will dump him like perhaps you on the waste pile of self adoring losers. I pray Fuller is the choice. He will most positively guarantee that Brewer will win. Better yet Maybe Fuller AND CFS will run. Eat each other alive and then get swallowed by the White candidate in the runoff. Cuz ya sees there aints gonna be as many MONEY races out there kingfish to get Fullers votes to da polls in a runoff. So keep on praisen and promotin ...Every vote for the Fullerman is a vote to get Brewer elected. See da lever...Pull er for Ful ler.
It's easier to name the Councilmen who DIDN'T screw you with higher utility rates. Chuck Fowler waged a valiant effort to lock in favorable gas rates. Chuck was chairman of the Utilities Committee. He was outvoted 2-1 by Hobbs and Marshall, They were under orders from Smith and Lawson who were trying to steer the business to their friends William Barron and Jeff Richardson.
Rick Ranson gave the five brothers hell privately and publicly and predicted the now infamous rates we are all experiencing.
Ironically, had Ned taken a stand, Roosevelt would have sided with Ranson and Fowler. Instead, he stayed with the brothers and today we are all feeling the effects of that decision.
There is bound to be a tape, transcript or minutes of that meeting. Someone should produce it and hammer Hobbs with it now. If someone reasonable could be found to run in Hobb's district it would eliminate an absolute moron, yes man, and CFS puppet and show that there are hazards associated with doing Lawson and Smith's bidding. Either we change Dist. 2 representation now or reward Hobbs with 2 more years. Marshall is actually on the Patel payroll. He is ripe for some serious political consequence.
If the utility bills could be firmly hung on Hobbs, Lawson, and Smith, they would not survive politically.
And the Brewer fan is fantasizing about the wrong combination. Instead of Brewer versus Fuller and Smith, howabout Brewer and Sams and Noles and Silver vs. Joe Fuller?? That is a far more likely Sept. ballot. That means that Brewer will be going home with Ned and Hillary.
You don't need a transcript. It's all captured on video during the Utility Committee meeting. I'm sure the City Clerk can produce it. Chuck Fowler will remember it. It was reported in the TT and no one paid any attention to it.
Perhaps, we SHOULD pay attention to what's happening and act on things WHEN they happen - not bitch about them when it's too late.
My point is, that if this occurance will show Hobbs constiuents that he left them in this lurch, he will be replace with someone that will be forwarned of the consequences of this kind of self-serving conduct. This is an issue that touches everyone and affects all. Many of the people in Dist. 2 will have to sacrifice much of their quality of life because of Hobb's actions. If Hobbs is not held to account for his deeds his selfishness is reinforced and the bad machine remains intact. You can't go back and buy the gas at the cheaper price but you can put the blame where it belongs.
Dist. 2 includes Horseshoe Drive, Martin Park, Deerfield, and a lot of places that could produce a viable candidate to take on Hobbs and if Hobbs is tied up in his own contest, he won't be in a position to try to protect his fearless leader. A strong candidate for Dist. 2 could be the key.
Look folks...If you want to find out the real scoop on the Council activities you have to go to the committee meetings. Watch them run around like little chickens with their heads cut off, huddled up in corners and closets making their little deals. Everything happens in there and its all settled and done before the full council meets. Just show up about 2:30 on council tuesdays and observe.
We are told that a lot of the business happens at the CFS Saloon after the meetings. The Town Talk knows about this sunshine infraction but, for some reason, protects it. I guess they just don't like secrets from THEM.
i know said: You left one out of the GAS RAT PACK working on and with Myron and brothers - William Barron and Jeff Richardson's buddy Jeff Courtney. He won't forget his piece of the take!
For some reason we waste a ton of time dwelling on past wrongs instead of trying to put the city back together again. There will always be the Gas Rat Pack and others that will create opportunities to profit at the expense the taxpayers but cannot succeed without greedy public servants willing to sell out the people. These same profiteer names keep cropping up. It is just unfortunate that they can find lots of cracks in the council ethics to crawl through. No wonder Rick left.
Here is the troubling part. Did the mayor participate, who knows, BUT he and his staff and his lawyers had to know about it and they had/have a legal duty to the people (and in the case of Ned and the other lawyers, to the Louisiana Supreme Court) to report it and inform their clients, the victims, of this stuff.
It just defies logic and reason to say that the administration and it's extended staff were not completely aware of this kind of bullshit. Now Delores says "trust me".
Have you ever been in the BACK ROOM aka snack room behind the committee room at a counsil meeting. Table full of food. I am told this is donated by local VENDORS. THIS is in violation of ethics laws. If they are paying for it then its a violation of TRUST and a waste or our tax dollars. Someone from the city explain. We know you are watching and or participating in this blog......
aaa..but its those who enjoy the carrot sticks who make it that way...and it is the snaking on the apple that got Adam removed from the garden....thinks abouts that bro.
The food at council meeting is NOT donated. It is paid for with your tax dollars. CFS started the every meeting feast when he became president. City officials do know the shenanigans going on with the council. That's why they ran off the three amigos - the three did not play the game and put up road blocks everywhere possible. Ned is no threat in his current compromised condition. Delores has never been a threat - proof is she is still there. She fell as hard as Ned did for the scam that ousted the amigos (and she doesn't have a debilitating condition to excuse her ignorance).
I think the councilmen are paid about $300 per month which probably doesn't cover their cell phone bills. If they want a snack or cup of coffee I don't mind.
These aint snacks friend. It would be a full meal for some of the poor people of Alexandria who can not even afford the basics due to idiot decisions by this Counsil that have allowed Cleco to rape the citizens of Alex and allowed the gas rates to be passed on to the rate payers when lower rates could have been secured.
And their Symbol of importance CELL PHONE That they keeep put up to their ears like a rap star wears gold chains aint cuttin too much impression on my overtaxed underserved overly pissed off self either.
Screw this Democrat/ Republican talk.....I hearby announce the formation of the KMAC WWAC (pronounced "cmack wac")Party......Kiss My Ass CAUSE WE WANT a CHANGE Party
Does anybody know what the councilmen are paid (legally) for their untiring service and unwaivering dedication to the city. The Charter says $300 but I doubt they would let that stand. Please somebody who knows.**
Release the truth from the bonds of oppression and greed and free the doves of information to greet the honesty of the morning so that MY people of ALL races can live in harmony and honesty and enjoy the fruits of their honorable lives such that God can look down upon those who have assended unto earthy throes and throw down the rath upon those unrightous demons of greed and dishonesty so that never more shall those in power feast amd live fat lives at the banquet table of the hard working people of Alexandria....(maybe if we talk their language it will make sense to em.. )..cant hurt.
Isnt being a deputy and an elected official a) contrary to state law as a "dual " office holder b) a conflict since the Sheriff has contracts with the City of Alex? And while we are at it....How can Bridgett Brown have a contract WITH the City of Alexandria as an atty and at the SAME time vote on issues involving contracts with the City of Alexandria as a Commissioner on the England Authority? ..Is not this much worse than what Chuck Fowler just got into trouble on ? Seriously ..
Hey Billy...how bout them questions?...Want us to write the story and you just put your name on the top of it?...Geeeez....maybe they got a garden club meeting to report on or better yet...I think they are gonna sweep a street on main street of Pineville for the Cleanest city contest...think we can get a front page story on that groundbreaking news?.....
I asked the question yesterday about the conflict of interest with CFS being on the sheriff's dept AND on the city council but never got an answer. Why doesn't the Attorney General get involved in this and other matters involving these official scumbags???
Major Charles F. Smith is the only deputy that has not attended, much less completed the POST Police Academy Course. He does nothing, knows nothing, helps nothing, and any time of the day or any day of the week you can find a Jail Trustee sitting in Smith's swivel chair, smoking and talking on the telephone to his squeeze. Smith is out in the sheriff's car "helping others, and himself".
Dear "Asking", While Charles Smith is crotch deep in ethical conflicts, I don't think Sheriff Hilton's charity is one of them. Smith's dealing with Patel, on the other hand, and his covert operation of a saloon that is regulated and licensed by the City, and his dealings with certain consultants, now there he has a problem. And I sincerely believe that before it is all over, District Attorney Downs will kick Smith's ass all the way to Angola.
DA Downs although we all thought was a brave and good man has been a real disappointement . Case in point. Remember the issue of one of the counsil having a criminal conviction that by LAW prevents him from voting or running for office? IT IS CLEAR IN WRITING...our DA chose not to addres it. Rembmer when John Sams was pulilng a fraud on the voters by renting a house in one district and living in another so he could keep his seat on the School Board until they redrew the map? Our DA ...would NOT TOUCH it.....So.NO...Jam Downs will DO NOTHING...Documented Historical FACT
D A Downs don't do political stuff like school board residence checks. Downs pursues criminal wrong doing. I think that's what we are talking about here. Remember when he sent the NAACP chief to prison for 10 years?
Dear Civil, you precious little vixen: I can't imagine any circumstance where Delores would take back Dorsey or where Hobbs would even ask. Do you think there is somebody out there that will challenge Hobbs. He is CFS's rubber stamp - which he readily admits.
Dorsey does feed his flock quite well...with MRE's courtesy of FEMA and CFS. I still can't figure out the deal with Dorsey. He has not been fired yet we are told that he will not be back at work. I suppose if they fire him he will be in line for a 25k check like the others got. Dorsey had the council and Ned in his back pocket...HE could do no wrong, that is until he pissed off Albin Provosty.
Oh...believe me, Dorsey has done plenty...but apparently none of it will stick. This is the same man that was convicted of distribution of cocaine. Supposedly, he was taking the fall for his boss, Peter Betts. He was also in very thick with John K. Snider our illustrious former Mayor. He was appointed as Assistant Public Works Director by Ned as a token to deliver the black vote. When Charlie Nunnaly and Harold Chambers conspired against Darrell Williamson to get him out of City Hall Dorsey convinced ned to name him as Public Works Director, and Darrell was sent to the Planning Department.The Council loved Dorsey because he would "handle" all there pet projects. He handled Bayou Roberts really well and got the City in lots of trouble. Dorsey was hauling all kinds of MRE's, water, etc to his church during the hurricane. Said he was running a shelter but wasn't on the Red Cross list. Apparently, no one is willing to "squeal" so the investigation has stalled. Stay tuned for the second half of "Days of our Lives"
Actually, I believe it was Possession of Cocain, not distribution, and I don't think Snyder liked him very well. Snyder was popular with the African-American population but had little real respect or use for them. The Council was composed of Marion Chaney, Columbus Goodman, Erol Dorsey, and some white people.
What's the stir on the second floor all about? Are the sleeping beauties waking up to the fact that Prince Albin is really a frog? Have they looked in the mirror and seen all the warts he has inflicted on them?
When the Amigos were gone and Ned appeared to not be able to even feed himself, Albin was the only person watching the store. Glad he was arround.
I am astonished by the ethical conflicts issues. That firm is a joke among the lawyers about their "conflict"" policy. The Patel stuff is amazing with Albin and Brenner representing opposing parties but the classic will always be Albin representing the England Authority against John Grafton and defending John Grafton from the England Authority. But here again, everybody looked the other way and got handsomely rewarded for their blindness. Poor England Authority member and prominent attorney, Henry Bruser, made a fool of himself for mentioning the conflict. Brigit Brown was making Mardi Gras umbrellas @ $50 a pop.
It is interesting to me that there was no such hue and cry when the council was controlled by whites. And yes, I am black. I just thought the blog needed to be integrated.
Your point has been repeatedly made by CFS. Strangly enough, he never said that the transactions in question were proper or legal, only that the white council members got away with it. That is unfair, I suppose, but I don't think that is the review standard. I think the review standard is whether or not the scrutinized transaction or relationship is ethical and or legal.
As far as fairness, these huge utility bills present a problem to the employed middleclass but are devastating to the poor and young hardworking middleclass family raisers. So the real thing for you to consider is what the black councilmen have done to your African American brothers and sisters. How many of them can identify with Charles Fredrick's cushy job or Myron's perfectly matched pair of Lexus automobiles and elegant house in a primarily white neighborhood.
In otherwords, maybe you deserve to be angry, but at whom???
Let me be clear. I do not defend wrongdoing by anyone, regardless of race. But, I do believe that the problem that these bloggers seem to have with the council is really about a shift in power. It is clear that those in positions of authority and with influence are no longer the faces of the previous establishment. Consequently, these new power brokers have brought new people to the table and that frightens those who have made their way -- whether directly or indirectly -- from city government. Isn't that the real issue here?
I agree that it is AN issue and perhaps the issue that prevents us from talking intelligently about other very important issues. CFS uses race as his justification as if to say "what do you expect from a bunch of negros". That is unfortunate because, in many people's view, both black and white, as he discredits his office, he discredits his race. And you are absolutely right, we resist change in any form. I am white.
Civil, you need to let Scarlett use the bathroom first. She has a balling to prepare for. You can get ready in no time. All you have to do is put on your sheet and hood.
Dear New Blogger, I appologize for Scarlett/Civil. This is a dual personality phenomenon where Scarlett is the feminine side and Civil is the REALLY feminine side.
They would like to convey an air of southern aristocracy but, to borrow a phrase from Paper Moon, they are like the "white on old chicken shit". They appeal to our darkest racist fears because they are searching desparately for someone to be better than.
God, I love it when I am this witty! My spirit soars.
Civil, how come you ain't out mingling with the cool people. That old "personality" thing? Glad you at least have us to talk to. After the surgery, you can be yourself. Maybe that is obnoxious also.
Should be easy enough to arrange - speaking your mind should only take amout 12 seconds. Wear something smart, yet casual, yet professional, yet debonair, yet bold. You know, something that makes you look heterosexual - borrow something.
Talk is cheap. Alexandria needs a breath of "fresh air," and a change in its leaders. The only way that can be accomplished is by electing people that have NO affiliation with those presently in power. And the mayor is only one vote. He has to present it to the council for approval. Why try and control the snake when we could elleminate him permantly? There is an independant candidate for the snake's position, a newcomber, with no political ties with ANYONE. Why are y'all afraid to jump on Dr. Slatkin's bandwagon right now? Again, talk is cheap. Change begins when each of us own up to our personal responsibility by getting involved in this race. The "race" is about the course and direction that Alexandria will take. This election will decide whether we really want a change. Changing political factions will only change whose pocket is being lined. If your desire is to get rid of the snake, then pick up your stick. Your stick is your voice and your vote. Written opinions on this blog are interesting, but they are useless unless they are backed by conviction. Or in other words, Money talks and b.s. walks. Who are you?
If you defeat the snake, it all falls to the ground. If the snake survives, you can complain on this web site all day and night, nothing will change. He is the puppet master. They all revolve around the den.
Everybody needs to see a real surge in support for Dr. Slatkin and others need to be discouraged from jumping in. There is a rumour that Myron has recruited someone to dilute the anti-Myron vote but it that happens, we just need to identify it an move one. We should be talking to our friends and neigbors right now about Dr. Slatkin and making sure that they realize how important this is. Found out how to reach him (I guess calling his office) and tell him what you can do: yard sign, walk the neighborhood, show up and hand out stuff at the Queing on the Levy deal next week. I hope we don't blow it.
Scarlett, why don't you contact Dr. Slatkin, he is incredibly nice, and tell him to get his ass to the levy for that festival. We need to volunteer to do what we can to make that look good. He has to look credible to the public before they will jump on board so we have to be the catalyst. We can start the landslide on the levy. 'WE LIKES DE RIBS"
It is my fervent hope that Civil Sentient and Maverick have finally succumbed to PMS and will spare us their vitreole and themselves, embarrassment. Let us move onward and upward without all the personal attacks and bullying. If nastiness and anger are that important in their lives they can go down to the pound as help euthanize people's pets. Amen
I'm with you Olive. Strange, neither has ever won (or even tied) an exchange. Seems like they would just move over and let more rational voices prevail. Here's hoping.
Delores wants to spend $640,000 so that Shaumetria Batist can have a place to sit and fish. What if we just buy her a nice goo every week. Then we could spend $639,000 on the CFS's water park where it will do some good.
2,571 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 1601 – 1800 of 2571 Newer› Newest»Don't lose sight of the problems that the arab convenience store merchants create. They don't have much respect for our laws. But I agree that they have every right to protect themselves. The Black community resents every other minority - the nonchocolates.
What "problems" are Arab owners creating? The fact that they don't mind working for their living, instead of relying on taxpayers to support their sorry asses?
Sorry Mustafa, I was referring to the food stamp fraud, the money laudering, the sale of alcohol and tobacco to underage purchasers and the fencing of stolen goods through their stores, and the violencee - but you are right, this is not a problem - please don't be offended. I also apologize for those Danish cartoons. May your camel always have sweet breath.
Sorry Mustafa, I was referring to the food stamp fraud, the money laudering, the sale of alcohol and tobacco to underage purchasers and the fencing of stolen goods through their stores, and the violencee - but you are right, this is not a problem - please don't be offended. I also apologize for those Danish cartoons. May your camel always have sweet breath.
I've notice about a half dozen Sams signs - "Dr. John Sams" no less - 2 of them were at his house. Anyway, he is moving and spending money. Everyone else is waiting for Ned to announced except John who doesn't care and Delores who already knows. The Republicans will devour each other and Joe Fuller will take it in a run-off.
Scarlett? What are the upper middle class republicans saying about Sams - is he gaining traction or are they waiting on Delores, Rod Noles and Harry Silver?
So, did Dave come back to KSYL's morning show?
Myron will control Brewer because he holds the minority card over any white mayor. Fuller will not be intimidated by Lawson or CFS, that's why I believe they will both fight the Fuller candidacy with everything they have but very quietly. Sams just seems to piss everybody off. Have you ever had a conversation with him?
Andrew, Dave is back at KSYL but is not part of the show. We have good ole Bob Madison and Lynn Rollins. At least Rollins has a sense of humor....Bob is somewhat a stick in the mud. I miss Dave. i didn't always agree with him (he is a little to liberal for my taste) but he was good at stirring up good discussion points. At least we don't have to listen to Fred "I look like a corpse" Rosenfeld anymore.
Fuller is an OK guy and has certainly paid his political dues, however, he can not form a proper sentence. If someone is going to represent our city to the world they need to have some facility with English. Maybe Ken Juneau will write out everything for him and he will just have to read or he could wear a radio receiver and earpiece like Bush in the debates.
I wholeheartedly believe that Arabs do not have the market cornered on crime, by any stretch of the imagination. One need only look at the numbers in all the jails in the country to see a good picture of the nature of criminality.
Of course there is a criminal element in the Arab community, just as there is in any other culture.
Arabs are not inherently criminal, ghetto convenience stores are. Therein lies the problem. There are problems with operating a shop with one employee in a difficult neighborhood at 3 a.m. in the morning when you have booze, tobacco, and cash on the premises. I don't envy these operators.
Franklin Roosevelt, a Democrat, introduced the Social Security (FICA) Program. He promised:
1.) That participation in the Program would be completely voluntary,
2.) That the participants would only have to pay 1% of the first $1,400 of their annual incomes into the Program,
3.) That the money the participants elected to put into the Program would be deductible from their income for tax purposes each year,
4.) That the money the participants put into the independent "Trust Fund" rather than into the General operating fund, and therefore, would only be used to fund the Social Security Retirement Program, and no other ! Government program, and
5.) That the annuity payments to the retirees would never be taxed as income.
Since many of us have paid into FICA for years and are now receiving a Social Security check every month -- and then finding that we are getting taxed on 85% of the money we paid to the Federal government to "put away," you may be interested in the following:
Q: Which Political Party took Social Security from the independent ”Trust" fund and put it into the General fund so that Congress could spend it?
A: It was Lyndon Johnson and the democratically controlled House and Senate.
Q: Which Political Party eliminated the income tax deduction for Social Security (FICA) withholding?
A: The Democratic Party
Q: Which Political Party started taxing Social Security annuities?
A: The Democratic Party, with Al Gore casting the "tie-breaking" deciding vote as President of the Senate, while he was Vice President of the U.S.
Q: Which Political Party decided to start giving annuity payments to immigrants?
A: That's right! Jimmy Carter and the Democratic Party. Immigrants moved into this country, and at age 65, began to receive Social Security payments! The Democratic Party gave these payments to them, even though they never paid a dime into it!
Then, after doing all this lying and thieving and violation of the original contract (FICA), the Democrats turn around and tell you that the Republicans want to take your Social Security away!
And the worst part about it is, uninformed citizens believe it!
I don't see the problem. You have a republican congress and whitehouse and a packed supreme court. Eliminate social security or change it or exempt it. The republicans have the votes but lack the courage.
Any federal law, program or system that remains intact is permitted to exist by the Republicans. Put that in you expensive custom made imported 28 guage over-and-under quail gun and shoot it.
"Mission accomplished"!
Miss Bill do ya? Ah yes, I miss having my balls crushed in a vise too. Scumbag and scum queen are hopefully history and will never have to be repeated.
But of course, the question is, with a majority in both the house and senate, a "nuclear option" to stop filibuster, and a president that will sign anything that is bad for the elderly and/or poor, what is to stop the republicans from enacting the reforms that you think they want. The answer is that they realize that they rant all of this horseshit to make Pat Robertson and Dr. Dobson happy but they know their platform is lame and don't have the courage to enact any of that stuff. The GOP is in control so what is done or not done is to their credit or blame.
And the thing that "shot" in the Clinton Whitehouse didn't hurt anybody but the shooter and the dry cleaner.
Scarlett it ain't class envy, it's moral indignation. I bet that his fancy shotgun could buy 3 or 4 armored vests for the troops in Iraq. You republicans fly the flag and praise the lord but when our soldiers come home in that aluminum shipping container you look the other way. You must secretly hate yourself.
Sams is a true Republican. He is epitomy of everything the party stands for, but unlike the party cowards, Sams just says it. All the republicans should love the guy because he says what they are all thinking.
And if WJC hadn't been so concerned with Monica and decimating the military and giving away our secrets to China and North Korea, we wouldn't even be in this situation right now. Clinton failed miserably at protecting the country and now W has to do what Bubba should have done but hadn't the guts to do. War is a dirty business, and now it's being revealed that Saddam DID have a WMD program and he dumped much of it in Syria, Lebanon and other places before we went in.
Sorry to have gotten off the main topic of this blog, cenla politics.
Assume that you have a vague idea of what you're talking about and the previous administration let the military slide - just assume that is true for the sake of your argument.
What kind of dumbass would start a war on two military fronts, invade a country for no reason other than Cheney told you to and because you pretended there were WMDs there; and would leave this country without reasonable military manpower while Hamas and North Korea and Iran were poising to kick our ass. Take your blame.
You need not take my word for the argument, it's fact. One source is a book (presuming you read them) entitled "Dereliction of Duty", by Lt. Col. Robert "Buzz" Patterson, USAF (Ret). He carried the nuclear football for Bubba from 1996-1998. Foreword was written by Al Santoli, a noted foreign policy analyst. The book brings out some shocking facts about Bubba's scummy policies, especially how he did just as I stated in my previous post; decimated the military and gave away secrets to China and North Korea.
The second paragraph of your post makes no sense at all, so I won't even go there.
Paragraph 2 discusses the relative wisdom of starting two separate and independent invasions of hostile countries with the sort of deminished military resources you describe. Sound smart to you?
It had to be done and he did it. The wisdom of doing it with the bare essentials is the whole genius of it. True, mistakes have been made in the process, but the way it was done was sheer military genius. Ask any military expert without a bias. In fact, we could probably take on Iran right now if we absolutely had to. I have to think though, that Iran is not going to commit suicide by plowing ahead full steam on their present course.
I just heard on the news that the City Council wants to spend $600,000 of taxpayer money on Louis Marshall's rape trail that is being built along Bayou Rapides. This was supposed to be paid for by federal and state grants. NO city money was to be used. Have we heard that before?
Am I the only one outraged by this waste of our tax dollars? The city council has a complete disregard for the common working citizen. This would be a good one for Ned to veto. Maybe one of his advisors will tell him what to do.
You'd think that Ron Grant could devote some of his Bush hatred toward something he could actually do something about...our corrupt city officials! If he would devote 1/10 of his venom towards the city he could work wonders!!!!
We shall see if Brewer can handle the city attorney and the council on this $600,000 issue. Either she can and will or can't and won't.
Well, lets ke a look at it. Bush starts a war he can't finish, lies to the Americans and the UN about weapons of mass distruction and now sells our ports to the United Arab Emirates while waiving 911 in our face every second. Thousands of young Americans have been blown to shit for no apparent reason. We don't adequately equip them or support them.
On the other hand we have Charles F. Smith stoping an effective smoking ordinance.
Which one deserves attention?
Did anybody watch the council meeting tonite? Harry essentially told a citizen voicing a complaint to quite bitching and say nice things about the city. I heard he went to visit a neighborhood group, told them not to bother him with complaints, he does not micromanage, and told a subsequent meeting of another neighborhood group that the first group was a bunch of complainers. He was asked why no number or method of contacting him appears on the city's TV information channel or internet and he said to call somebody else and if they need him they can reach him. Rick! Come back!
Yes, take a look at it. Bush didn't lie to anyone. Saddam had WMD and USED them on his own people. The big mystery is what did he do with them and NOW it has been coming out that he transported them to foreign countries, i.e. Syria, Lebanon, etc. If you'd watch something other than the liberal biased media, you'd learn something other than the spoon-fed pap you're feeding on. We're going to win the war if people like you would stop bashing him at every turn.
Security on the port will NOT change in any way, so there's not really a worry there either.
Don't tell me about port security, tell all them left-wing commie pinko politicians like Bill Frist and Dennis Hastert. They obviously share the same concerns as I and the rest of the American people. You have listened to so much conservative talk radio that you brain is operating on AM frequency. And your abject ignorance is funny on the late night shows because they don't realize how dangerous your stupidity is. I almost get tired of making fun of you.
WMDs - are you still hoarding cans of tuna for Y2K?
Keep a very close eye on the snake's campaign finance reports. Its gonna open your eyes.
Dear Grip(e), you seem comforted in the fact that port security will not change. Do you know of any pundit or defense expert or national policy maker that believes that our port security is any more than a joke? All the predictions are that the "big one" will come unimpeded thru a major American port. And while somebody is Xraying your carry-on bag or electronically sniffing your shoes at the airport, shipping crates the size of the Jakes Bldg. are coming to our shores by the millions, unmonitored, unidentified, and unsafe.
The only possible advantage to our national security is that the arab terror-related communications will be easier to monitor if they are coming thru their corporate offices in Baltimore and New Orleans.
Why don't you do a google search of WMD use in Iraq. You're only pointing out your own ignorance.
I've listened to both sides of the port issue. Obviously, you haven't. We can't appear predjudiced in the eyes of the world on this issue. The UAE has been an ally in the war on terror and if we spoil this deal with them, it may make them wonder why they've been trying to help us.
1. If I don't point out my own ignorance, who will?
2. Why don't Frist and Hastert and Gingrich and Hillary have access to the same excellent information, intellegence, and insight that you obviously have at your fingertips?
1. If I don't point out my own ignorance, who will?
2. Why don't Frist and Hastert and Gingrich and Hillary have access to the same excellent information, intellegence, and insight that you obviously have at your fingertips?
Delores Brewer will be on KSYL radio tomorrow morning, so call in and ask some tough quesions.
Can we get back to local politics!?
THIS is an example of why CLECO can not be trusted. They have a NEW commercial where they come on and tell all the gullible customers that the reason YOUR Utility bill is HIGH is NOT their fault but caused because NATURAL GAS is at an all time high and going to stay that way....LIES....Natural gas has declined as per this EIA Natural Gas Weekly Update.....Not only are they liars they think we are stupid...just read:
Overview: Thursday, February 16 (next release 2:00 p.m. on February 23, 2006)
On the week the Henry Hub spot price declined 57 cents per MMBtu to $7.31. At the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX), prices for futures contracts also registered significant declines. The futures contract for March delivery, which is the last contract for the current heating season, declined 66.9 cents per MMBtu on the week to $7.066. Relatively high levels of natural gas in working storage and falling prices for competing fuels likely contributed to falling natural gas prices this week. Working gas in storage as of Friday, February 10, was 2,266 Bcf, which is 43.9 percent above the 5-year (2001-2005) average. The spot price for West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil decreased $4.90 per barrel on the week to $57.61, or $9.93 per MMBtu.
Why not call the Public Service Commission about this. I understand they are already investigating Cleco for charging more at the same time Natural Gas is going up. The Public Service Commission number is 1- 800-256 2397
It is interesting how the lines appear to be a lot clearer when it comes down to national politics ... tax-cuts for the rich (for whom else? Since the poor don't pay any damn taxes ...), port security (if the Arabs or the Brits, both long time allies, supervise the lack of security seems to be less than important - rather than trying to block a sale of private property our legislators should put their energy into tighter security requirements), and the Veep shooting lawyers (might get him elected president if he was to run) seem to inflame people a lot better than the antics of our local "leaders".
Personally I think we're better off directing the same passion to the local ongoings and leave the national politics to a national politics blog.
Now on a local level, it amazes me how ministers call for the boycott of businesses owned by a certain minority and the outrage is rather non-existent, where if the shoe was on the other foot (Arabs calling for the boycott of African-American stores), we'd have the Rev. Jessie Jackson himself decending from the heavens. It is the BS triple standard that pisses me off - soon we'll have robbers filling out information sheets before a victim can decide if they should shoot back, after all the number of robbers shot in a given period of time should reflect the racial makeup of the community - btw: I wonder if a robber could make a workman's comp claim if gets shot but not killed, it IS a work related injury after all.
Did we decide yet who is going to get their ass whipped by myron in the at-large race? As unorganized as the opposing forces seem to be I am starting to believe that Myron at-large and Fuller as mayor is a good possibility.
Am I trying to band people together by being a lightning rod? Yes, I'd rather draw my usual heat than listen to another snake comment ...
I saw Harry Silver on Ch. 4 and subsequently heard about his comments to and about District 4 neighborhood groups. That is why the neighborhood associations wanted Mark Lampert. He does stuff and listens. This time the council will have to accept the voter's wishes. Sweet.
Right now we don't have representation in District 4. Harry Silver is a go-along guy and is trying to unload his store building. With Lampert in Dist. 4, somebody new at large and a decent leader as mayor, we can really turn this thing arround.
We have to concentrate on the at-large seat. Dr. Slatkin may be the only one with the courage and the resources to take on Lawson so we need to rally behind him or else.
Roosevelt Johnson recently told an audience that the high utility rates were the fault of the administration, not the council. I hope that Delores addresses that issue and sets the record straight. She can't afford the utility bill heat if she is running for mayor. Does she have the guts to declare council responsibility? We will know tomorrow. Listen in.
I've listened to security experts, experts on port management and you've listened to parties who are more interested in their next elections. Hillary and all the other politicians are only ranting to their voters, "see I'm for security" as loud as they can yell. I trust W and his advisors to not jeopardize the country.
I agree with Maverick. The port you need to worry about is the wine CFS sells at his saloon on Lee Street for $2.65 a glass.
Conventional wisdom dictates that green eyes usually indicate envy. Does she want Ned's check without Ned's responsibility? Tune in.
What does Conventional wisdom say about a black eye?
That, of course, would depend on whether it was on a black or pink face.
Does anyone know anything about today's press conference regarding the Three Amigos. Surely someone is in the know. Or do we have to wait until the Town Talk or KALB tell us what happened?
Wow Scarlett! You and Delores are starting your own coven. If she kicks butt tomorrow I shall toast you with a glass of that $2 port.
Town Talk says that the dispute between the Three Amigos and the City is resolved. Bet they get their jobs, back pay, an apology, and a 75% discount on their utility bills if they live in the City (that would cost us nothing since they don't).
This means Jock Scott is no longer conflicted and will run for Mayor.
About what, Scarlett?
Former Alexandria employees receive $25,000 each
By Billy Gunn
bgunn@thetowntalk.com
Thats sure not much for a wrongful termination settlement. I understand that each of them gave up more than that in vacation and accrued benefits. So it might seem bad on first glance but it is very cheap to get them out of there
They were already out of here. The money is a payment for their silence. What were they going to tell us?
i would imagine if they had anything to tell they would have asked for more than that.
Granted this is a paltry sum when you figure that Jock gets a third leaving $50K less costs and expenses to divide by the Three Amigos. But why pay them anything? You are obviously right about they perceived value of their information. But if they were bad guys why not just tell them to go suck an egg. They can't push us arround. We have Brigit Brown!
So, according to the Town Talk, the Three Amigos are to be paid $25,000 apiece. Is that hush money, guilt money, "we overcharge electric bills so we have plenty of money" money, or what? Surely someone has a direct line to the true information?
Ask Ms. Brewer on talk radio tomorrow morning. Wonder what time?
This might be Ms. Brewer cleaning up all the old bullshit that plagued the 2nd floor. Good work. Unfortunately, she has unleashed the Jockster on the Mayor's Election and will have to share the intelligent WASP vote with him. Guess I better send Joe Fuller a potted plant or some candy.
The show begins at 7:30 so she will be on between then and 9 a.m.
Do you really think that the Amigos would have settled for $16K+ after being ridden out on a rail, humiliated, cut off from their livlihoods and income and shamed, if they had a case of anything but the red ass? Don't remember the wife talk.
Dear Civil - the answer is obviously no - besides the $25K less attorney fees and expenses, they also got fired, humiliated, unemployed, scape-goated, and tainted. Do you really think that Ned's declaration of no wrongdoing holds up under the fact that they were escorted off the premises by police - suspended without pay, without notice, without recourse, without explaination. Its sort of like the guy indicted for child molestation when the charges are ultimately dropped. In the public eye they are convicted.
And I don't claim political sophistication but I appear to be significantly more aware and informed than you. Lets see what you got . . .
Civil, quit being such a pussy. The only reason that we have a glimmer of what is going on is the Town Talk and that Gunn guy. Today they had that piece on the people devastated by the high utility rates with a cogent explaination or how it happened and who done it. I realize you think you are being provocative but you really don't have the social skill to get there. You just come off as a pussy.
Civil, quit being such a pussy. The only reason that we have a glimmer of what is going on is the Town Talk and that Gunn guy. Today they had that piece on the people devastated by the high utility rates with a cogent explaination or how it happened and who done it. I realize you think you are being provocative but you really don't have the social skill to get there. You just come off as a pussy.
ASS WAS SO NICE
HE SAID IT TWICE
Do you political neophytes realize how close Jock is to the snake? You guys better wake up and connect the dots before you go trying to recruit someone for mayor.
Unfortunately, I won't be in town to call in for Delores' radio appearance. I hope someone will ask her what Mayor Brewer's stance is regarding the Council's voting to spend $600,000 on Louis Marshall's rape trail. Does she favor it? As Chief of Staff, will she advise Ned to veto it? This answer will tell a lot about what type of mayor she would be.
Yes we realize it oh rumor monger - the answer is "NOT VERY". Jock has been the council's greatest (and perhaps, only) challenge. We would be damn lucky to get Dr. Jock Scott as our mayor (or governor). If you suggest some affiliation between Jock and Myron you are a moron or a lier (or both).
You all want to know what the real truth is with the three amigos...well here it is:
NO depositions taken in this case. City agreed to settle because they did not want the depositions and the truth to get out. The three amigos were in this to get their names cleared and NOT to rape the city (way too much of that going on already). The money was token the exoneration was the goal. So what did we all miss from depositions:
1.Ned is of diminished capacity due to illness that continues to progress.
2.Albin Provosty fabricated alegations against the three to get Ned to fire them.
3.Deb is too worried about where her families next paycheck will come from to do the right thing by her husband.
4.Delores is only worried about Delores and her campaign for Mayor.
5.Ken is just in for the ride and his $70/hour paycheck.
....so where does this leave Ned? - surrounded by this cast of characters who really love and care about him! POOR NED!!!!!
Here is the deal on Marshall's Bayou Rapides Trail. Louis wants it but the Administration doesn't. They don't have the balls or the clout to tell him no. He will play his "poor constituent" race card if they do. They decided to "leak" this to the press via Ken Juneau with the hope that the public will raise hell about the 600k and kill the whole idea. Problem solved.
Questions: Why would Albin make up stuff to get the Amigos fired? Who considers this exhonoration? The council, not Albin or the administration, wanted the Amigos gone and CFS told people publically that they were going to be run off weeks before it hit the fan.
I don't see this as answering or explaining anything and the only person who benefits from this being over (and I doubt it's over) is Delores. I saw Charlie Weems at the press conference. He got Betty Cox over a million bucks for wrongful termination that was not nearly as aggregious this this one.
Jock Scott would have all these ruthless people in the slammer within his first 4 years.
In answer to the last comment regarding the Marshall rape trail ... That's a good theory except the public is NOT raising hell. The public NEVER raises hell. The only complainers are people who use this blog site -- and they are anonymous!
I just read the TT's story on the 3 amigos. Ned said he fired them (on the day a hurricane was bearing down on us) because he wanted to go in a different direction. If that was the case, why didn't he have the decency to tell these gentlemen the reason they were being put out to pasture? Maybe someone can ask Delores on the radio today? I'll be traveling, but I'll tune in to hear her answer.
Albin had to come up with a reason to fire the three or Ned would have never done it. Albin knew it would take alegations of wrongdoing to get Ned to fire them. Albin is the mole working with/for Myron and company. Who knows, he may have some legal problems in the future over all this!
Ms. Brewer put the utility bill problem firmly on the council's back. I appreciate her courage and candor. The discussions on the Three Amigos were complete BS and an insult to listeners. No questions about the lawyers, consultants, and Marshall's Folley ($600,000 walking trail along Bayou Rapides) but be encouraged by the administration's obstruction of the Patel hotel lease extension. Somebody is finally looking.
Ms. Brewer did mention that the city's business with the Amigos was over but there may be some "State" action (which I assume means "criminal") against the Amigos. Interesting
I had never heard Brewer before but after listening to her am very impressed. She seems to know what she is talking about and is not afraid to say "im sorry" and "ill get on it" when callers had complaints. I somewhat understand that she is in between a rock and a hard place and probably can not criticize the current administration but it seemed clear that she had other ideas . As of today I am very much leaning towards Brewer as our next Mayor....
Some of you need to check the records before you speak dumbasses. Who does the snake hire as his lawyer when he needs one? Hint: its his very close friend and its not BB.
Here is an even bigger question. How can Provosty represent the City of Alexandria, The Parish of Rapides AND the England Authority AND CLECO ..C L E C O ....and Individual board members from each.....and not have any conflicts both in principle and in law? Didn't their firm get cited for that by the Ethics panel for just such conflicts ? Yet they continue.
Here's a question. Why didn't all you people with your "tough" questions now, call in this morning!? I heard very few tough questions after all this lip service on here. Holy shit people!
Here it is. Why was this never reported in the Town Talk?
LOUISIANA BOARD OF ETHICS
DATED: October 14, 2004 OPINION NO: 2003-109
RE: In the matter of Provosty, Sadler, DeLaunay, Fiorenza & Sobel, APC
The Louisiana Board of Ethics (the “Board”) pursuant to the authority contained in LSA-R.S. 42:1141, conducted a private investigation concerning information that the law firm of Provosty, Sadler, DeLaunay, Fiorenza & Sobel, APC may have violated provisions of the Code of Governmental Ethics (LSA-R.S. 42:1101 et seq.) (the “Code”) by providing compensated services to Cleco at a time when Cleco, through its subsidiary, was seeking to terminate a lease with the England Economic and Industrial Development District (the “England Authority”) and when the law firm served as the legal counsel for the District.
On the basis of information obtained by the Board during the course of this investigation and with the consent of Provosty, Sadler, DeLaunay, Fiorenza & Sobel, APC, the Board now makes the following essential:
I.
FINDINGS OF FACT
1.
Provosty, Sadler, DeLaunay, Fiorenza & Sobel, APC (“the Provosty Law Firm”) served as general counsel to the England Authority at all pertinent times pursuant to a contract for professional legal services. The Provosty Law Firm provides general legal services to the England Authority. Most of these legal services were provided by Albin Provosty, a stock holder in the Provosty Law Firm.
2.
The Provosty Law Firm also provides legal services and representation to Cleco Corporation on a matter-by-matter basis at the request of Cleco.
3.
At times pertinent, Cleco Corporation owned several subsidiary companies, one of which is Cleco Services, L.L.C. Cleco Services, L.L.C. entered into a sublease with the England Authority in 1998 by virtue of which Cleco Services, L.L.C. leased a building owned by the England Authority. The term of the sublease was from January 1, 1999 to December 31, 2003. Cleco Services, L.L.C. changed its name during the term of the sublease to UtiliTech Solutions and then to UTS, L.L.C. The Provosty Law Firm has never provided legal services to UTS, L.L.C.
4.
On October 16, 2001, Michael Joseph, President of UTS, L.L.C. via correspondence to the England Authority requested an early termination of the sublease between the two parties.
5.
On October 18, 2001, a copy of the correspondence referred to above was transmitted to Albin Provosty. On October 22, 2001, Mr. Provosty, as counsel for the England Authority, submitted a written reply to the England Authority in which he wrote, among other things, that “ . . . there are no legal impediments to an early termination of the sublease . . .”
6.
All negotiations relative to the terms and conditions of the mutual termination were conducted between the England Authority’s Director of Economic Development and officers of UTS, L.L.C. Mr. Provosty did not take part in the negotiations.
7.
On October 26, 2001, the Chair of the England Authority Legal Committee wrote a letter to Mr. Provosty asking if there was a conflict of interest under the Rules of Professional Responsibility in him advising “. . . the England Authority with respect to an legal impairment to an early termination of the lease . . .”
8.
Mr. Provosty subsequently informed the England Authority that under it policy concerning conflicts it should appoint conflict counsel to handle the matter.
9.
Thereafter, on November 15, 2001, the England Authority, passed a resolution appointing conflict counsel to prepare correspondence to the Attorney General concerning the propriety of early termination of subleases.
10.
On November 30, 2001, Albin Provosty transmitted correspondence to conflict counsel enclosing prior research containing his views on the legal issues involved in early termination of leases and requesting to review a copy of the draft of the letter to the Attorney General prior to its mailing. A draft of the letter was faxed to Mr. Provosty’s attention on December 13, 2001 by Michael Joseph who had obtained a copy of the letter from the England Authority. If called to testify, Mr. Provosty would state that he did not attempt to influence the manner in which conflict counsel posed the letter requesting an opinion from the Attorney General.
11.
Subsequently, the England Authority Board voted not to request an opinion from the Attorney General and directed conflict counsel to prepare legal documents necessary to accomplish a mutual termination of the sublease pursuant to the terms and conditions negotiated by England Authority staff and representatives of UTS, L.L.C.
12.
On February 8, 2002, conflict counsel sent a copy of a draft of the mutual termination agreement to the Chair of the Legal Committee and to Albin Provosty and requested that they review the mutual termination agreement. On February 11, 2002, Mr. Provosty wrote a letter to conflict counsel declining “. . . to comment on the document. . .”
13.
Any fees for services provided by the England Authority by the Provosty Law Firm in connection with the issue involving the termination of the lease were waived by the law firm.
14.
During all pertinent times, the Provosty Firm provided compensated legal services to Cleco on matters unrelated to the termination of the sublease with the England Authority.
15.
On February 12, 2002, conflict counsel forwarded the final draft of “agreement to terminate sublease,” which was subsequently approved by the England Authority.
II.
APPLICABLE LAW
At issue in this case is Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code of Governmental Ethics. Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code prohibits a public servant from receiving compensation for services rendered to persons referenced in Section 1115 of the Code. Section 1111C(2)(d) provides:
C. No public servant and no legal entity in which the public servant exercises control or owns an interest in excess of twenty-five percent, shall receive any thing of economic value for or in consideration of services rendered, or to be rendered, to or for any person during his public service unless such services are:
* * *
(d) neither performed for nor compensated by any person from whom such public servant would be prohibited by R.S. 42:1115A(1) or (B) from receiving a gift.
The pertinent portion of Section 1115 provides:
A. No public servant shall solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, any thing of economic value as a gift or gratuity from any person or from any officer, director, agent, or employee of such person, if such public servant knows or reasonably should know that such person:
(1) Has or is seeking to obtain contractual or other business or financial relationships with the public servant’s agency . . .
* * *
B. No public employee shall solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, anything of economic value as a gift or gratuity from any person or from any officer, director, agent, or employee of such person, if such public employee knows or reasonably should know that such person:
(1) Conducts operations or activities which are regulated by the public employee's agency.
(2) Has substantial economic interests which may be substantially affected by the performance or nonperformance of the public employee's official duty.
Also, Section 1112 of the Code prohibits a public servant from participating in certain transactions and provides in pertinent part:
1112. Participation in certain transactions involving the governmental entity
* * *
B. No public servant, except as provided in R.S. 42:1120, shall participate in a transaction involving the governmental entity in which, to his actual knowledge, any of the following persons has a substantial economic interest:
* * *
(3) Any person of which he is an officer, director, trustee, partner, or employee.
(4) Any person with whom he is negotiating or has an arrangement concerning prospective employment.
(5) Any person who is a party to an existing contract with such public servant, or with any legal entity in which the public servant exercises control or owns an interest in excess of twenty-five percent, or who owes any thing of economic value to such public servant, or to any legal entity in which the public servant exercises control or owns an interest in excess of twenty-five percent, and who by reason thereof is in a position to affect directly the economic interests of such public servant.
The following terms are defined in Section 1102 of the Code and are relevant when analyzing the above Sections:
(15) “Participate” means to take part in or to have or share responsibility for action of a governmental entity or a proceeding, personally, as a public servant of the governmental entity, through approval, disapproval, decision, recommendation, the rendering of advice, investigation, or the failure to act or perform a duty.
(18) “Public employee” means anyone, whether compensated or not, who is:
* * *
(c) Engaged in the performance of a governmental function.
(d) Under the supervision or authority of an elected official or another employee of the governmental entity. . .
(19) “Public servant” means a public employee or an elected official.
(22)(a) “Thing of economic value” means money or any other thing having economic value, except promotional items having no substantial resale value; food, drink, or refreshments consumed by a public servant, including reasonable transportation and entertainment incidental thereto, while the personal guest of some person, . . .
III.
OPINION
It is the opinion of the Board that Albin Provosty is a public servant of the England Authority and that the Provosty Law Firm violated Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code by receiving compensation for providing legal services to Cleco at a time when Cleco, through a subsidiary, was seeking to terminate its sublease with the England Authority and while the Provosty Law Firm rendered advice to the England Authority in connection with the termination of the sublease of UTS, L.L.C, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cleco. Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code prohibits a public servant from receiving a thing of economic value for services rendered to or for a person who has or is seeking to have a contractual, business or financial relationship with the public servant’s agency or a person who has an economic interest that can be affected by the performance or nonperformance of the public servant’s duties. The Supreme Court in Glazer v. Commission on Ethics for Public Employees, 431 So.2d 752, 756 (La. 1983) analyzed the prohibition inherent in Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code in the following, to wit:
The prohibited conflict of interest situation involved in this case is one in which the public servant receives private compensation from persons having business with his public agency for services rendered by the servant to that person outside the servant's regular government employment. The danger in the conflict, of course, is that the public servant's official dealings with the person may be unduly influenced contrary to the public interest by the public servant's receipt of private compensation from the same person. The danger exists even if the public servant actually performs bonafide services for his outside income. Accordingly, The Code of Ethics for Governmental Employees specifically prohibits any public servant from receiving anything of economic value for or in consideration of services rendered to or for any person if such public servant knows or reasonably should know that such person has or is seeking to obtain contractual or other business or financial relationships with the public servant's agency. La.R.S. 42:1111(C)(2); 42:1115(A). Id. at 756.
As counsel for the England Authority, the Provosty Law Firm is a public servant. UTS, L.L.C., a subsidiary of Cleco had a substantial economic interest in the early termination of the sublease. The Provosty Law Firm, as counsel for the England Authority, initially participated in matters involving the early termination of the sublease of Cleco’s wholly-owned subsidiary UTS, L.L.C. Therefore, the Provosty Law Firm violated Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code by virtue of its representation of Cleco in unrelated matters, at a time when the law firm participated in matters involving the early termination of the sublease. The Board recognizes that Mr. Provosty and the Provosty Law Firm authored correspondence withdrawing from the early termination issue and that the matter was referred to a conflict counsel.
Also, it appears that Albin Provosty violated Section 1112B by participating in a transaction in which Cleco’s subsidiary UTS, L.L.C had a substantial economic interest, by virtue of his initial participation and advice given to the England Authority with respect to the propriety of the early termination of the sublease at a time when the Provosty Law Firm provided compensated legal services and representation to Cleco.
In this particular situation, given the facts outlined above, and the fact that although Albin Provosty initially participated in advising the England Authority on early termination of the sublease, he subsequently withdrew as counsel in the matter when the issue of conflicts of interest was brought to his attention by the Chair of the England Authority Legal Committee, it is the conclusion of the Board that no interest would be served by the imposition of a pecuniary fine.
IV.
DECREE AND ORDER
For the forgoing reasons:
IT IS ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED that the Board finds as a matter of fact and as a conclusion of law that the Provosty Law Firm violated Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Code of Governmental Ethics, at a time when it served as the counsel for the England Authority with respect to the termination of a sublease between the England Authority and a subsidiary of Cleco and the Provosty Law Firm received compensation for representing Cleco in unrelated matters.
IT IS ORDERED, ADJUDGED AND DECREED that the Board finds as a matter of fact and as a conclusion of law that the Albin Provosty, in his capacity as counsel for the England Authority, violated Section 1112B of the Code of Governmental Ethics, by rendering advice and making a recommendation to the England Authority with respect to the early termination of a sublease between a subsidiary of Cleco and the England Authority, at a time when the Provosty Law Firm provided legal services and representation to Cleco in unrelated matters.
By Order of the Board this 14th day of October, 2004.
s/Robert L. Roland s/T. O. Perry, Jr.
Robert L. Roland, Chairman T. O. Perry, Jr., Vice-Chairman
s/John W. Greene s/E. L. Guidry, Jr.
Judge John W. Greene Judge E. L. Guidry, Jr.
s/R. L. Hargrove, Jr. s/Michael J. Kantrow, Sr.
R. L. Hargrove, Jr. Michael J. Kantrow, Sr.
s/Joseph Maselli Absent and did not participate
Joseph Maselli Henry C. Perret, Jr.
Absent and did not participate s/Dolores Spikes
Ascension Delgado Smith Dr. Dolores Spikes
s/Edwin O. Ware
Edwin O. Ware
CONSENT
The undersigned (a) stipulates to the facts found by the Board; (b) waives the procedural requirements contained in Section 1141 of the Code; (c) admits that its conduct, as described above, violated Section 1111C(2)(d) of the Louisiana Code of Governmental Ethics; (d) consents to the publication of this letter; (e) agrees to comply with the conditions and orders set forth in this opinion; and, (f) agrees not to seek judicial review of the findings and actions taken in this opinion.
s/William H. DeLaunay 8/26/04
Authorized Representative of Date
Provosty, Sadler, DeLaunay,
Fiorenza & Sobel, APC
The undersigned (a) stipulates to the facts found by the Board; (b) waives the procedural requirements contained in Section 1141 of the Code; (c) admits that his conduct, as described above, violated Section 1112B of the Louisiana Code of Governmental Ethics; (d) consents to the publication of this letter; (e) agrees to comply with the conditions and orders set forth in this opinion; and, (f) agrees not to seek judicial review of the findings and actions taken in this opinion.
s/Albin Provosty 8/25/04
Albin Provosty Date
...........................
Wooooooooooooo...so you mean to tell me that the same lawyer that represents CLECO also represents the city at a time when their are issues as to whether Cleco screwed the City? Is this true? Unbelievable!!!!
I did not know about that Provosty conflict opinion. I do remember when Albin represented the England Authority against John Grafton and John Grafton against the England Autority. Hank Bruser, a prominent local attorney then on the England Authority tried to point that out but, for some reason, nobody would listen.
I apologize for my ignorance, I thought that Provosty was the good guy here. Provosty + Myron + Kelvin = treachery?
Damn! I heard that the Provosty Firm used to "rent" law office space and services to Ned. P U!
Is it likely that Delores would make changes in her legal/advisory/consultation staff? Not very.
I think she will have to. I suspect the counsil and the england authority already are wanting to make changes in this respect.
Lets make sure we have the full list. Provosty represents 1) city of alexandria, 2) England authority 3) Rapides Parish sheriffs office 4) Rapides Parish police Jury 5) Greater Alexandria Development District or Gada. 6) CLECO!!!
HOW can one group serve so many masters and NOT have conflicts? And why should they?
No shit!
Dear Billy Gunn:
I am the person that has been consistently kissing your ass and sticking up for the Town Talk. The Provosty Firm used to represent the Town Talk when it was the Joe D. Smith/Guaranty Bank cabal but I don't know if they still do or not. I know that your paper would not run Provosty kid DWI arrests and similar minor transgressions. I hope that is changed. Please do something with this information. I was comforted by the fact that Albin was guarding the chicken coop and now they say he is Col. Sanders.
Seriously , how can one law firm represent all those and not have conflicts of interest on lots of issues. And throw in the fact that they represent individual members of each group AND Cleco and you have to wonder a) how they can represent the interest ONLY of one client b) why the client would want to hire a firm with such potential conflicts of interests.
Check the donor lists on these public officials and it may shed some light on the Provosty Mystique.
Call me crazy but I consider serving as a major in the sheriff's dept AND serving on the city council is a conflict of interest. And we have that in CFS.
Deja Vu -I now recall that our brand spanking new sheriff Hilton, in his first term, was going to hire his brother-in-law, Rocky Willson (damn good lawyer) and some others as his legal council and the committment was already made when the Provosty Firm layed $3000 on William Earl. Cash trumped family in that case.
It would appear that once you buy the public official, the folks who are regulated by those officials will naturally follow.
My stomach is starting to hurt.
Deja Vu -I now recall that our brand spanking new sheriff Hilton, in his first term, was going to hire his brother-in-law, Rocky Willson (damn good lawyer) and some others as his legal council and the committment was already made when the Provosty Firm layed $3000 on William Earl. Cash trumped family in that case.
It would appear that once you buy the public official, the folks who are regulated by those officials will naturally follow.
My stomach is starting to hurt.
All these damned concerns expressed here and not but a few damned calls this a.m. I can't EVEN believe it!
Pressing the button ONCE so I don't double post, it's not that hard folks.
#1 Asskisser speaks the truth about the Town Talk - you may verify this thru Jim Leggett
#2 Precisely what burning question did you pose to Ms. Brewer this morning. I gotta tell ya, your hostile postings have all of the telltale earmarks of a coward. Hope to see your name on a ballot.
Did you call in?
Did you call in?
NO, you didn't so don't lecture the rest of us.
I am fortunate enough not to live inside the city of Alexandria so I figured I'd allow those of you who do to call in with your concerns. Sounds as if you're the ones who want to have the status quo.
Actually, I got all of my burning questions answered. The stuff about Provosty was unknown to me until after the broadcast but Brewer would have hardly been the one to answer that. The big question I had was how Brewer would handle herself and would she have the courage to put the rightful blame for the outrageous utility bills firmly on the council and SHE DID. I shall but her sign in my yard with pride and anticipation.
The only questions that went unanswered were the ones that you were too sheepish or lazy (I'm betting "sheepish") to ask. Civil, is that your precious self being provocative again. You little devil.
Interesting comments at
"http://www.thetowntalk.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060223/NEWS01/60223005"
One need only look at the current commercial Cleco is running to get a taste of the FRAUD and MISINFORMATION that Cleco is willing to feed the public. In the commercial Cleco VP says that our bills are higher because natural gas is at an all time high and is likely to remain high. FALSE! Facts are that Natural gas has declined since Novemenber and continues to drop daily. The commercial , which according to KALB staff is a NEW commercial , is nothing short of a LIE. SHAME on everyone at CLECO who allows this type of lying to be told to the public while going into our money to take more. $41 million profit does that sound like a company who is Having to raise rates? Why are we forced into having to buy our utilities from this monopoly?
According to Brewer this morning, the blame for higher electric bills rests squarely with the council. For this they should NOT be rewarded with reelection. Sadly though, you get what you pay for in officials. They screw you and then you go reelect them!
What I still can't seem to understand is why if the three amigos were simply let go as the administration says to "go in another direction" why are they due money? People are fired every day in the marketplace without monetary reward via lawsuit. Is this going to set a precedent???
Perhaps the reason it doesn't make sense is because it ain't true. Do responsible people:
a) fire people instantly, without reason or explaination, or advance warning or notice ? or
b) Give people $75,000 of public moneys for no reason or justification?
There is no way that an intelligent thoughtful reasonable person could answer either of these questions in the affirmative.
The real question is: does Randolph, et al, owe us a truthful and complete explaination? After all, it is our $75,000.00.
We wouldn't give any money to the Boys & Girls Clubs to help children but we will dump a barrel full on our favorite white folks without reason because they are our favorite white folks.
I'm a white folk. Where do I apply?
I see where the Town Talk honored that great American example of law enforcement excellence and democratic process: CHARLES FREDERICK SMITH.
"He helps others and helps himself." Yep
The $75K to the dismissed employee was just part of what the city has invested in this fiasco...attorney fees for this case are $100K+...the time of all the contract consultants (Ken Juneau @ $70/hr and of course Albin Provosty @$100+/hr)to develop spin and more BS...TOTAL TAB = PRICELESS...and for what?...to protect the reputation of our Mayor who is sick and incompetent in office!
SCOOP:
Hot off the press - I just heard from an insider at City Hall. One of the "nasty" wives showed up in the Mayor's office yesterday morning for the press conference. Delores cancelled the press conference and rescheduled for pm. When the "nasty" wife showed up again, she was told she could not attend. I guess the public is not allowed to hear information the Mayor calls the Press to come and make public??!!?? The best part is Delores had two undercover cops at City Hall to make sure the "nasty" wife did not get in. So be sure to add these city resources to the taxpayer's tab on this deal!
Did you see this morning's posts about the Provosty firm? All this time I thought I was smelling the paper mill.
i want ANYONE who knows to refute ANY of the items listed as fact about the Provosty lawfirm. HERE is a chance to set the record straight if any of it is not accurate. ANY of it. I will be interested to see if anyone contradicts any of the information. Was the ruling from the Ethics committee accurate? Did anyone look it up ? Has anyone ever read anything like that in the Town Talk? What is different from them representing England Authority while representing Cleco and representing the City of Alexandria while representing CLECO? What is the difference. Anyone with factual information , not opinions, please respond. Certainly someone from that big firm reads this so this is YOUR chance to explain the facts and if there are any special circumstances that make the representation of the City of Alexandria and CLECO not a conflict you can spell them out here. Please enlighten us.
How the hell did Hillary Randolph get so much power. Ned always surrounded himself with strong women who eventually kicked his ass.
NITA is with us!
Historically, they kicked his ass but shared their own.
Billy Gunn....where are you !?!!!?!?!?!? Its like picking up spare change. Has Sheila Jackson got you chained? I mean why move her adoration for Charles Frederick from the front page to put real stories in the Newspaper. You know when we will know that the paper is controlled by Ms Jackson? When they highlight Bridgett....i feel it coming.
But who do you think will handle the suit..or defend it ..or do you think the same firm will do BOTH?
Look nothing wrong with one Stop service. I mean, I can go to one lawyer to handle writing a lease for my Hotel business and then another atty in the sam LAWFIRM can represent the city and reviews the lease to see if it is a good idea to sign and both attys working for two different clients can bill their respective clients and get paid. Whats wrong with that? Imagine all the postage they save their clients.
I really take offense to the "Hillary Randolph" comment. Hillary (like her or not) has a LOT more gray matter!
All of these comments are interesting. Some of them are even true. It's amazing how many of these experts have no clue as to what the truth is.
Some points to ponder:
1) The entire City Council is not responsible for the outrageous utility prices -- only 5 councilman voted to screw us.
2) Ned could have vetoed the council ordinance. There were enough votes to sustain his veto. He knew it and I know it.
3) I guess Delores and Crutchfield were representing the Mayor on today's radio program. Wouldn't it have been nice if the Mayor would have awakened early enough to be there himself?
4) Yes, Provosty represents all the entities mentioned previously (and more). He also "rented" office space to Ned. Why did Ned need another office outside City Hall? I wonder if Ned can produce a cancelled rent check?
5) Doesn't anybody remember who one of the stars in Myron's TV commercial was? Why it was Al Provosty himself? Imagine that?
You damn right JB! and to coin your phrase: "Ain't it Rich!"
I'll be with Fuller. He makes the snake, CFS, the 100 City lawyers and the bluebloods nervous as hell. I like it! He is the only one with enough political capital to clean house.
Fuller has his own house to clean. But honestly if any of those democrats were to run for Mayor ...Please dont throw me in that briar patch..!!!..GIVE US FULLER.....It might be the ONLY way we can get an intellegent person elected.....so..Im all for your one man campaign to promote Fuller.....WE WANT FULLER!!!!
Keep joking and underestimating Fuller. A powerful State Rep. decided to beat Fuller a couple of years ago. He poured thousands of dollars into the campaign of Fullers well known and well liked opponent. Fuller spent zero dollars, knocked on zero doors and never ask for one vote. On election day, Fuller recieved almost 80% of the vote. His people know him and love him. He is very capable. He will probably have the Sheriff, assessor, DA, most of the police jurymen, most white democrats, 85% of the black vote and plenty of money. You beat that equation buddy.
Which councilmen are responsible for the utility rate screw?
WEll sounds like you ARE a Fuller man. He is an idiot and has only run for Police Jury. I hope he runs. More scrutiny by all the people will dump him like perhaps you on the waste pile of self adoring losers. I pray Fuller is the choice. He will most positively guarantee that Brewer will win. Better yet Maybe Fuller AND CFS will run. Eat each other alive and then get swallowed by the White candidate in the runoff. Cuz ya sees there aints gonna be as many MONEY races out there kingfish to get Fullers votes to da polls in a runoff. So keep on praisen and promotin ...Every vote for the Fullerman is a vote to get Brewer elected. See da lever...Pull er for Ful ler.
Has anyone figured out which direction Ned is going in or is he just wondering around aimlessly? Delores, what and/or where is the NEW direction?
It's easier to name the Councilmen who DIDN'T screw you with higher utility rates. Chuck Fowler waged a valiant effort to lock in favorable gas rates. Chuck was chairman of the Utilities Committee. He was outvoted 2-1 by Hobbs and Marshall, They were under orders from Smith and Lawson who were trying to steer the business to their friends William Barron and Jeff Richardson.
Rick Ranson gave the five brothers hell privately and publicly and predicted the now infamous rates we are all experiencing.
Ironically, had Ned taken a stand, Roosevelt would have sided with Ranson and Fowler. Instead, he stayed with the brothers and today we are all feeling the effects of that decision.
There is bound to be a tape, transcript or minutes of that meeting. Someone should produce it and hammer Hobbs with it now. If someone reasonable could be found to run in Hobb's district it would eliminate an absolute moron, yes man, and CFS puppet and show that there are hazards associated with doing Lawson and Smith's bidding. Either we change Dist. 2 representation now or reward Hobbs with 2 more years. Marshall is actually on the Patel payroll. He is ripe for some serious political consequence.
If the utility bills could be firmly hung on Hobbs, Lawson, and Smith, they would not survive politically.
And the Brewer fan is fantasizing about the wrong combination. Instead of Brewer versus Fuller and Smith, howabout Brewer and Sams and Noles and Silver vs. Joe Fuller?? That is a far more likely Sept. ballot. That means that Brewer will be going home with Ned and Hillary.
You don't need a transcript. It's all captured on video during the Utility Committee meeting. I'm sure the City Clerk can produce it. Chuck Fowler will remember it. It was reported in the TT and no one paid any attention to it.
Perhaps, we SHOULD pay attention to what's happening and act on things WHEN they happen - not bitch about them when it's too late.
My point is, that if this occurance will show Hobbs constiuents that he left them in this lurch, he will be replace with someone that will be forwarned of the consequences of this kind of self-serving conduct. This is an issue that touches everyone and affects all. Many of the people in Dist. 2 will have to sacrifice much of their quality of life because of Hobb's actions. If Hobbs is not held to account for his deeds his selfishness is reinforced and the bad machine remains intact. You can't go back and buy the gas at the cheaper price but you can put the blame where it belongs.
Dist. 2 includes Horseshoe Drive, Martin Park, Deerfield, and a lot of places that could produce a viable candidate to take on Hobbs and if Hobbs is tied up in his own contest, he won't be in a position to try to protect his fearless leader. A strong candidate for Dist. 2 could be the key.
Also include Courtland Place and some other high $$ property so there are folks that are interested in protecting their value.
Look folks...If you want to find out the real scoop on the Council activities you have to go to the committee meetings. Watch them run around like little chickens with their heads cut off, huddled up in corners and closets making their little deals. Everything happens in there and its all settled and done before the full council meets. Just show up about 2:30 on council tuesdays and observe.
We are told that a lot of the business happens at the CFS Saloon after the meetings. The Town Talk knows about this sunshine infraction but, for some reason, protects it. I guess they just don't like secrets from THEM.
i know said:
You left one out of the GAS RAT PACK working on and with Myron and brothers - William Barron and Jeff Richardson's buddy Jeff Courtney. He won't forget his piece of the take!
For some reason we waste a ton of time dwelling on past wrongs instead of trying to put the city back together again. There will always be the Gas Rat Pack and others that will create opportunities to profit at the expense the taxpayers but cannot succeed without greedy public servants willing to sell out the people. These same profiteer names keep cropping up. It is just unfortunate that they can find lots of cracks in the council ethics to crawl through. No wonder Rick left.
Lets stop with the autopsies and fix it.
Here is the troubling part. Did the mayor participate, who knows, BUT he and his staff and his lawyers had to know about it and they had/have a legal duty to the people (and in the case of Ned and the other lawyers, to the Louisiana Supreme Court) to report it and inform their clients, the victims, of this stuff.
It just defies logic and reason to say that the administration and it's extended staff were not completely aware of this kind of bullshit. Now Delores says "trust me".
Have you ever been in the BACK ROOM aka snack room behind the committee room at a counsil meeting. Table full of food. I am told this is donated by local VENDORS. THIS is in violation of ethics laws. If they are paying for it then its a violation of TRUST and a waste or our tax dollars. Someone from the city explain. We know you are watching and or participating in this blog......
aaa..but its those who enjoy the carrot sticks who make it that way...and it is the snaking on the apple that got Adam removed from the garden....thinks abouts that bro.
You are worried about carrot sticks when people can't keep their homes and families warm and safe? Just think about that a minute.
as long as you understand that the apple was not the problem . . .
The food at council meeting is NOT donated. It is paid for with your tax dollars. CFS started the every meeting feast when he became president. City officials do know the shenanigans going on with the council. That's why they ran off the three amigos - the three did not play the game and put up road blocks everywhere possible. Ned is no threat in his current compromised condition. Delores has never been a threat - proof is she is still there. She fell as hard as Ned did for the scam that ousted the amigos (and she doesn't have a debilitating condition to excuse her ignorance).
I think the councilmen are paid about $300 per month which probably doesn't cover their cell phone bills. If they want a snack or cup of coffee I don't mind.
These aint snacks friend. It would be a full meal for some of the poor people of Alexandria who can not even afford the basics due to idiot decisions by this Counsil that have allowed Cleco to rape the citizens of Alex and allowed the gas rates to be passed on to the rate payers when lower rates could have been secured.
And their Symbol of importance CELL PHONE That they keeep put up to their ears like a rap star wears gold chains aint cuttin too much impression on my overtaxed underserved overly pissed off self either.
Screw this Democrat/ Republican talk.....I hearby announce the formation of the KMAC WWAC (pronounced "cmack wac")Party......Kiss My Ass CAUSE WE WANT a CHANGE Party
Does anybody know what the councilmen are paid (legally) for their untiring service and unwaivering dedication to the city. The Charter says $300 but I doubt they would let that stand. Please somebody who knows.**
**excluding carrot sticks and bribes
LET THEM EAT CAKE.
Council members make $1,500 per month and are eligible for city health insurance benefits.
OK, then they should furnish their own carrot sticks. Didn't know they got health insurance - is it thru State Farm?
Ok...well Billy WHERE ARE YOU??...Is not ANY of this News? Or are you being controlled by tne 21century Masser.....Sheila Jackson?
Release the truth from the bonds of oppression and greed and free the doves of information to greet the honesty of the morning so that MY people of ALL races can live in harmony and honesty and enjoy the fruits of their honorable lives such that God can look down upon those who have assended unto earthy throes and throw down the rath upon those unrightous demons of greed and dishonesty so that never more shall those in power feast amd live fat lives at the banquet table of the hard working people of Alexandria....(maybe if we talk their language it will make sense to em.. )..cant hurt.
May you jump down
spin arround
and pick a bale 0 cotten
No Billy, do the Provosty thing. That really sux!
do Sheila = Shuwanda?
one and the same and evidently editorial and journalistic integrity is trumped by a boss who has an agenda......
WHAT exactly is Charles Fredericks official job title and job duties with the Sheriffs office? Seriously what do they say he does?
Isnt being a deputy and an elected official a) contrary to state law as a "dual " office holder b) a conflict since the Sheriff has contracts with the City of Alex? And while we are at it....How can Bridgett Brown have a contract WITH the City of Alexandria as an atty and at the SAME time vote on issues involving contracts with the City of Alexandria as a Commissioner on the England Authority? ..Is not this much worse than what Chuck Fowler just got into trouble on ? Seriously ..
Hey Billy...how bout them questions?...Want us to write the story and you just put your name on the top of it?...Geeeez....maybe they got a garden club meeting to report on or better yet...I think they are gonna sweep a street on main street of Pineville for the Cleanest city contest...think we can get a front page story on that groundbreaking news?.....
How dare you impugn the independence of reporter Gunn!
I happen to know that Billy Gunn is none other than the youngest son of that famous 60's detective, Peter Gunn.
He is very wealthy, used to be an international playboy, and keeps a polo pony on the levy behind McCormick Printing.
"He don't need no stinkin' Town Talk"
I asked the question yesterday about the conflict of interest with CFS being on the sheriff's dept AND on the city council but never got an answer. Why doesn't the Attorney General get involved in this and other matters involving these official scumbags???
Major Charles F. Smith is the only deputy that has not attended, much less completed the POST Police Academy Course. He does nothing, knows nothing, helps nothing, and any time of the day or any day of the week you can find a Jail Trustee sitting in Smith's swivel chair, smoking and talking on the telephone to his squeeze. Smith is out in the sheriff's car "helping others, and himself".
Dear "Asking",
While Charles Smith is crotch deep in ethical conflicts, I don't think Sheriff Hilton's charity is one of them. Smith's dealing with Patel, on the other hand, and his covert operation of a saloon that is regulated and licensed by the City, and his dealings with certain consultants, now there he has a problem. And I sincerely believe that before it is all over, District Attorney Downs will kick Smith's ass all the way to Angola.
DA Downs although we all thought was a brave and good man has been a real disappointement . Case in point. Remember the issue of one of the counsil having a criminal conviction that by LAW prevents him from voting or running for office? IT IS CLEAR IN WRITING...our DA chose not to addres it. Rembmer when John Sams was pulilng a fraud on the voters by renting a house in one district and living in another so he could keep his seat on the School Board until they redrew the map? Our DA ...would NOT TOUCH it.....So.NO...Jam Downs will DO NOTHING...Documented Historical FACT
D A Downs don't do political stuff like school board residence checks. Downs pursues criminal wrong doing. I think that's what we are talking about here. Remember when he sent the NAACP chief to prison for 10 years?
Dear Civil, you precious little vixen: I can't imagine any circumstance where Delores would take back Dorsey or where Hobbs would even ask. Do you think there is somebody out there that will challenge Hobbs. He is CFS's rubber stamp - which he readily admits.
Also, how come all the noise is coming from the Mrs. Amigos. Don't they want it to be over. They better not mess with Hillary.
Civil, that is truly quite amazing. Does Hobbs need Dorsey's congregation for re-election. I understand that Dorsey feeds his flock very well.
Is there a possible challenger in #2 ?????
just a guess but I believe that civil & scarlett share a bathroom
Dorsey does feed his flock quite well...with MRE's courtesy of FEMA and CFS. I still can't figure out the deal with Dorsey. He has not been fired yet we are told that he will not be back at work. I suppose if they fire him he will be in line for a 25k check like the others got. Dorsey had the council and Ned in his back pocket...HE could do no wrong, that is until he pissed off Albin Provosty.
Oh...believe me, Dorsey has done plenty...but apparently none of it will stick. This is the same man that was convicted of distribution of cocaine. Supposedly, he was taking the fall for his boss, Peter Betts. He was also in very thick with John K. Snider our illustrious former Mayor. He was appointed as Assistant Public Works Director by Ned as a token to deliver the black vote. When Charlie Nunnaly and Harold Chambers conspired against Darrell Williamson to get him out of City Hall Dorsey convinced ned to name him as Public Works Director, and Darrell was sent to the Planning Department.The Council loved Dorsey because he would "handle" all there pet projects. He handled Bayou Roberts really well and got the City in lots of trouble. Dorsey was hauling all kinds of MRE's, water, etc to his church during the hurricane. Said he was running a shelter but wasn't on the Red Cross list. Apparently, no one is willing to "squeal" so the investigation has stalled. Stay tuned for the second half of "Days of our Lives"
Actually, I believe it was Possession of Cocain, not distribution, and I don't think Snyder liked him very well. Snyder was popular with the African-American population but had little real respect or use for them. The Council was composed of Marion Chaney, Columbus Goodman, Erol Dorsey, and some white people.
I did 2006
OK W fans, here is today's Iraq term:
"CIVIL WAR"
One entry found for civil war.
Main Entry: civil war
Function: noun
: a war between opposing groups of citizens of the same country
Goodness, do I feel a "draft"??
What's the stir on the second floor all about? Are the sleeping beauties waking up to the fact that Prince Albin is really a frog? Have they looked in the mirror and seen all the warts he has inflicted on them?
When the Amigos were gone and Ned appeared to not be able to even feed himself, Albin was the only person watching the store. Glad he was arround.
I am astonished by the ethical conflicts issues. That firm is a joke among the lawyers about their "conflict"" policy. The Patel stuff is amazing with Albin and Brenner representing opposing parties but the classic will always be Albin representing the England Authority against John Grafton and defending John Grafton from the England Authority. But here again, everybody looked the other way and got handsomely rewarded for their blindness. Poor England Authority member and prominent attorney, Henry Bruser, made a fool of himself for mentioning the conflict. Brigit Brown was making Mardi Gras umbrellas @ $50 a pop.
It is interesting to me that there was no such hue and cry when the council was controlled by whites. And yes, I am black. I just thought the blog needed to be integrated.
Your point has been repeatedly made by CFS. Strangly enough, he never said that the transactions in question were proper or legal, only that the white council members got away with it. That is unfair, I suppose, but I don't think that is the review standard. I think the review standard is whether or not the scrutinized transaction or relationship is ethical and or legal.
As far as fairness, these huge utility bills present a problem to the employed middleclass but are devastating to the poor and young hardworking middleclass family raisers. So the real thing for you to consider is what the black councilmen have done to your African American brothers and sisters. How many of them can identify with Charles Fredrick's cushy job or Myron's perfectly matched pair of Lexus automobiles and elegant house in a primarily white neighborhood.
In otherwords, maybe you deserve to be angry, but at whom???
Shhhhhhhhhh! Not many people know that Provosty is African American . . . .
Let me be clear. I do not defend wrongdoing by anyone, regardless of race. But, I do believe that the problem that these bloggers seem to have with the council is really about a shift in power. It is clear that those in positions of authority and with influence are no longer the faces of the previous establishment. Consequently, these new power brokers have brought new people to the table and that frightens those who have made their way -- whether directly or indirectly -- from city government. Isn't that the real issue here?
I agree that it is AN issue and perhaps the issue that prevents us from talking intelligently about other very important issues. CFS uses race as his justification as if to say "what do you expect from a bunch of negros". That is unfortunate because, in many people's view, both black and white, as he discredits his office, he discredits his race. And you are absolutely right, we resist change in any form. I am white.
Civil, you need to let Scarlett use the bathroom first. She has a balling to prepare for. You can get ready in no time. All you have to do is put on your sheet and hood.
Dear New Blogger,
I appologize for Scarlett/Civil. This is a dual personality phenomenon where Scarlett is the feminine side and Civil is the REALLY feminine side.
They would like to convey an air of southern aristocracy but, to borrow a phrase from Paper Moon, they are like the "white on old chicken shit". They appeal to our darkest racist fears because they are searching desparately for someone to be better than.
God, I love it when I am this witty! My spirit soars.
Civil, you seem to be reoccupied with licking and sucking. Tell you anything?
Civil, I think you will be much happier after you have the surgery.
But you still won't be a "lady".
Civil, how come you ain't out mingling with the cool people. That old "personality" thing? Glad you at least have us to talk to. After the surgery, you can be yourself. Maybe that is obnoxious also.
Should be easy enough to arrange - speaking your mind should only take amout 12 seconds. Wear something smart, yet casual, yet professional, yet debonair, yet bold. You know, something that makes you look heterosexual - borrow something.
I don't understand.
Talk is cheap. Alexandria needs a breath of "fresh air," and a change in its leaders. The only way that can be accomplished is by electing people that have NO affiliation with those presently in power. And the mayor is only one vote. He has to present it to the council for approval. Why try and control the snake when we could elleminate him permantly? There is an independant candidate for the snake's position, a newcomber, with no political ties with ANYONE. Why are y'all afraid to jump on Dr. Slatkin's bandwagon right now? Again, talk is cheap. Change begins when each of us own up to our personal responsibility by getting involved in this race. The "race" is about the course and direction that Alexandria will take. This election will decide whether we really want a change. Changing political factions will only change whose pocket is being lined. If your desire is to get rid of the snake, then pick up your stick. Your stick is your voice and your vote. Written opinions on this blog are interesting, but they are useless unless they are backed by conviction. Or in other words, Money talks and b.s. walks. Who are you?
If you defeat the snake, it all falls to the ground. If the snake survives, you can complain on this web site all day and night, nothing will change. He is the puppet master. They all revolve around the den.
Everybody needs to see a real surge in support for Dr. Slatkin and others need to be discouraged from jumping in. There is a rumour that Myron has recruited someone to dilute the anti-Myron vote but it that happens, we just need to identify it an move one. We should be talking to our friends and neigbors right now about Dr. Slatkin and making sure that they realize how important this is. Found out how to reach him (I guess calling his office) and tell him what you can do: yard sign, walk the neighborhood, show up and hand out stuff at the Queing on the Levy deal next week. I hope we don't blow it.
Scarlett, why don't you contact Dr. Slatkin, he is incredibly nice, and tell him to get his ass to the levy for that festival. We need to volunteer to do what we can to make that look good. He has to look credible to the public before they will jump on board so we have to be the catalyst. We can start the landslide on the levy. 'WE LIKES DE RIBS"
It is my fervent hope that Civil Sentient and Maverick have finally succumbed to PMS and will spare us their vitreole and themselves, embarrassment. Let us move onward and upward without all the personal attacks and bullying. If nastiness and anger are that important in their lives they can go down to the pound as help euthanize people's pets. Amen
I'm with you Olive. Strange, neither has ever won (or even tied) an exchange. Seems like they would just move over and let more rational voices prevail. Here's hoping.
How 'bout it Scarlett? Think we can get something moving for Dr. Alex at the Queing on the Red?
Delores wants to spend $640,000 so that Shaumetria Batist can have a place to sit and fish. What if we just buy her a nice goo every week. Then we could spend $639,000 on the CFS's water park where it will do some good.
Delores is a zero and will bottom out with the rest of the bottom feeders!
I am lmao at some of this...lots of emotion, which seems to trump facts! How unfortunate! I can't wait to read tomorrow's comments.
Post a Comment