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!

CHRISTMAS COMES WITH FEW REPORTED PROBLEMS

AP- Early reports tell us that after a shaky start Christmas came as usual this year. Fred Claus apparently did get to most kids and the ones that were missed will be made up later today. All indications are that Fred was 99.3 % effective in Santa's absence this year. This falls within the normal percentage of effectiveness by Santa. 

Earlier this morning we asked Fred what he thought about being the official Santa this year and he stated: " I never knew how tough this job really was nor did I expect much from doing it but I was pleasantly surprised. The children were very gracious with their snacks and it was very humbling to visit so many homes that count on Santa for a real Christmas." Fred went on further to say, "let the world know that no matter what happens with the current charges against my brother Santa that I promise them Christmas will continue each and every year. In future years we will grow it to be even bigger and better than before." 

With the exception of the normal few who complain that they didn't get everything they asked for, at first glance it appears that this year's Christmas has been favorably received. In many areas this year included a White Christmas that is not usual for some parts. 

Mother Nature sent a statement: "With the recent problems associated with Santa and some of his staff I felt like it was more important than ever to lend a helping hand to all those who truly believe. With that in mind I decided to relax the rules a bit this year and allow snow where usually there is not any. I hope that this helps in some small way keep the spirit of a White Christmas alive in the hearts and minds of so many people." 

The snow was well received in the communities and many were very thankful for the generosity of Mother Nature. While the coming months will certainly be a bit tumultuous for Santa and friends it is very comforting to know that Christmas will continue in the tradition most have become accustomed to. 

The newly formed Elves Liberation Front (ELF) even had this to say: "The events of the last few days have been disheartening to say the least. We have always only wanted what is best for the kids. It appears now that we may finally be able to relax and focus on that singular goal. Our heartfelt thanks goes out to Fred Claus for his generosity in stepping forward to help the children. With such a huge undertaking we were unsure of how this would play out. Fred has done a masterful job of maintaining the excellence of Christmas. A sincere thanks to Mother Nature as well for her role in helping keep the spirit of Christmas alive. We look forward to working with Fred Claus to address the concerns we have and help move forward to a new brighter future."  

It has been a tumultuous year to say the least around the world and the thought of Christmas not coming would have been a major catastrophe to many. Thanks to the efforts of a few that has been averted. This should be an example to all of what can be accomplished by putting the needs ahead of selfish wants. 

SANTA BUST CONTINUES...

AP- There appears to be more to the "Bad" Santa episode since our exclusive stunning news report yesterday. Authorities have now arrested and brought in for questioning the Grinch. You may recall the popular Christmas show "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." We are now being told that this show was originally put together as a slap in the face to law enforcement.

According to unnamed sources the Grinch and Santa have been friends for many years. While we revealed yesterday the many questions surrounding the funding for Santa Claus, it appears the elves are now coming forward in droves to fill in the blanks.

According to one elf, "Santa and the Grinch are business partners who enjoy sampling their own stock before they sell it. One night many years ago, when they were wasted, they came up with the idea of this Christmas show. The Grinch had always wanted to act but no one would hire him. I mean look at him where would he fit into a part?"

The elf went on to say, "with this in mind the Grinch and Santa decided since they had the best cover going with the whole Santa Claus racket they would snub their nose at authorities to prove they could get away with anything. That is how the idea for How the Grinch Stole Christmas originated. It was a cocky drug induced self promotion effort."

According to witness testimony Santa and the Grinch became greedy and devised a plan to not only put the Grinch on the air but to profit handsomely from the effort. While writing the script for the Grinch story they decided they would not only write the story but would live it.

The plan was a simple one and very easy to follow yet no one apparently did. Santa would deliver the gifts to the children and then leave a list for the Grinch who would follow right behind him and steal the merchandise back. Santa's accountant, Jack Frost, who released a statement yesterday saying everything was "aboveboard," was then used as the front man to sell the stolen items.

The money was then used to finance the intricate global drug trafficking industry Santa was arrested for yesterday.

We are learning as well that the money created from these illegal ventures was tucked away in multiple Swiss bank accounts and those were the frozen assets referred to yesterday. Reports indicate the amount of money frozen is equal to tens of billions of dollars. We are awaiting confirmation on those numbers.

Meanwhile, when the elf was asked why no one has spoken until now, he replied "we were scared. It's Santa who would believe us?" The elf also went on to tell us there are very many hidden meanings in the Grinch Christmas story that they were told referred to them.

For starters the anonymous elf has told us that Cindy Lou "Who" is actually Cindy Lou Grinch. Mrs. Grinch apparently was charged with keeping the elves in line. Like an evil step mother she was the one that enforced the 16 hour work day keeping the elves so busy they didn't have time to do anything else but work.

One of the hidden meanings occurs halfway through the story when the Grinch is supposedly talking to Cindy Lou Who about a light being burnt out on the Christmas tree. He states that a light burnt out on one side and he was taking the tree to his shop to fix the light and bring the tree back.

The elves were told that this was a reference to what would happen to them if they ever told. "We were told that our lights would go out and we would never be seen again. We were told that part of the story was a warning to us that we better heed."

And they did apparently for many years until now.

Another warning was when the Grinch stood atop the mountain peek and stated that "Christmas" came without boxes, packages, or bags.

"This we were led to believe meant that if we ever told anyone we would never see the hit coming."

So far there are many charges forthcoming including, but not limited to, drug trafficking, tax evasion, mail fraud, fencing of stolen goods, and more. Santa, Jack Frost, Mr Grinch, Cindy Lou Grinch, and many others are being held without bail.


While the World is waiting to see how Christmas plays out this year, Santa's brother Fred Claus was seen relaxing before tonight's marathon. After being fitted for a waterproof red suit at the North Pole tailor's office Claus took the sleigh out for a test run and stopped off for some quick water skiing. When asked what he was doing so far away from the workshop on Christmas eve he responded, "tonight will be very busy I am entitled to some down time."

Meanwhile, the world awaits tomorrow morning.

CHRISTMAS IN JEOPARDY: SANTA ARRESTED IN NORTH POLE BUST!

Sad day folks. This just in.

AP- Santa was arrested last night after an anonymous tip was given to North Pole police about a drugged Santa causing havoc at a Christmas party.

Santa apparently attended a pre Christmas party with a few friends and things got out of control. Frosty the snowman was arrested for having hashish in his corn cob pipe while Rudolph, the red nosed reindeer, was arrested for snorting crack cocaine at the party. Details are sketchy but at least one eyewitness states "everyone always wondered why Rudolph's nose glowed. We could have told them this years ago."

We spoke with some elves, under condition of anonymity, and were told this is just the tip of the iceberg. They say more charges are forthcoming. They claim that some of the reindeer have substance abuse problems as well claiming that Blitzen "is always drunk which is why we named him Blitzen, Comet loves doing speed balls hence his name, Cupid is a pimp and Vixen is his main ho."

Never before has so much been shared about the inner workings of Santa at the North Pole.

According to one eyewitness, "no one knows what started this. Santa showed up his usual jolly old self, drank some egg nog and ate a candy cane. Within minutes, however, he was telling Mrs. Claus to get the hell away from him and screaming something about bringing on the ho's."

Meanwhile, details are now forthcoming that this is not the first time Santa has been in trouble. According to law enforcement officials Santa has been under investigation for months about possibly being the ring leader of a cocaine drug network that spans the globe.

One official claims that "Santa first came under suspicion last July. We were given a tip about a Christmas in July event and that automatically raised some red flags. Who would ever think of Christmas in July?When we asked Santa how he could do that since there would be no snow, traditionally associated with the Christmas season, he just smiled, winked, put his finger on his nose and said 'don't worry I'll supply the snow.' "

Additionally, the official stated that Santa's bank accounts had been frozen since September based on some faulty accounting practices. He stated "nowhere can we find receipts for any of the material used in the making of toys nor can we find any income paying for the items. This is an immediate concern. As this is not a government funded agency, nor has Santa applied for any US TARP bailout funds, then who is funding him?"

Santa's accountant, Jack Frost, has refused to be interviewed but did release a statement to the press.

"As Santa's official accountant I can assure you that everything is above board. I have done no wrongdoing with his accounts. Kids around the world depend on Santa to deliver their Christmas presents on time and on budget. How he pays for all this is no one's business."

But what is Santa's budget and how does he pay for it? According to IRS officials in America it most certainly is their business.

"Anything of value is taxable. The fact that Santa has no way to show his expenses or income is a serious concern. There are many questions to be asked and answered. One, how can Santa have access to so much equipment and materials that he can make toys for all children around the globe. Two, are the elves paid? If so we have no record of any income taxes, SS taxes, or any other form of compensation to the US government for this labor."

When the elves were questioned they had much to say about working for Santa. They claimed that working conditions are horrible and include 16 hour days, seven days a week labor. When asked how much they were paid and what benefits they receive they laughed stating, "what pay and benefits? Santa has always told us not to worry about it since he was investing our money for our retirement. He went on to tell us when we requested some personal days or vacations that he 'lets us sleep 8 hours a day and that should be more than enough compensation.'" When asked if they at least had basic medical coverage they stated that they now had dental thanks to an elf named Hermie who is practicing without a license.

Head of the US Labor Department called these conditions deplorable but said there is not much that they can do. "We always knew there had to be a problem, but we don't involve ourselves in the rights of private business. It is up to Santa to negotiate with the elves and come to some sort of agreement."

Meanwhile the AFSCME in Louisville has volunteered to represent the elves in these negotiations. "We are already familiar with the inner workings of do nothing leadership as we have been under the reign of failed Democratic leadership for decades. We know very well about poor working conditions and lack of real leadership in the workplace accordingly."

While there is still much to be learned it is now believed that Santa uses the word "snow" and "candy cane" to reference his real business as a drug dealer.

With two days left before Christmas one option for delivering presents lies in Santa's brother, Fred Claus. It is widely believed that he will be the one making deliveries this year. Fred stated, "hey it's a huge responsibility and while I may not get to everyone I will try to get to most. Hopefully the kids will understand."

I guess we truly have to be good for goodness sake now.

Merry Christmas indeed...........

MONDAY TIDBITS

NBA AGAIN: Can things get any more incredible? Our tax money is once again going into the pocket of J. Bruce Miller in his latest attempt to get an NBA team to Louisville. Does anyone actually think we need an NBA team to subsidize with our tax money? Miller continues getting paid with our tax dollars every few years for the same old dog and pony show. Let the Metro Council know you have had enough with this frivolous waste of OUR money.

GET REAL BILL JOHNSON: Anyone remember former tea bagger and Republican Senate candidate Bill Johnson? Johnson is now running for Secretary of State and quite honestly I wouldn't vote him to be in charge of LMAS. IN short he isn't even good enough to hang with the dogs. This class act guy turns tail and runs whenever he can.

Case in point? Johnson was a featured speaker at former candidate Gail Powers fundraiser at the Lions Club off Cane Run Road. Of course Powers was disqualified the next day. When she contacted Johnson about possibly helping her he turned his back saying he couldn't be associated with her right now. He didn't mind the free publicity by being a key speaker but could not be bothered with someone that made an honest mistake?

Great guy eh? On top of all that he I would expect someone in the job of Secretary of State to actually care about ALL Kentuckians and not just a select few. Trey Grayson has done a great job in that role and Johnson would demean the office. Look for someone else in that race.

For more check out Curt Morrison Louisville Courant: Will Tea Party Candidate get Kentucky SOS-office too?

JUST SAY NO TO THE BRIDGES AUTHORITY: Did anyone really expect that we would get a fair hearing from the Bridges Authority? Bridges authority endorses toll-based financial report courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal. Disregarding the fact that 70% of the people want an East End Bridge only option, one without tolls at that, the Authority approved a toll based report. They haven't even decided to tell us which bridges would be tolled yet either. Predictably Larry Hujo of the Carpenters Union played the jobs card.

How many jobs does the bridge create and for how long? That is the problem. The jobs created would be short term for the life of the project and the costs are astronomical. Hell give me $280 million and we can get an East end bridge now. Forget the rest.

Kudos to Shawn Reilly and many others for keeping the fight alive.

STILL MORE ON JUDY GREEN: There is a little more on the Judy Green situation as well. It seems theft may not just run in her extended family, as in her cousin Kimberly Bunton, but it appears that her husband James Green was forced to give up his law license because of disbarment proceedings in 1987. The case number is 87-SC-837-kb. I am also told that the charges involved theft. I am working on verifying that now.

Happy Monday folks see you soon!

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.............

REALLY DAVE STENGEL? PLEASE LEAVE NOW

Dave Stengel needs to go. Seriously. Now. This guy is and has been nothing but a political hack for years. There is not one thing to trust about him nor does he do his job effectively. Period. Needless to say I am not a fan and the Courier Journal just showed once again why.

Check out their story here Dave Stengel reverses himself, says prosecutor Matt Conway was disciplined courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal.

It seems in the case of Matt Conway, yep Jack Conway's brother, there was much abuse of official duties by the investigative staff with LMPD as well as Dave Stengel's office. Matt was tipped off by police about an investigation going on concerning him and drugs. You can read an earlier story here Louisville News and Politics: DID AG CONWAY BREAK THE LAW TO AID HIS BROTHER?

Stengel has lied repeatedly about this situation and in my opinion has kept other cases from being heard by a Grand Jury all because of politics. Let's look at this case in more detail.

While Jack Conway was busy playing the "aqua buddha" game with Rand Paul he found time to contact investigators to ask if there was an investigation going on against his brother. In the meantime according to the CJ, Matt Conway failed at least 2 drug tests in March.

Stengel in October states that he cleared Matt Conway in the drug charges yet now we find out that Matt was put on probation for at least a year. So what is Stengel's response when caught in an obvious lie?

Stengel told The Courier-Journal Tuesday that he thought “all internal discipline was confidential. I didn't really realize it was subject to open records. If I blabbed it, then it wouldn't be confidential.”

Stengel also said he did not consider the probationary period he imposed on Conway to be disciplinary action.

This guy is the Commonwealth's attorney? He doesn't even know the basics of open records laws? He doesn't consider a probationary period put in place as a response to drug charges discipline? He doesn't consider that failing at least two drug tests violate that probation?

And why did it take until October to put all this info out? It happened in March.

Insider politics period. Stengel is part of the game and misuses his office accordingly in my opinion.

That is unacceptable to any of us.

To believe that Stengel is that stupid or naive undermines just how connected he is. If he is that dumb he certainly does not ever need to be placed in a position of power like Commonwealth Attorney. If he isn't then he is as crooked as they come. You figure it out.

And don't get me started on Harry Rothgerber his assistant. I spoke with him one time and I must say it wasn't pretty.

But his personnel file includes a memorandum, dated March 18, and written by Stengel's first assistant, Harry Rothgerber specifically titled “disciplinary action.”
Asked about that reference, Stengel said: “Well, yeah, it's called ‘discipline' by Harry, so it's discipline.”

So if Harry says something it must be true? Stengel isn't smart enough to figure that one out since according to Rothgerber “a decision was reached by Mr. Stengel to place Mr. Conway on probation for 12 months. His (Conway's) division chief will not be made aware of this, and I will continue to monitor his progress.”

The personnel file contains the results of two such tests, one of which was conducted on March 12 and revealed the presence of cannabinoids — a compound found in marijuana — in Conway's urine sample.

Stengel said Conway told him he was taking Benadryl, an over-the-counter cold and allergy medication, at the time of the first drug test, and that Conway's physician and others said that could be responsible for the positive result.

Folks this guy prosecutes drug cases!

Would anyone reading this not bother to verify with another source whether this is true or not?

I have talked with 2 physicians today both of whom I have known for years and they deny this would happen. I am told that Benadryl DOES NOT create a false positive for cannabinoids. Who is right and who is wrong is very subjective at this point but it is clear that Stengel did a pathetic job verifying.

Is it any wonder that so many of us are sick of the BS in the legal field.

Stengel himself basically said they didn't verify with this statement. “We believed everything he was saying, but we just wanted verification,” Stengel said.

Yet he never sought independent verification.

It is time for the good ole boy system to be gone. It appears to permeate every aspect of our elected officials including the legal.

I also think it is time to hold those in the court system accountable. Want to clean this up? Start with a mandatory drug test for ALL in the Commonwealth's Attorney's office, County Attorney's office, and All sitting Judges.

Then make them accountable by requiring them to submit to random drug testing like most of the private sector already has to adhere to.

If it is good enough for us, and upheld by the courts at that, that millions of Americans can be forced into this then it should be good enough for those who enforce the rules on each of us.

This is long past due and many of us demand it now!

After all we must start somewhere.

JUDY GREEN STORY RAISING MANY RED FLAGS

There is so much I am uncovering and I still haven't scratched the surface of Councilwoman Judy Green. That is saying something. This is one more part in the ongoing saga of our City Councilwoman. It appears Mrs.? Green uses several aliases when conducting business. I use the question mark after Mrs simply because of one nagging question. Why would a person having been married for 30 years to the same man continue to use multiple names including her maiden one when conducting financial business?

How many of us could do that without raising suspicion?

Ms. Green uses many names including Judith Green, Judith G. Green, Judith E. Greenwell (maiden name) and a couple more variations. Alarmingly no one has done any background checks on Ms. Green or her husband James Green.

After a quick search I found many things that cause concern.

First in the case of James Green there are at least 2 pending lawsuits against him and Judy Green, or Greenwell in at least one of them.

10-CI-002648
JEFFERSON

PERKINS MOTORS INC, VS. GREEN, JAMES P,

10-CI-402936
JEFFERSON

GOLDSMITH, GUS VS. GREEN, JAMES P. , ET AL

The et al portion of the Goldsmith case includes his wife listed as Judy Greenwell, the Department of Revenue, and Curtis Reynolds.

Apparently Gus Goldsmith, remember that name from the Wayside situation?, loaned the Green's $140,000 that they have apparently defaulted on. The suit involves the Department of Revenue perhaps because of this:

JAMES P GREEN $14,113.41 749 S 43RD ST LOUISVILLE KY 40211 JEFFERSON 542 741

JUDY E GREENWELL $14,113.41 749 S 43RD ST LOUISVILLE KY 402112776 JEFFERSON 542 742

Tax liens folks.

There was an order of sale rendered by the courts November 10, 2010 against the Greens. Was this their personal home or the Perkins property. If they owned the Perkins property then why are they being sued by Perkins?

I am working now on verification but it appears that Goldsmith lent money to the Greens and has a security interest in the old Perkins Chrysler Building at 2105 Dixie Highway which just happens to be the same address that James Green used for Green automotive.

Green was also approved for a $100,000 forgivable loan through Metro but I have not verified if it was ever collected upon or not.

Had enough yet? It gets worse believe me.

By the way does anyone know if Curtis Reynolds is related to Keith Reynolds, mortgage banker for First Commonwealth Bank? That could be interesting considering Keith is the husband of Judge Sadiqa Reynolds.

But I digress.

In the case of the Greens there is also an existing IPL Lien against their home and there have been charges, dropped as of this month, for false alarms stemming from their home.

It would seem based on the available evidence that Councilwoman Judy Green is no longer qualified to be a foster parent as well.

According to the website in regards to foster parent qualifications:

3. What are the qualifications for becoming a foster parent?

An applicants must be at least 21 years old with income sufficient to meet his or her family's needs. Applicants may be married or single and applicants and family members must be in good physical and mental health. Physician statements are required to verify physical and mental health status. Applicants must meet the requirements for housing safety and space, provide at least three references and authorize the release of criminal records to the Department for Community Based Services.........

It would appear that the income sufficient part is lacking at this point and that would not do justice to any foster child put in the home. Additionally, I have been told that James P. Green is no longer allowed to practice law in Ky. I am searching now to determine whether he voluntarily gave up his law license or had it revoked.

If it was revoked it would have to have been for criminal behavior even if it was part of a plea agreement.

These things are important.

Stay tuned folks this is just the beginning of yet another scandal of an elected official......

CASE AGAINST COUNCILWOMAN JUDY GREEN IS HEATING UP

You know I have been covering the Judy Green and what I consider to be her illegal behavior in her self titled "Green team." The Courier Journal's Dan Klepal did a good cover story on the basics and WLKY's Andy Alcock did an excellent interview with Green as well. After following these stories and doing my usual research it appears that Green and her family are very adept at gaming the system for their own gain.

Big charge I know but many questions abound about this situation so let's break some down.

First, according to the CJ article by Klepal Judy Green's relatives got 10 percent of money from jobs program, audit finds courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal makes some questions rise to the surface.

One, according to the article Green's husband James Green received a payment from the program but no one knows how much it was. How in the world can this program run by Judy Green make a payment to her husband and no one knows how much it was for? I call bullshit. Yep strong word but relevant in this case.

Additionally, Klepal outlines that 10% of the total monies went to the family of Judy Green. How and why is that?

Green supposedly has a practice worth almost a million a year Judith Green DDS, Louisville, KY.

Since the program was touted as being for the poor children in her district then how would any of her children or family members qualify?

Of course the argument would be that Judy Green has foster children and they would qualify. Of course that leads to many more questions. First of all according to Green's own bio:

"A native of Henderson, Kentucky, Councilwoman Green has been married to James P. Green for 30 years. She is the proud mother of a very large and successful family, boasting of 2 biological children, and 11 adopted children. In the last two years, Dr. Green and her husband have been the foster parents of approximately twelve (12) teen-age boys."

WLKY's Andy Alcock had this story as well: Audit Raises Ethical Questions About Jobs Program - Politics News Story - WLKY Louisville

In this story Green said only eight of her relatives, including children and foster children, were part of the program, as well as her husband, who she said helped supervise it, without pay, when she saw problems.

Yet in the CJ story "Green's husband James Green received a payment from the program but no one knows how much it was." Contradictory? You bet.

The audit also found of the $55,000 of grant money, there was documentation for use of only $26,730 of that money.

The remaining $28,270, according to the audit, did not have sufficient documentation for its use.

I also want to know how can it be that Green has 11 adopted children AND 12 foster kids in addition to her own 2 biological children?

Foster children get placed in homes and the foster parents are paid a minimum of $700 monthly per child for their care. If we look at this in play, is Green collecting $8400 monthly from our tax dollars in addition to her half to one million dollar business?

More importantly how in the world does the housing authority allow so many people to live in a single household. Maybe her relative Kimberly Bunton had something to do with approving that one as well. I really don't know but the whole thing looks very suspicious.

Are the living conditions for these foster children meeting minimum housing standards? How does it affect the foster children. Are they being packed in like sardines for monetary gain for the Green's?

These are serious questions that demand answers.

I also have to ask how in the world does she have time to do anything on the Council? Running a practice that produces $500,000-$1 million a year sure would take some serious hours. Representing District 1 as a Council member takes up so many more.

Who is caring for the children?

Does she only take teenage kids as foster children as her bio states? If so, is it because she leaves them alone to fend for themselves while collecting our tax money for their "care?" This is not what the foster parent program is supposed to be about.

Is this conducive to helping our kids better themselves. Take them away from a broken home only to place them in a home with no boundaries or oversight? I don't have those answers but I do question it.

How many of you work a full time job, and in many cases two jobs, and have time to truly give your kids the attention and care they deserve.

And don't forget the police report stated that Green herself ran her own Green team program which takes many hours more. Of course Green now denies that one as well.

Seems to be a habit of hers to take the money and then deny, deny, deny.

I don't know about you but I am concerned for the kids and the District with leadership like this.

There will be more including the financial histories and why the Green's may be gaming the system. It will include at least 4 different variations of Judy Green's name and businesses.

I will be calling for some serious investigations into the behavior and family life of Councilwoman Judith Green and her husband James.......

COUNCILWOMAN JUDY GREEN, SENATOR JULIE DENTON, AND MORE......

It is nice to know you are missed. Seriously. For the hundreds or so who have been writing asking where I have been I thank you immensely. It truly is heartwarming to know I make such a difference in many of your lives. For the record I took the last couple of weeks slow on this site intentionally. In short I needed some rest and time to deal with some personal issues.

My wife had a health scare that needed addressing and I adopted a new puppy who was sick and had to be put down Thanksgiving night. Zeus lived with us for two short weeks but had an amazing impact on all of us. Speaking of which the Kentucky Humane Society is knowingly adopting out sick animals which is against the law. That will be dealt with in a future article. With all of that and the 100 plus hour workweeks between this, and the real job that helps keep all this in existence, it was just too much and I needed to focus on my family.

I am working on funding to get the radio show back on air. For the thousands of you who keep asking hopefully I will have that in place by January and I will get back to doing this full time. We are working to turn the show into a daily format as well. I will keep you posted. In the meantime you can help by donating at the paypal link to the right ;-)

For now here are some updates. I will be back in full swing in the next week or two.

District 1 Councilwoman Judy Green has apparently dodged a bullet. According to reports Green will not be charged with any criminal wrongdoing in the case of her self titled "Green team." Green sponsored a youth summer work program to put kids to work cleaning up alleys etc in District 1. The problem?

None were paid. Their pay was held up due to an audit being performed on the accounting practices of Ms. Green's program. While finally paid in September the audit has brought much to light and makes us question if ANYONE in elected office will ever be held accountable.

After being investigated, one primary reason for that was because Judy Green had her own kids paid through HER program funded by our tax dollars (no one sees a conflict here right?), the LMPD Public Integrity Unit had this to say. From the CJ Judy Green won't face criminal charges in jobs program investigation courier-journal.com The Courier-Journal:

Louisville Metro Council member Judy Green will not face criminal charges in connection with a summer jobs program for youth that was funded by city tax dollars and employed several of her children or foster children, according to a case summary of the investigation by the Louisville Metro Police Department's Public Integrity Unit.

But the police report is highly critical of the program, saying it was “extremely unethical in its design, control and completion.”

Metro Police have been investigating the so-called Green Clean Team's 2009 program since August, after the city's internal auditor, Mike Norman, couldn't account for $35,000 in spending.

In their investigation, police gathered hand-written receipts and canceled checks that the report said “seemed to account” for $34,735.

The police findings were reviewed by a special prosecutor, Commonwealth's Attorney Laura Donnell, whose office covers Shelby, Spencer and Anderson counties. A case summary of the police investigation was obtained by The Courier-Journal earlier this week.

While the report says there isn't “enough evidence of a crime or criminal intentions,” it also says the program “has the appearance that criminal activity could have been taking place in regards to the improper utilization of Louisville Metro Government grant funds.”

I love the hand written receipts thing myself. I mean how hard is it to go back and dummy up that evidence.

Of course Green says she did nothing wrong and plans on continuing the program next summer and why not? She just got away with this idiocy so what is to lose by padding her family pockets once again with our money.

Additionally I have received a few reports of Judy Green's husband receiving $100,000 for a cleanup project in the old Perkins Chrysler property on Dixie at Algonquin Parkway. I am researching that claim now but funnily enough I have not seen any clean ups or anything different on that property. At the very least it shows once again what I consider to be unethical behavior by padding the pockets of your family.

From what I gather Ms. Green is also the Aunt of former housing director Kimberly Bunton who is now being charged for criminal wrongdoing for taking money from the Housing authority for her family's gain.

Apple tree anyone?

Apparently unethical and borderline criminal is ok for elected officials that would put us in jail. Good to know huh? This story is not going away I assure you.

Meanwhile speaking of ethics. How is it that State Senator Julie Denton was not named in the recent audit of the Passport program? You may recall a CJ story back in July of 2009 that told us of Julie Denton being hired by MCNA Dental AFTER they received a $20 million contract with our taxes from Julie Denton.

From http://blogs.browardpalmbeach.com/juice/2009/07/mcna_dental_julie_denton_kentucky.php

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 Julie Denton directly oversaw the Passport Health Plan which gave MCNA Dental its $20 million contract. MCNA then of course returned the favor by hiring Julie Denton. One more example of political patronage and unethical behavior by elected officials.

Alarmingly her own son filed suit against Julie for theft claiming she stole $15,000 from his trust fund set up by his Dad, and her ex husband, Tom Rose that she then used for her personal self.

Pattern of behavior? Who knows but there are many things not adding up with our elected officials at all levels and now is the time for each of us to stand up, be heard, and demand better including prosecution and forfeiture of office.

None of us would be exempt why should they?

In the meantime in case you haven't noticed. I'm back so get ready.......