ERIC GARRET: THE CASE AGAINST METRO CONTINUES

You may recall my earlier stories on the case of Metro employee Eric Garrett against Metro Public Works. For more read here:Louisville News and Politics: Search results for eric garrett

The case of Eric Garret gets better and better folks. Garrett as you may recall is the subject of harassment based on a whistleblower lawsuit he filed against Metro and the Abramson regime. This story is just one more part of the saga in this ongoing investigation.

On August 27 Mr. Garrett will appear in Judge Shake's courtroom at 9:00 a.m. for a hearing over this case so the story needs to be taken to the next level. I spoke with Eric Garrett's attorney, Shane Sidebottom to see if this was just a preliminary hearing on procedures, and was informed this was a regular hearing and witnesses will be called.

The purpose of the hearing is to determine if Metro Public Works can Order Garrett to undergo a psychiatric mental examination with a criminal profiler before he can be reinstated. There is no Metro policy that allows it and the exam was not ordered until three days after Garrett filed his very publicly reported whistleblower lawsuit.

I have searched everything I can, and can find no precedent whatsoever, or anything in writing, that would allow Metro the right to order this exam myself. The hearing should be short and sweet, but will not be if I know the Abramson regime, so I will be there anyway.

First a background on Metro employee players involved:

Betty Younis was promoted by and works for Ted Pullen and were together at some point working at the Louisville International Airport. Ms. Younis is also good friends with Ted Pullen's wife Susan Neumayer.

Susan Neumayer was appointed by Abramson to work with Rick Johnstone to handle about $450 million in ARRA stimulus money. Susan Neumayer used to run Public Works and had influence in the hiring of her husband Ted, who became the Director of Public Works.

Rick Johnstone is the father of Jennifer Maupin, a legal administrative liaison at the Department of Human Resources. Why would Johnstone's name be mentioned? Everyone knows Rick Johnstone's history with Abramson. This is the link that ties the Abramson regime together in this.

On 2-11-2010 Mr. Garrett filed an Ethics complaint against Betty Younis and Ted Pullen. Garrett also specifically named these two in the June 7th lawsuit that alleged they were engaging in gross financial mismanagement in the Department of Public works. Who was the only employee listed to speak with the psych about Mr. Garrett’s work history and attitude during the evaluation? None other than Betty Younis.

Who is in charge of this investigation? Johnstone's daughter Jennifer Maupin.

Additionally, as of 6-11-2010, the Network (company handling the Ethics Tipline http://www.louisvilleky.gov/InternalAudit/ethicstipline/ ) reported no input whatsoever from Jennifer Maupin on any investigation resulting from the 2-11-2010 complaint filed by Garrett against Betty Younis and Ted Pullen. No big surprise here either.

Jennifer Maupin has also been assigned as point person for HR to handle the current disciplinary actions against Eric Garrett.The suit is against Metro so of course Abramson's people will handle it.

Jennifer Maupin signed a contract on 6-9-2010 with Psybar LLC in Minneapolis to conduct a forensic psychiatric exam of Eric Garrett , two days after he filed a whistleblower lawsuit, at the cost of $3,370 for a 4 hour assignment. Kind of pricey if you ask me and to an out of towner at that? Do we not have qualified LOCAL psyches in Louisville at a more affordable price? But I digress.

On Thursday 6-10-2010 Mr. Garrett was served with a letter to report to the psyche on Monday 6-14-2010. Considering the weekend he had only 1 day to prepare any medical records or any other documentation that would be necessary for this eval. Can you get medical records from your personal Dr in a day?

This was an unreasonable request at the very least. Of course obviously it was retaliatory one.

Considering that Younis is the one who had a complaint filed against her by Mr. Garrett, how could she be the only employee called to speak against him? No conflict or bias there, huh?

I keep asking myself how this could be handled so blatantly wrong by Younis considering her position and this may help explain why. There is a history here that would make one think Younis should be removed from this situation because of a personal conflict.

In January 2010, Garrett complained about management's treatment of another maintenance worker still under probation, who was Betty Younis' assistant's son, whom Younis hired. This worker was allowed more rope than anyone could imagine. Management was informed of such conduct that included disabling his portable radio so that he could slip away from work early, riding his girlfriend around downtown in Metro vehicles which he did not have to sign out for his own use, releasing tear gas on other workers, reporting an imaginary boa constrictor in the Hall of Justice parking garage (Younis hired an exterminator to investigate and set traps and paid overtime for Metro workers thus costing the taxpayers unnecessary money), as well as threatening violence against Eric Garrett himself (signed statements by two maintenance workers reporting this threat were provided to Betty Younis).

I know I know. While a probationary employee? Are you kidding me? Nope I am not kidding you.

Was there anything done to reign in this behavior? Apparently not, even though Younis herself was made aware of it.

Some of the accusations now lobbied against Eric Garrett?

Garrett is accused of having "gained access to the entire HVAC system at Metrosafe" in 2009, but Younis failed to mention that he was assigned access by Facilities Management to the system to collect readings on equipment at Metrosafe. He was given "read access" only by Ryan LeGaspi, an IT specialist for Johnson Controls, which means that he could not affect the system's operation.

Garrett is accused of asking a Metro horticulturalist for her password into the Hansen computer system yet doesn't disclose that Younis herself had asked Garrett to instruct the horticulturalist in the use of the system.

Younis claims Garrett "frightened" Loretta Broadnax while Broadnax was yelling at Garrett in the LMPD HQ basement on 4-7-2010, although it doesn't say how. Younis then refers to the statement of the only witness to the event, another maintenance worker, to "confirm the hostile nature of the engagement".

The witness stated in writing that all of the hostility was on the part of Ms. Broadnax. Loretta Broadnax has a rumored history of such conduct, even reportedly threatening to "cut" a coworker with a knife once at the Urban Government Center, which is rumored to be the reason she was transferred downtown in the first place.

Here's an obvious question.

If Broadnax was the aggressor, as verified by the witness, and Broadnax was doing all the yelling while Garrett stood there, just exactly what could she have been frightened of? Another idiotic statement.

Younis writes, "Over a period of a year, and approximately one year ago, Mr. Garrett has expressed interest in, and been given the opportunity to, perform work beyond that of a Maintenance Worker. He was asked to assist with data collection and entry for the work order system, he was asked to assist with MS4 permitting information-gathering, he collected for FM's public art portfolio. Each time, he had to be removed from the project because he was completely unable to take direction, to complete the tasks without veering off into the purely intellectual aspects of each of those systems…"

Excuse me but huh? "...veering off into the purely intellectual aspects of each of those systems…" I don't know about you but details are important in projects. Though apparently Younis would like to live in a dream world, where you say "do this" and it magically happens, I personally would want someone to pay attention to the "intellectual aspects" and details of any project. You know so we avoid potential problems. Common sense must prevail here and Younis statement makes one believe she may have none.

Additionally, according to sources Garrett was not "removed" from these projects. Unable to complete projects?

He completed the primary phase of creating a workable HVAC preventive maintenance work order system that is operational today should anyone choose to use it. Upon completion the project ended. So much for removal huh?

Garrett apparently finished the public arts portfolio to the extent that he completed all work that was asked of him. Again another finished product.

The MS4 (Municipal Separate Sewer System) protocols he was asked to write turned out badly because Garrett quit the project due to a conflict from Younis' inability to understand the guidelines established by the EPA.

Younis later apologized to Garrett in front of witnesses. Of course that wasn't mentioned by Younis either.

Why would you as a boss apologize unless you were, you know, dare I say it, um wrong? Not that we aren't used to Metro Abramson cronies being wrong. Garrett also never received an increase in pay for any of this extra work.

And, um, Ms Younis? There is a difference between being "removed" from a job and "completing" a job. Most non bosses even know this.

In regards to Garrett, Younis also wrote, "you stated that you believed that you would not receive a fair hearing from either Betty Younis or Ted Pullen. This statement is disturbing and frightening due to the veiled hostility it represents against Management" - (this is a direct quote from a response (dated 4-26-2010) to Eric Garrett's grievance of the personnel action taken against him on 4-8-2010. The response was never provided to Eric Garrett or A.F.S.C.M.E (the union) and was received on 7-5-2010 during discovery. It has been sent to the Union and is currently making its way through Public Works channels .

For starters I don't see a "veiled threat" in making the statement that you do not believe you would receive a fair hearing. In fact, based on the information available, and the way this has been handled so far, I find it very probable Garrett would not be treated fairly.

I have been told Younis herself received $1.15 Million from her own whistleblower lawsuit against the Louisville Airport Authority. That adds an interesting twist eh? Especially since the rumored witness who testified on behalf of Younis is none other than, yep you guessed it, TED PULLEN who testified/provided the info supporting Younis’ case and aided in the settlement.

Meanwhile Garret has been off of work since April, will win this case easily, and it will cost us more tax money from the failed leadership of Abramson and his crew.

But that is no problem to folks in the Abramson regime like Younis and Pullen. These folks typically think they can do anything they want with no regard to our tax money. They feel it is theirs for the taking and manipulation apparently.

In the case of Younis she got her tax money payoff the good old fashioned way. She sued the City. Ironically by using the same whistleblower status against Louisville Airport Authority that Public Works is abusing today retaliating against Mr. Garrett. I wonder if her getting a Metro job was part of her whistleblower agreement.

Funny how things work out.

METRO EMPLOYEE ERIC GARRETT CASE CONTINUES...

The case of Metro employee Eric Garrett goes on. As many of you know I have followed this case for some time and I firmly believe Mr. Garrett is right. Whistleblower laws were designed to protect employees from repercussions for challenging the wrongs in Government or any other business. Unfortunately, our own Government gestapo, in this case and many others they are acting as a gestapo in my opinion, continually ignores this in favor of trying to keep the problems secretive.

You can read more about the Eric Garret case here: Louisville News and Politics: Search results for Eric Garrett.

LEO Weekly's Phillip Bailey had an interesting article this week as well Jerry's kids Louisville's Alt-Weekly LEO Weekly. The LEO story begins with this paragraph:

In a decision that backhands Metro government, the state’s division of unemployment insurance ruled the suspension of Public Works employee Eric Garrett — who filed a “whistleblower” lawsuit against the city earlier this year — was not backed up by sufficient evidence.

Last month, however, the Kentucky Office of Employment and Training held a hearing that determined the city’s allegations lacked proper evidence and, in turn, awarded Garrett his unemployment benefits.

Very telling in itself that the Kentucky Office of Employment themselves determined that the City lacked proper evidence to deny unemployment to Garrett during his time off. There is so much more to this story that I can write it for hours but when the State sides with Garrett that certainly does tend to lend even more credibility to the case.

This case is pure blatant retaliation because one man stepped up and said "hey this is wrong we need to fix it." No one would have cared if it did not involve Abramson's lies about his Energy Star program. That has been the crux of the problem from the beginning. Abramson has to continue making the feds and everyone else think this program is actually working well because he depends so much on that funding to abuse for his personal gain.

The amazing thing is that the feds have not even investigated Abramson and his lies. The thug like mentality being employed by Abramson's people is yet another thing that needs serious investigation as well. And this guy wants to be Lt. Governor? God help us all.

In the meantime here is something to ponder as well from Garrett's reply:

The Evaluation form contains the following provision:

“It is important to be as specific as possible in providing details about the employee so the expert doing this evaluation will thoroughly understand your concerns.” (Exh H, pg. 4)

Shockingly, the person designated by the Defendant to provide all such information referenced above is none other than Public Works Facilities Director, Betty Younis. The same Betty Younis that Plaintiff specifically filed an Ethics Complaint on February 11, 2010 (Exhibit I), met with Metro Councilman Hal Heiner about on March 25, 2010, and who Plaintiff Garrett specifically named in his Original and Amended Lawsuit (Paras, 13, 19, 23, etc.) for fiscal mismanagement and incompetence in the Department of Public works.” (page 3)

Interesting once again that the designated employee responsible for all things Garrett on behalf of the City is the same employee that has a current ethics complaint, and named in a lawsuit, on her filed by who?

Yep you guessed it Eric Garrett.

This case will get worse believe me but there is no way Abramson cronies in Public works can be found to be right in this case thus costing we the taxpayers even more money due to Abramson malfeasance.

The case of Eric Garrett is one that proves just exactly why whistleblower laws were necessary in the first place but there is one problem. It also allows us to see just how far those in power will go to protect their own jobs when they are clearly wrong.

In the private sector I was once employed by Ford Motor Co. Ford used something called the FPS system to help identify problems and cost cutting measures designed to make the company more productive and cost efficient. It was a plan based on the six sigma approach brought about through GE by then Chairman Jack Welch.

This plan was an employee based program that saved the company millions and still does today. It is because of these efforts by employees working together with management that Ford has survived and is now thriving in the workplace. All without a our taxpayer govenrment bailout by the way.

Employees were asked to get involved with no repercussions for their efforts and it set a standard for many to follow. I was very proud to be part of an effort where teamwork between those in power and those on the bottom worked together and made a difference.

Quote from LEO: “The only other reason they would suspend him was filing a complaint against his boss, which is illegal by the way,” says Shane Sidebottom, Garrett’s attorney.

Based on my experience, and thousands of others employees, working together actually makes a difference. Employers today understand they need employee input from those who actually do the grunt work to identify problems so they can fix them and save time, money, and resources.

Our government is the largest employer today. Our Louisville government does not comprehend the way a business should run. Make no mistake it is a business albeit one that runs with no accountability or apparent wont of any responsibility for its shortcomings. Thanks to a thing called political patronage.

In private business there are accountable measures in place. For small business if you don't make a profit you go under. In Louisville that is happening everyday thanks to the asinine way Abramson has run this City through patronage but that is another story for another day.

In larger business if you don't make a profit for the stockholders they make adjustments in business including new leadership. They are always seeking ways to better the Company so they can profit.

In the case of Louisville government they don't worry about the things the private sector must. If they don't make enough money to make ends meet they just take more of ours. They could care less about accountability as proven over and over through the overwhelming amount of lawsuits that face this City each day. The firefighters, the police, and the list goes on and on of those who have sued and won against this administration costing us millions.

Of course Abramson and crew don't care about that after all it isn't their money like it would be in private business. They have no stockholders to answer to only the voter. They spend our tax money in many cases buying votes to keep themselves in power. Don't think so? Read this site for instances of it.

I guess the bottom line is this.

For no reason at all Eric Garrett's life will be forever altered one way or the other because of his willingness to step up and demand accountability. The harassment and abuse he has had to suffer because of his choice to get involved, ask questions, and try to find solutions to problems is not acceptable to the Abramson regime.

Eric Garrett is not alone. There are countless others within Metro that have serious complaints that go unnoticed or reported because of the tactics that are used against Garrett. These unreported issues cost us literally millions each year yet because of fear of repercussions, such as those Garrett is experiencing, they go unreported. After all many have families to support and could not afford to lose their paycheck even if found to be right long after.

And that is partly how the Abramson regime likes it. They believe if they outlast you they have a chance to win when they are wrong. Many would simply give up and let themselves be screwed rather than face what Garrett does today. In the case of our firefighters a,d police for example Abramson lost because they had the resources to hold out through his delay waiting game. Most do not.

No one wants to be in the position Eric Garrett is in today. I don't blame them. I used to be just like that. As you can see through my history the past few years I am not any longer. Believe me it is liberating when you finally have had enough and work to make a difference. It is scary as hell though in the beginning admittedly. But it is necessary to stand up against corruption at all levels in order to make it better for those who come after us.

Eric Garrett keep up the fight. Many of us understand what you are going through and stand beside you in your efforts.

ERIC GARRETT WHISTLEBLOWER CASE UPDATED

Whistleblower Eric Garrett case goes on

For those who have been asking about the status of the Eric Garrett whistleblower case, I have been waiting until this week to update. The case of Garrett was supposed to be heard this week from Nov 1- Nov 4 but has since been postponed until February 14, 2012 due to a vacation by the sitting Judge Shake.

Since this case began many things have been uncovered about the inner workings of the Public Works department under the gestapo reign of Betty Younis and Ted Pullen. Retaliation, lies, and misuse of public funds are but just a start.

Just how incompetent are these people

I have received reports from many sources about Younis and her ineptness throughout. I have also been told that Jennifer Maupin, legal; administrative liaison in HR who supposedly did this sham of an investigation, has been reassigned thanks in large part to her poor handling of this investigation.

Sources indicate that she was investigating Garrett’s legitimate Ethic tip-line against Betty Younis while at the same time, investigating Garrett for misconduct at the request of Ms. Younis.

While she was supposedly verifying Garrett’s complaints of public works fraud and waste, she was simultaneously arranging to have Garrett evaluated by a Forensic Criminal Pyschiatrist after Garrett filed his lawsuit. See any bias there?

Surprised that Garrett’s ethics complaint went unsubstantiated after he was suspended without pay (later overturned for lack of merit)? Sources tell me that Younis and others were literally caught in their own web of deceit during their testimony but we do not have them as of yet to confirm. The investigation was handled in such a retaliatory manner, that HR backed off completely from pursing Garrett and sources say HR Ast. Director Fleming pointed fingers at Younis for how this situation was so mishandled.

Though the case will be continued in February there are some things that need to be answered now. The biggest of which is since when did Betty Younis have permission to use our hard earned tax dollars for a personal security detail?

Our tax dollars at work

Yep this did happen. According to sources Betty Younis unilaterally authorized $4,500 a week of taxpayer money for “personal protection” because Eric Garrett put her in the center of a Whistle blower lawsuit. The contract was cancelled after Eric was reinstated and his name cleared in the middle of October (08-06-10 to about 10-10-10; so about $40,000.00 paid for younis’ private security detail). Ms. Younis was paying $4500 a week for off duty police officers through a security firm to provide personal security in front of her office. Their instructions?

To watch for Eric Garrett.

They were given a picture of Mr. Garrett and told to watch for him specifically. That was their job. Several officers at once, paid $25 per hour to be on the lookout for a person who filed a whistleblower lawsuit against her Department. For roughly 10 weeks.

Our cost? Approximately $40,000 - $45,000 of our tax payer dollars for a personal security detail.

Was this a unique request and expenditure? Yes it was. Never had this been done before or since. Upon Garrett winning his case, and being reinstated with full back pay, the security detail was disbanded a short time later.

There are many more things to report and we will as time goes on.

In the meantime Louisville News will be continuing to lead the way on this important story.

Once again, now it would seem we have other charges to bring against yet another Metro Department in which Younis and Pullen need to resign now.

Stay tuned..........


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JUDGE SHAKE RULES ON GARRETT: OPEN SEASON ON WHISTLEBLOWERS

The whistleblower case brought about by Metro employee Eric Garrett just got more interesting to say the least. Judge James Shake overruled an injunction by attorney Shane Sidebottom to halt the order forcing Garrett to take a psychiatric exam. I disagree with this ruling for many reasons.

You can read more about the Eric Garrettt whistleblower case here: http://springston.blogspot.com/search?q=eric+garrett

First of all, there was no evidence presented whatsoever that showed Mr. Garrett was a threat in any way. In fact just the opposite. Loretta Broadnax was the aggressor and this was backed up by witness testimony from Keith Saddler on April 14, 2010.

Secondly, it is very clear from the record that none of these so called charges were brought about until AFTER Garrett had contacted everyone in March including Jennifer Maupin of Human Resources, yep former Deputy Mayor Rick Johnstone's daughter, Janet Black in the ethics Department, and Councilman Hal Heiner.

Third, how in the world can a sitting Judge not see the conflict of interest in this case considering that Broadnax has a history of threatening violence in the workplace, Younis was the one Garrett filed charges against, and has a questionable past herself, and even Jennifer Maupin when she testified stated that she was "only doing what she was ordered to do." Sounds like the Germany-Nuremburg defense; "I was only following orders of the furor…….. " and sadly that is exactly how things are run under the Abramson regime.

Judge Shake even used the testimony of the HR Director Bill Horning who stated that the evaluation was tied to the complaint by Loretta Broadnax and not Garrett's complaint against management.

This would maybe fly if the evidence did not clear Garrett in the charges by Broadnax and she did not have a history in the workplace even going so far as to threaten another employee with a drywall knife. Where is her psych evaluation? How is she still employed? Anyone in the workplace who would do this would be terminated immediately, and before anyone blames this on the union, the union could not save your job in this type of case.

All this because the Abramson cronies are in serious trouble with the feds when the Energy Star Program they have lied about is outed.

The argument in this case was one of "irreparable harm" and is hard to prove admittedly, however, how is there not irreparable harm in this case?

According to Shake's ruling there is no irreparable harm because Eric Garrett can always sue for more money thus reimbursing him for any harm done to him. Huh? The judge is actually telling Garrett that he should sue for more?

Interesting in itself considering that this lame Louisville government ran by the Abramson machine, and those like Younis and Ted Pullen, cost us millions in lost lawsuits.

Yet how else can there be irreparable harm? Simple.

If Garrett is forced to seek a job in the public sector the psych eval will have to be included in his medical disclosure if asked. I know firsthand how this is irreparable harm as I had knee surgery in 2007, was off work for over a year because of complications, and when I searched for work had to disclose this.

I was told by one hiring manager that this was the reason I was not hired. I had not worked since the surgery at that point, thus could not prove that the knee would hold up, and they didn't want liability.

No I won't out who it was because I respect honesty. Most won't be honest and they have no obligation to be by law if you are turned down for a job.

Is this irreparable harm? You bet. It cost me a job and income.

Now what do you think an employer will think who only sees your application and sees you have been under psychiatric care? Do you think you will get an interview and the chance to explain why? Nope.

Irreparable harm is done.

What message does this send to anyone seeking protection under the whistleblower act?

It says that the government will not protect you if you use the law they provided for you. It tells an employer they have the right to retaliate against you for doing your job and alerting them to problems.

It tells us just once again in this case why having a union is important. Without it this case would be gone and no one would ever be the wiser on how things really are in Metro.

This truly is a case of harassment, intimidation, and retaliation and most certainly has and will cause irreparable harm to Eric Garrett.

Stay tuned there will be plenty more to come I assure you...........

METRO EMPLOYEE ERIC GARRETT STILL GETTING SHAFTED BY THE CITY

Metro employee Eric Garrett as you may recall was indefinitely suspended for bringing to light major problems within the Public Works Department has now been shafted even further. You can read the original story here: Louisville News and Politics: METRO TIPLINE LEADS TO UNEMPLOYMENT WHEN USED .

I did a follow up on this situation here: Louisville News and Politics: METRO EMPLOYEE INDEED GETTING SCREWED BY THE ABRAMSON GESTAPO .

Apparently the Abramson regime just does not get it. Well they do they just don't care. They are arrogant enough to think they can do anything they want. Sound familiar? According to a letter sent to Mr. Garrett by Public Works he will not be allowed to return to work until AFTER a psychiatric exam is performed. Anyone else have problems with this?

How can metro demand a psych exam based on an employee whistleblower charges?

Very simple. It is all because Mr. Garrett exposed the problems with Abramson's claim to fame with Energy Star. The charges leveled by Mr. Garrett put in jeopardy Abramson's rep and golden federal money. That can not happen as Abramson depends on that money to manipulate his shortcomings. But hey I digress. Read the links above for more.

In the meantime this is the letter Mr. Garrett received:

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So because Mr. Garrett stood up against the machine they create a phony charge.

In February 2010, Garrett contacted the Louisville Metro Ethics tip-line to report supervisory and financial mismanagement in the department, the lawsuit says. After making the complaint, Garrett met with officials from the city's departments of Internal Audit and Human Resources. Sidebottom said his client also met with Metro Council member Hal Heiner.

About a week later, Garrett was notified by a Public Works manager that a complaint had been made against him by another employee of the department. Sidebottom said Garrett was suspended without any further information about the alleged incident.Yet according to Attorney Shane Sidebottom the complaint against Garrett was that he was "being mean" to another employee. He said a third employee has testified to Human Resources that Garrett did nothing wrong during the incident, but the suspension has not been rescinded.

The fact is the request for a psych exam is pure retaliation against Mr. Garrett who used the whistleblower laws and is being punished for it.

Whistleblower laws were put into effect to protect employees from retaliation when outing corruption, illegality, etc yet every time seemingly it is used retaliation is automatic within the Abramson regime.

Sarah Lynne Cunningham was among the first to be retaliated against and Eric Garrett is the latest. While everyone touts openness and transparency today, including Abramson, nothing could be further from the truth of their intent based on the actions of this regime.

The sad part is that there are dozens of folks within Metro who are so fearful of losing their jobs they will not come forward. I know I have spoken with many off the record at their request.

The actions of the Abramson gestapo once again led to a lawsuit. Which of course it always does. How many millions has Abramson cost us in lawsuits? This time it is a whistleblower retaliation lawsuit filed today by Mr. Garrett with his attorney Shane Sidebottom.

From the CJ, City worker who filed whistleblower lawsuit seeks order barring psychiatric evaluation courier-journal.com The Courier-Jo... : The lawyer for a public works employee who filed a whistleblower retaliation lawsuit against Louisville Metro government asked Thursday for a court order barring the city from demanding a psychiatric evaluation in order for the employee to return to work.

His lawyer’s request for the order, which was filed in Jefferson Circuit Court, says the city has no right to demand a psychiatric evaluation in this case. According to the filing, the city’s personnel policy allows it to ask for a physician’s exam before an employee returns from medical leave (makes sense right this is usually required from most employers)— but Garrett is returning from a suspension, not medical leave.

“Basically, what they’re saying is the government reserves the right to order any employee to undergo a psychiatric evaluation,” said Shane Sidebottom, who is Garrett’s attorney. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Mr. Sidebottom is not alone most I have spoken with have never seen anything like it either. As a former management person, and as a former employer, I can assure you this type situation did not occur because I knew legally it was unacceptable and I would pay for it.

Abramson does too. In fact he frequently pays for lawsuits with our money, but only after his attorney buddies get paid. As a supposed attorney, and yes I mean supposed because he never accomplished anything when he was supposedly practicing, you would think he would know this too. He does but does not care as long as his cronies get theirs.

This is by design to punish Mr. Garrett permanently for standing up for what is right. He loses either way. If Garrett does not comply they will use it as a basis of termination which will hurt his work record. If he does comply he is labeled someone with a psych problem on his medical and personnel records which will screw him for any possible advancement within his career field with the City.

The problem is the City has actually succeeded to a degree in limiting Mr. Garrett's opportunities within Metro or in the private sector. Thanks to the publicity surrounding this case because of the inept Abramson administration there is now a public record in the media of this. Anyone looking to hire Mr. Garrett today could easily find out he is now labeled a "whistleblower" and many will not take a chance on a person who has proven they will out problems.

I will be following this case closely and update as necessary. In the meantime pay attention because Abramson is screwing us all again. For you other Metro employees with info to share call me I will help you.

MONDAY EDITION:ERIC GARRETT CASE, MSD, AND MORE!

Welcome to the Monday upates. I have to tell you it has been a crazy day and also let you know some stories I am working on. One of them will be a story outing just how the inner workings of the parties use lies, deception, and manipulation to "push" candidates by making it seem they are closer than they are. All with the candidates approval of course. How pathetic is that?

In the meantime here you go.

METRO EMPLOYEE ERIC GARRET: I have been bombarded with calls concerning the Public Works Department and the whistleblower case brought about by Eric Garrett. You can read all about that here Louisville News and Politics: Search results for eric Garrett. In the meantime sources have revealed a couple of additional things. Apparently there are multiple lawsuits against Public Works because of the way it is being run by Betty Younis and Ted Pullen.

Additionally, there is a recent EEOC complaint brought against Betty Younis. The one thing I find interesting though is this report.

Younis has now hired off duty police officers for her personal security detail. AND given them pictures of Eric Garrett telling thme to keep him off the property. Yep at a cost of $25-$45 per hour (normal cost for off duty officers) who is footing this bill? Why does Younis believe she has something to fear. She has been the aggressor and the one creating the fear funny she feels she needs protection now.

Perhaps this is part of the grand scheme by her and the Abramson cronies to act like Garrett is a problem. We shall see.

MSD RATE INCREASES ILLEGAL?: As you know from previous reports MSD has been sued for illegal rate increases. Mainstream may be catching up. Though the story was initially covered by WLKY's Andy Alcock, WHAS 11 chimed in tonight. MSD rate hikes may have been against the law, suit pending WHAS11.com Louisville News, Breaking News WHAS11.com News ...

After trying to slide in a "Section 4" to the recent bond request, that essentially asked Metro Council to ratify every rate increase ever adopted by the MSD board, MSD President Bud Schardein says "That language is standard in every bond issue. We want the bond market, whether in New York or Australia, to understand these are guaranteed."

Except that is not quite true as usual. This was a blatant attempt by Shardein to cover his and Abramson's butt in a defacto way against the current lawsuit by placing the blame fully on the Council.

This is not the first bond MSD has brought before the Council and there has never been a mysterious "Section 4" added in the past ones clearly a signal that MSD's Shardein and Abramson himself are worried about this. This will get very interesting to say the least.

Oh the tangled web we weave when we first practice to deceive. The walls are crumbling Mr. Mayor thanks to the greed of you and cronies.

MSD will lose this case IF the law is followed. Stay tuned to see if it is considering who the Judge is...

STOP INSTANT RACING AND SAVE OUR SOUL: This one is funny to me. It seems the Family Foundation of Kentucky is at it again this time suing to stop instant racing at Churchill Downs Family Foundation of Kentucky challenging Instant Racing courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal. What makes it so laughable is why in the world would they choose this to fight?

I am totally against instant racing and slots only at Churchill Downs because I believe they would have a monopoly that would hurt charities throughout the community. I am in favor of legalized casino gambling if it can be done fairly and equitably. So I am no hypocrite.

Interestingly enough the FFK thinks this small form of gambling for revenue will destroy one's soul I guess. Hey guys don't go to Churchill and don't play the game. TADA problem solved.

Of course the worId is full of hypocrites I just find it funny when they are the ones teaching us morality. Since I know some of these guys like playing NCAA tournament pools each year I guess that term qualifies. Considering that these pools are, um well, GAMBLING.

What else can be said.

See ya next time!

Metro TIPLINE LEADS TO UNEMPLOYMENT WHEN USED: PART II

As many of you know Eric Garrett was exonerated of any charges brought against him by his Managers in the Department of Public Works and Assets, and yet his situation is far from resolved.

In the words of Paul Harvey: Now for the rest of the story.

On October 19, 2010, the Department of Human Resources informed Union officials that Garrett was to return to work with all charges dropped, and with pay and benefits restored. But documents I have recently seen show that the effects of retaliation committed against him remain in the public record and the people responsible are not being held accountable.

For background purposes check out Part 1 here: Louisville News and Politics: METRO TIPLINE LEADS TO UNEMPLOYMENT WHEN USED

The Metro Council spent a couple of years finally putting together an ethics tipline for any citizen to report misconduct and/or mismanagement in our Government. It seems pretty straight forward does it not? With whistleblower laws etc there are to be no repercussions for making a call and complaint right?

Garrett filed a complaint through the Ethics Tipline and reported that Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) maintenance had been badly undermined by the combined efforts of Betty Younis and her boss Ted Pullen, an area of work in Facilities Management where Garrett was very much involved.

The TIPLINE report was made on 2/11/2010. Then the repercussions set in. Garrett was suspended indefinitely and ordered to undergo counseling and a psychiatric examination on 4/8/2010, about a week after he met with then Councilman Hall Heiner to discuss his report.

Meanwhile behind the scenes Younis, Pullen, HR, and Jennifer Maupin were busy doing such things as closing the investigation into Garrett’s report on 9/16/2010. I have a copy of the report from an open records request, including internal memos and hand-written notes that show, for instance, that the case was sent from the “investigators” in the Department of Human Resources to the Office of Internal Audit to be reviewed and dismissed on the same day that HR learned that Garrett’s request for a court order restraining HR’s demand for a psychiatric exam was denied.

Judge Shake ruled that the Government has the right to demand that Garrett (or any employee/citizen) submit to a psychiatric examination without cause, and as soon as they find out about it HR says close the investigation on HVAC maintenance in government buildings. But it really didn't matter since they had done nothing with the investigation for about 5 months anyway.

So what is the connection between a psychiatric examination and HVAC maintenance?

As I have pointed out previously, and as was testified to in court, the tag team act of Betty Younis (Facilities Administrator) and Jennifer Maupin (former Deputy Mayor Rick Johnstone's daughter and legal liaison at HR) included Maupin assigning Younis (named in the ethics report and responsible for Garrett’s punishment) as the sole source of information about Garrett for the psychiatric exam the government demanded.

As an attorney she couldn’t imagine how Younis would not be objective? Younis was the BASIS for the complaint and she is the sole person responsible for the Garrett psychiatric report.

Talk about in house shenanigans. As the assigned investigator (her own conflict of interest) into Garrett’s Ethics Tipline report against Younis and Pullen, Maupin once again astonishingly goes straight to Betty Younis and interviews her about the report Garrett made, showing her all of Garrett’s report and in clear violation of the Ordinance that established the Ethics Tipline and the policies and procedures that state Younis should in no way be any part of the “investigative process”.

Yep show the accused the report so she can decide what to do against the laws governing such actions. Typical isn't it?

That's just the beginning.

What is also clear when reading the report and the notes is that the TIPLINE is itself a tool of retaliation, and I would seriously recommend that no person should use it. The so-called “third set of eyes” in the Office of Internal Audit run by Michael Norman that is supposed to keep the TIPLINE on the up and up is a joke.

And folks wonder why the independent tipline was set up last year by the STOP I.T. group before Metro's.

Norman completely ignores the basic, clear violations of the Ordinance and declares the investigation into Garrett’s report “extensive and thorough” when no supervisor was questioned, no equipment looked at, no records examined, and not even a glance at any of the material generated by Johnson Controls, the Fortune 100 Corporation that just completed a thorough examination of the HVAC equipment in most of the major buildings referred to in Garrett’s report.

In the documents used to close the investigation, it is clear that rather than actually investigate the substance of the report, Maupin and Younis began to compile a list of shabby accusations attacking Garrett that they then used against him, which of course makes the investigation and the retaliation a joke. Michael Norman must have felt that since Garrett reported Younis, it would only be fair if Younis got a chance to report Garrett too.

Still with me? As this case unfolds, we are likely to see even more into how ETHICS (or lack thereof) has been understood by the Abramson machine.

Other, recent decisions in the Department of Human Resources by Ms. Maupin include the complete rejection of longstanding complaints by two veteran supervisors, with nearly 50 years combined experience, also against top Management in the Department of Public Works and Assets, yep I have those letters as well, the allegations are simply declared “unsubstantiated” and no real investigation is required.

Even on the theme of workplace violence, which HR and the County Attorney's office harped on when justifying the fraudulent campaign against Mr. Garrett, Metro Government has a wide variety of standards.

Timothy Robinson, a Maintenance Supervisor, reported a physical assault on 9/21/2010 by a recently appointed Manager, Dreco Adkins, that happened right in the offices of Facilities Management with numerous witnesses, including Betty Younis herself.

Robinson had to flee from the assault and went directly to HR where he reported, once again, to Jennifer Maupin. Robinson was so discouraged by Maupin’s response he made his report in writing on the same day to William Hornig, Director of Human Resources and sent copies to all members of Metro Council.

To date, Dreco Adkins, a manager appointed to his position by, yep you guessed it Betty Younis, has not been affected by Robinson’s report. In fact, the next day they put Adkins in charge of the whole department without one word from Metro Council or HR.

When a report is made against cronies in the machine and they come back unsubstantiated, we now know what that means. It means the inner circle talks amongst themselves and asks if they can ignore the report, or if they need to attack the person who made it.

It also means that some people who are sold to us as responsible, certified, and professional in the conduct of their offices, are actually just looking around at what their decisions might do for them or their allies. They could care less about the way government offices function.

Welcome to the game folks and stay tuned.

There is more to come I assure you...

METRO TIPLINE LEADS TO UNEMPLOYMENT WHEN USED

Yep I know bold statement and I hate to say I told you so. But I did tell you so. Last year STOP I.T. group led by President Ray Pierce, and Operations Manager Paul Holliger, introduced the independent tipline at (502)410-1009. They told everyone that an independent tipline was needed for the sake of integrity.

Last year STOP I.T., Senator Dan Seum, Chris Thieneman, and myself held a press conference offering the Metro employees an alternative to what we knew would happen with the Government run "anonymous" tipline.

Today in the CJ proved just exactly why Whistleblower lawsuit filed against Louisville Metro Government courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal

This story involves Metro employee Eric Garrett.

According to the CJ, Garrett generated work orders for about 1,000 pieces of heating and air-conditioning equipment that were being "neglected," the lawsuit says, adding that he eventually complained directly to Public Works Director Ted Pullen.

In February 2010, Garrett contacted the Louisville Metro Ethics tip-line to report supervisory and financial mismanagement in the department, the lawsuit says.
After making the complaint, Garrett met with officials from the city's departments of Internal Audit and Human Resources. Sidebottom said his client also met with Metro Council member Hal Heiner.

About a week later, Garrett was notified in by a Public Works manager that a complaint had been made against him by another employee of the department. Sidebottom said Garrett was suspended without any further information about the alleged incident.

Yet according to Attorney Shane Sidebottom said the complaint against Garrett was that he was "being mean" to another employee. He said a third employee has testified to Human Resources that Garrett did nothing wrong during the incident, but the suspension has not been rescinded.

Excuse me?

Garrett was suspended without pay for being mean? Hell that can apply to Abramson himself who has a very short temper privately when pushed for answers. Can we suspend him for the same thing?

It was, and is, a pathetic display of harassment for using the tipline and for what it was intended to do. Just one more way to control Metro employees and one more reason for Abramson and cronies to go.

Of course we get the usual from Abramson's overpaid mouthpiece Chris Poynter who says the city "encourages all workers at all levels ... if they see inefficiencies, or things that are illegal or unethical, to report those."

Yep you bet they do. They love nothing better than to see who will try to do something about a bad situation so they can rid themselves of them.

I believe Sidebottom's version much more when he stated "Once Mr. Garrett met with the council member, that's whey he was mysteriously accused of some kind of misconduct."

This is what happens in the real world everyday just about anywhere in the workplace. Metro included.

What will be the costs of this one Jerry? You love wasting our money trying to cover your butt so how much will this cost?

Angry yet folks?

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS NEEDS A REAL INVESTIGATION

The following article has been amended to reflect the current job of Dave Vogel who works for Louisville Water and not MSD. My apologies.

You know I have been following the Department of Public Works for some time since the whole retaliation firing of employee Eric Garrett over his whistle blowing case. Garrett of course got his job back with back pay and to my knowledge still has an ongoing suit against them. We had hoped Greg Fischer would take serious his words of auditing each department and get us some accountability and transparency.

As I first mentioned back in early December Louisville News and Politics: GREG FISCHER: MEET THE NEW BOSS, SAME AS THE OLD BOSS...... I just don't believe that will happen.

Why would I? Ted Pullen who heads the Department of Public Works, and his little Hitleresque sidekick Betty Younis, have proven over and over they cannot do their job and quite frankly should have been removed long ago.

Now thanks to an alert reader we have even more information on Ted Pullen and an immediate conflict with his job at the Department of Public Works. One that once again is at the very least unethical, and in my opinion illegal.

Ted Pullen is a VP with the Corradino Group in Louisville. Corradino of course has received well over $2 million since 2008. Want the proof?

http://www.msdlouky.org/insidemsd/diverse/contractors.html

Supplier Diversity for Prime Contractors
Floyds Fork / North County Watershed Area
The Corradino Group
200 S. Fifth St., Suite 300N
Louisville, KY 40202
voice: 502/587-7221
fax: 502/587-2636
M/WBE Contact: Ted Pullen
email: tpullen@corradino.com

Corradino does public works engineering that includes water and drainage issues. Of course that would also include not only the Department of Public Works but MSD as well. We have written enough about MSD and researched enough to write a book on the problems there.

Corradino received $101,817.96 in 2008 from our taxes. In 2009 they received a mere $64,881.04. Then they finally got what they wanted because that amount went up drastically in 2010 to a whopping $1,639,421.31!

To date in 2011 they have received $603,187.44.

All with the Department of Public Works Director, AND Corradino employee Ted Pullen, ok'ing it.

Fischer of course has started an investigation but how effective can that be? His choice to do the review?

Dave Vogel from the Louisville Water Company. The fox is guarding the hen house folks and if Fischer does not correct these atrocities he is aiding and abetting. Another mayoral appointee. Just one more reason we need outsiders like the feds to come in here.

The story now switches to the contractual agreement with Johnson Control. As many know from our previous work, Pullen and Betty Younis pushed for Johnson Control to get a multi-million dollar energy efficiency contract with the City. Eric Garrett tried to expose this as impossible to maintain with the then current staffing levels. This is what ultimately led to the whistle blower charges and the subsequent retaliatory termination of Garrett.

Presumably under this contract Johnson Control apparently does not have to follow Louisville Metro policies and procedure for hiring contractors who will do work for the city. Simply put they can give the work to whoever they want to, or based on recent stories like the current Judy Green one, whoever they are told to give the work to. Yep another way to take it out the front and slide it in the back pocket.

And we the taxpayer pay for it all.

In the meantime stay tuned this story is just getting started............

METRO EMPLOYEE INDEED GETTING SCREWED BY THE ABRAMSON GESTAPO

Last week I did a story on what I consider to be retaliatory behavior by Metro Government in regards to a case involving Eric Garrett and his use of the Metro Tipline to report problems within Facilities Maintenance, in what seems to be a running battle with Department heads Ted Pullen and Betty Younis. Louisville News and Politics: METRO TIPLINE LEADS TO UNEMPLOYMENT WHEN USED

Since then much has been uncovered in my ongoing investigation of this agency. Primarily at first glance it appears Ms. Younis has no control over the Department nor does she have any applicable training or knowledge of the equipment she is charged with overseeing. Additionally, she seems to be in the habit of falsifying claims against Mr. Garrett, in the latest case using a subordinate with a history of conflict with co-workers. In what looks like a setup and despite having the only witness to events testifying squarely on his side, Garrett gets an indefinite suspension and railroaded into a psychiatric exam or loses his job.

Confused yet? I hope not because it gets better.

http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=labeled_buildings.showProfile&profile_id=1008735

Things like the Old Jail Building seems to be at the root of this problem. When you start talking to people who work Downtown stories about HVAC problems, the basis for Garrett's Tipline complaint, come easily to the surface. The Old Jail building gets special mention because it's the one building Mayor Abramson put up on the Federal list as a Metro building with an Energy Star rating, and then trotted off to Washington to get his award. But the problem might be that the building doesn’t deserve to be on that list, and it’s a joke to a lot of people who work in it every day.

How could that be?

Part of the problem is that routine maintenance just hasn’t been done in many of the buildings downtown, which is one of the most important things you need to do to earn your Energy Star credentials. In the Old Jail for example, lots of other problems make it a poor choice to brag about. In order to not get too complicated let me ask this.

If you bought a brand new central air unit for your home, but your thermostat didn’t work or your kids left the windows open, would buying that new AC unit make your home "energy efficient?" The obvious answer is no and yet they did something like that at the Old Jail.

They bought a new chiller and cooling tower to replace the old, neglected equipment for Energy Star purposes, but they did it ass backwards. They chose NOT to follow the guidelines and bought the system before a lot of other things had been done to reduce the heat load on the building, so that they could be sure to buy the right size equipment. They brag about outside air dampers, but fail to mention that they haven’t worked in years.

Energy Star guidelines say this is an "obvious" problem if your goal is to make the system efficient, not to mention that it prevents the folks in the building from getting enough fresh air (another Energy Star requirement).

Throughout the building, you’ll find problems like broken thermostats, dirty coils, broken valves and disconnected equipment, along with a long history of complaints from the building’s occupants. Supervisors at ground level have made enough requests for the authorization to have these problems fixed, so the responsibility lies with the same people who now claim it’s the best the City has to offer.

So just how does one get "Energy Star" certified? According to the disclaimer at the bottom of the link above:

"Narrative information in this profile has been provided by Louisville Metro Facilities Management or a representative of this facility. Other building information was verified and submitted to EPA at the time of application."

How does a building with all these problems get verified?

When you start looking at the connections there might be more to answer for than just misrepresenting the Old Jail as having an efficient HVAC system (we haven’t even looked at the boilers); there might be questions about how claims of Energy Star compliance are being used to leverage ARRA Federal stimulus money, and if it’s as bad as it sounds, the whole "Go Green" reputation of this administration might wind up looking like a house of cards. We will see…..

I’m hearing all kinds of rumbling about how things have been managed by Facilities over at Metrosafe, too, where the City just dropped about $12 million to upgrade a building we all depend on for emergency response. From what I have been told by sources Garrett apparently had to virtually drag Younis, kicking and barking like a rabid dog, to just get the filters changed on brand new equipment that had been in alarm for months.

That, I am told, is the incident that Councilman Heiner was inadvertently referring to when he mentioned filters being so dirty they were pulled through their frames. They finally were changed, I am told right after Garrett's complaint to the Ethics Tipline was made.

A complaint that led to a retaliatory indefinite suspension without pay I might add.

For the same reason, they might be running around now trying to get a lot of stuff done. I could go on and on and assuredly I will as this investigation continues but for now ask yourself a question?

Why in the world do we allow people with no education or experience to head Departments that require such?

There is more to come I assure you............

CRACKER BARREL A GO IN VALLEY STATION

Plans were announced today at a groundbreaking ceremony on Dixie Highway at Bethany Lane for a new Cracker Barrel that is slated to open in July 2012. Cracker Barrel

Internet censorship is a hot topic. SOPA/PIPA were the focus of the Ed Springston Show last night. Check it out.

Listen to internet radio with MyViewMatters on Blog Talk Radio

Whistle blower Eric Garrett settles with the City. Eric Garrett

Finally, Louisville, KY is broke and we know it. Louisville Budget Crunch

Listen daily from 7-8pm at The Ed Springston Show. Also visit Louisville Politics for more details and in depth coverage of local political and news issues.

2010: THE YEAR IN REVIEW

First of all Happy New Year to each and every one of you! 2011 will bring many changes for each of us, though apparently not in Louisville looking at Greg Fischer's staffing. With that being said, however, a New Year always finds us looking forward to better things and here at Louisville News and Politics we look forward as well.

I have always been a firm believer in history. An old saying says that if you fail to learn from history you are doomed to repeat it. I agree with this so with that in mind let's recap 2010 here at LNP and outline what we hope to accomplish in 2011.

First of all as you know we have been first on many stories with some beginning in 2009 and some continuing on today.

Here at Louisville News we not only report news but we also get involved in trying to make positive changes. Here are some of the things we accomplished this year.

For starters we launched the popular radio show "MyViewMatters Radio" with partner Ed Martin. Though the show is on temporary hiatus currently, while we work on funding to switch to a daily format, we found out that there are literally thousands who are tired of business as usual and seeking a voice. We provided that voice for over a year and will do so again in 2011.

We launched the campaign against the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife and were instrumental in getting SB 64 passed.

We led the way in trying to bring leadership into focusing on food safety. Many of you were amazed at just how far behind the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the USA in general is when it comes to testing measures. Over 76 MILLION people get sick each year from food illnesses and 5,000 die annually. Local expert and tester Paul Ham made a compelling case on the MyViewMatters Radio Show.

We led the way in fighting for SB53, the semi open primary bill. Though the bill passed through the Senate easily our illustrious Democratic House refused to bring it to the floor. This fight made National news as CNN came in to do a story focusing on the plight of Independents being heard, led by Independent Ky's own Michael Lewis, and made a mockery of KY thanks to Senator Juliann Carroll's asinine comments.

This will be brought up again and we will fight once again to make sure all voices are heard in the Commonwealth.

We led the fight and will continue again in 2011 towards saving our charities with SB 222, a charitable gaming bill. Despite the lies and deception by KEEP's people in Brereton Jones and Patrick Neely rest assured we will continue fighting to protect those least able to help themselves.

We brought about the plight of Eric Garrett a whistleblower who was fired by Metro Government after using the Metro tipline. Of course Garrett was reinstated after his lawsuit, that continues on today, and paid backpay of course.

We were instrumental, and continue to be, in outing the fallacies of MSD. This story is one that gets national attention and will continue to be a thorn in our side left to fight for some time to come. Rest assured we aren't letting it die.

We worked with outside groups as well such as STOP IT leader Ray Pierce, and Operations Manager Paul Holliger in bringing the independent tipline online so no one would have to go through what Eric Garret has.

LNP, and MyViewMatters Radio has given a voice to anyone who sought it. We had literally every candidate for office on air that requested it. The list is long and includes everyone from Senator elect Rand Paul, Lt Gov. Dan Mongiardo, to local voices such as Jackie Green and Denise Bentley among others.

We have given voice to all Democrats, Republicans, Independents. You name it we covered it.

Governor's race? Yep ask Gatewood we had the announcement live on air.
We have fought for inclusiveness such as those with the Fairness Campaign and Chris Hartman.

We covered National news such as the Arizona illegal immigrant stories and Obama-care.
Yep we covered the heartbreaking BP story as well.

We even fought against the asinine ORBP project and tolls. that fight will continue for some time as well I assure you.

We have called out political corruption at every level and even took on candidates. Jack Conway, Greg Fischer to name a couple. Lest I be told I am attacking democrats and not being fair remember the Todd Lally stories as well.

Kentucky's Passport scandal? Yep we had it here and Senator Julie Denton needs to go by the way.

Jerry Abramson? We outed the poorer, blacker, older comments that mainstream used. Most without any credit given. We have held this Mayor under the microscope more than any mainstream outlet has ever done.

We have outed the corruption in Louisville Metro Council members as well. Just ask Judy Green, Bob Henderson, and others

Bottom line? LNP reports the news, investigates, and even gets involved in the solutions. Whether that be outing corruption, fighting in Frankfort, or filing lawsuits our mission has been clear form day one. We will work to end corruption and bring integrity back into our lives through our elected officials.

Where others follow and gripe, we lead and get results. That is what separates us from the rest and what makes this venture so great.

What to expect in 2011?

Quite a bit. For starters we are now going to focus a bit on upgrading equipment and raising revenue. After funding this venture for 5 years solo to move forward requires funding whether through donations or investors. While I know times are tough, I'm a blue collar guy myself, there simply can be no other way. We have proven we are the best and now we need to move forward so we can get even more in depth and uncover even more.

While I have been beating up anyone who dares suggest I actually start seeking outside money, unfortunately we are growing faster than I can work hours to pay for it. 100+ hours a week is enough.

In the works are upgraded computer equipment, including a new laptop, better servicing for you the reader, and investors to bring the MyViewMatters Radio Show into a daily format. We are also looking at video equipment and some other things to bring you more video as well. We have already agreed on a contractual price with Clear Channel that is favorable and have lined up some exciting shows for 2011 once this is accomplished.

Our long range plans for 2011 include consolidating the MVM Media Group. The group will house all our ventures including the MyViewMatters Radio Show, Louisville News and Politics, and a local TV show that is in the works.

All I can say is thank you to each and every one of you for helping make us who we are. Without each of you getting involved we would literally be nothing. It is your dedication that makes any of this possible. Challenging me to do more, and each of you seeking the truth, has been a great thing. 


Though the 100+ hour work weeks get crazy sometimes never have I had one regret.

My allegiance to each of you is 100% and I am very grateful for the trust you have in me.

Get ready for 2011 folks it will be a doozy.

Happy New Year one and all!

MONDAY ROUNDUP

CJ Again trying to beat Rand Paul to death: Once again the CJ carried yet another story on Rand Paul today that you can read here: Rand Paul has long history of controversial views courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal. They must be getting really scared their favorite son Jack Conway is in trouble considering Andrew Wolfson used 10 pages in their online edition. I mean sheesh guys give it a rest let Conway do his own work.

METRO REALLY NEEDS OVERSIGHT: A couple of weeks ago I did a story on employee Eric Garrett who I felt got screwed by Metro because of his call to the Metro tipline. Louisville News and Politics: METRO TIPLINE LEADS TO UNEMPLOYMENT WHEN USED The story just keeps getting better so I did a followup over the weekend Louisville News and Politics: METRO EMPLOYEE INDEED GETTING SCREWED BY THE ABRAMSON GESTAPO The Abramson machine just keeps getting worse and worse. Stay tuned to this story as there will be more coming out including background on the controversial employee that Betty Younis used to make up charges against Garrett, and Ted Pullen who has no clue.

OLDIE BUT GOODIE: This was actually sent to me in email a few years ago and I just saw it again this weekend. I love it and felt like it would make a good read for you all. Check it out and let me know your thoughts. Until next time.............

The following has been attributed to State Representative Mitchell Kaye from GA. This guy should run for President one day... "We the sensible people of the United States, in an attempt to help everyone get along, restore some semblance of justice, avoid more riots, keep our nation safe, promote positive behavior, and secure the blessings of debt free liberty to ourselves and our great-great-great-grandchildren, hereby try one more time to ordain and establish some common sense guidelines for the terminally whiny, guilt ridden, delusional, and other liberal bed-wetters. We hold these truths to be self evident: that a whole lot of people are confused by the Bill of Rights and are so dim they require a Bill of NON-Rights."

ARTICLE I: You do not have the right to a new car, big screen TV, or any other form of wealth. More power to you if you can legally acquire them, but no one is guaranteeing anything.

ARTICLE II: You do not have the right to never be offended. This country is based on freedom, and that means freedom for everyone -- not just you! You may leave the room, turn the channel, express a different opinion, etc.; but the world is full of idiots, and probably always will be.

ARTICLE III: You do not have the right to be free from harm. If you stick a screwdriver in your eye, learn to be more careful, do not expect the tool manufacturer to make you and all your relatives independently wealthy.

ARTICLE IV: You do not have the right to free food and housing. Americans are the most charitable people to be found, and will gladly help anyone in need, but we are quickly growing weary of subsidizing generation after generation of professional couch potatoes who achieve nothing more than the creation of another generation of professional couch potatoes.

ARTICLE V: You do not have the right to free health care. That would be nice, but from the looks of public housing, we're just not interested in public health care.

ARTICLE VI: You do not have the right to physically harm other people. If you kidnap, rape,intentionally maim, or kill someone, don't be surprised if the rest of us want to see you fry in the electric chair.

ARTICLE VII: You do not have the right to the possessions of others. If you rob, cheat, or coerce away the goods or services of other citizens, don't be surprised if the rest of us get together and lock you away in a place where you still won't have the right to a big screen color TV or a life of leisure.

ARTICLE VIII: You do not have the right to a job. All of us sure want you to have a job, and will gladly help you along in hard times, but we expect you to take advantage of the opportunities of education and vocational training laid before you to make yourself useful.

ARTICLE IX: You do not have the right to happiness. Being an American means that you have the right to PURSUE happiness, which by the way, is a lot easier if you are unencumbered by an over abundance of idiotic laws created by those of you who were confused by the Bill of Rights.

ARTICLE X: This is an English speaking country. We don't care where you are from, English is our language. Learn it or go back to wherever you came from! (lastly....)

ARTICLE XI: You do not have the right to change our country's history or heritage. This country was founded on the belief in one true God. And yet, you are given the freedom to believe in any religion, any faith, or no faith at all; with no fear of persecution. The phrase IN GOD WE TRUST is part of our heritage and history, and if you are uncomfortable with it, TOUGH!!!!

WEDNESDAY UPDATES

There is so much going on right now even I can't cover it all. Here are some updates today and a hint of what will be coming soon!

MYVIEWMATTERS RADIO SHOW: Tonight on WKJK 1080 AM we will be hosting the weekly edition of the MyViewMatters Radio show at 7 PM. Tonight will be an open show with Ed Martin and myself and we will be discussing anything and everything. Want to talk about something? Give us a buzz at (502)571-1080. Details will be announced as well on the changes coming next week. You will like them!

RAND PAUL IS THE DEVIL DAY ELEVENTY BILLION SOMETHING: I know it is starting to become an everyday habit but really does the CJ have to continue to try and portray Paul as the devil? I mean each and everyday there is a new article trying to portray Rand as the evil coming of Christ himself. Here is the latest and predictably it chastises Rand again for the supposed "certification" problem. Editorial Rand Paul's 'certification' courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal. Of course you can read my take here Louisville News and Politics: RAND PAUL IS THE DEVIL: ASK THE LIBERAL MEDIA.

JULIE DENTON TO CHALLENGE DAVID WILLIAMS: Come on Julie really? Seriously? Julie Denton to challenge David Williams for Kentucky Senate presidency courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal You have major ethical baggage with MCNA Dental Damned: Lauderdale Health Care Group Puts a Senator on Its Payroll - Broward Palm Beach News - The Juice who states:

MCNA Dental Plans, a benefits system based in Fort Lauderdale, wanted a $20 million contract from the managed care group that administers Medicaid spending in Kentucky. State Sen. Julie Denton, a former dental hygienist, wanted a job. They both got what they wanted.

As Chair of the Kentucky Senate's health care committee you directly oversee the Passport Health Plan, which gave YOUR employer, MCNA Dental, its $20 million contract.

Your own son filed suit against you for theft claiming you stole $15,000 from his trust fund set up by his Dad, and your ex husband, Tom Rose that you used for your personal self?

Isn't it arrogant to say you will take on David Williams in January when you haven't even won your general in November yet?

While no fan of Williams on many issues I certainly respect the fact he will stand up right or wrong for his actions. There will be more on this later I assure you.

WHISTLEBLOWERS LOSE JOBS: Recently I covered a story involving Metro employee Eric Garrett and what happened to him after he filed a whistleblower complaint. Louisville News and Politics: METRO TIPLINE LEADS TO UNEMPLOYMENT WHEN USED. Looking further this case is going to be even bigger than I thought. We will have more details in the days to come.

That's it for now listen in tonight for the MyViewMatters Radio Show at 7 pm!

GREG FISCHER: MEET THE NEW BOSS, SAME AS THE OLD BOSS......

Did anyone expect change with a Fischer Mayor? Seriously? I mean bad enough he broke the law in getting elected, (see the Jackie Green garbage), and yes I have not forgotten my promise to file a suit though I know I am behind the 8 ball on that issue right now. But really keeping the Abramson hacks?

The headline from the CJ says it all: Mayor-elect Greg Fischer to retain most of city's top staff courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal

Therein lies the problem.

We cannot move forward when we continually recycle the whole mess of people in the administration that have caused the problems. A Fischer Mayor has now proven that he is not intent on moving us forward but intent on keeping the same old tired status quo.

I mean his entire transition team is a who's who of insiders and his administration will be as well. Everyone from Ron Weston, yep Ron we all know about your girlfriend and why you really left State politics, to the incompetent Chief Robert White who, according to numerous reports to me, prefers drinking in Indiana to doing real police work.

So what changes can we look forward to? Absolutely nothing and that is pathetic.

We had a real chance at moving forward in this election but it just did not come to pass. Take a look at what he says he will do.

He will conduct national searches for directors of the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health & Wellness and for the Metro Animal Services Department, an operation that came under extensive criticism a year ago.

Um no brainer since Troutman announced he was leaving the Department of Public Health of course he will conduct a National search. MAS? Come on that was too easy to predict needing being done. In short no substantial changes. But wait there could be more right?

Fischer also said he plans a management audit of the Department of Public Works and Assets — not because of any major concerns or problems — but rather to make sure it is operating at maximum efficiency.

The top-to-bottom review of the works department, which has an $83 million annual budget and 728 full-time employees, will be the first by Fischer's administration, with more analyses of other city operations to follow, he said.

“Public works, perhaps more than any other city department, has a direct and daily impact on people's lives, because it picks up the trash and recycling, fills potholes and maintains and paves streets,” Fischer said. “I want to make sure the citizens are getting the best services for their tax dollars.”

In order to get efficiency of our tax dollars he needs to look at the management of that Department and make immediate changes. Remember the Eric Garrett whistle blower lawsuit? The idiocies of the management staff including Betty Younis is the reason we have problems in that department. Start there not the pot hole filler jobs.

Metro Council member Kelly Downard, R-16th, who was the Republican nominee for metro mayor and lost to Abramson in 2006, said Friday he is a bit surprised that Fischer hasn't made more changes in top-tier positions.

Kelly Downard is right with one exception.

Not many I talk with are that surprised by Fischer's approach to top tier positions. Most of us expected exactly what we have gotten from him so far.

Fischer said his transition team is completing a “holistic review,” —led by businessman Doug Cobb—, of the city's Economic Development Department before he appoints a new leader. He said his transition team will continue to work with Greater Louisville Inc., the metro chamber of commerce, to advance the many economic-development projects and initiatives that are under way.

Again using the same old insiders to decide the economic future. How have these people stacked up so far under Abramson? Are we ahead economically? Consider the recent reports that we actually LOST jobs over the last few years when even our comparison cities, the ones the Abramson admin always liked to use, grew jobs.

Abramson has blamed the National economy for the problem yet our "sister" cities were able to overcome that excuse making it quite obvious that the biggest problem Louisville faces is and has been our leadership. Fischer has now stated he is more of the same by his actions. How is that working out for us so far?

Another indicator? Unemployment actually just went up here when this is the time of year hat unemployment usually goes down what with seasonal jobs and all. Any questions yet?

If we allow for that comparison then we obviously have suffered from poor leadership in economic development as in every other category. Fischer has proven he is loyal to the old money special Democratic interests and NOT in bettering Louisville with his "new" management style.

I guess one thing is for sure though.

With this guy in charge I can rest assured I will have plenty to write about until he is gone.............