Obama Administration Gives Green Light for Raids on Medical Marijuana Distributors

◼ Obama Administration Overrides 2009 Ogden Memo, Declares Open Season on Pot Shops in States Where Medical Marijuana Is Legal - Reason.com

The Department of Justice sent out a memo Wednesday instructing the head of the Drug Enforcement Administration and leading officials in the U.S. Attorneys Office to treat medical marijuana shops as top priorities for prosecutors and drug investigators.

◼ Obama Administration Gives Green Light for Raids on Medical Marijuana Distributors - Volokh

Back in October 2009, the Obama Justice Department issued a memo that some interpreted as discouraging federal raids on medical marijuana dispensaries operating in states where medical marijuana is permitted under state law. I pointed out at the time that the memo imposed few if any genuine restrictions on federal prosecution of medical marijuana producers. Certainly, it fell far short of implementing Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign promise to stop medical marijuana prosecutions in states where medical marijuana is legal.

Now the Justice Department has issued a new memo to federal prosecutors emphasizing that it has no intention of discouraging federal medical marijuana prosecutions, regardless of state law

◼ The Memo

Jason Bruce ‘J-Bird’ Hunsucker's story of the murder of Darrel Hanger Sr.

◼ Man on the Run - tworiverstribune.com via ◼ lostcoastoutpost.com
Hunsucker said he was asked to drive his sister Sonia Hunsucker and her boyfriend Jackson Surber to the residence to burglarize the home. He was driving a stolen vehicle, a 2006 silver Toyota Tacoma, but didn’t say whether or not he was responsible for the theft of the truck.

Hunsucker was with his girlfriend, Samantha Smoker-Machado, who he said came along for the ride, but did not intend to participate in the burglary.

He said they pulled into the driveway, a short paved entrance way about 20 ft. long that connected to a carport.

“Someone with us said something had been moved, so we started to back out,” he said.

Hunsucker said Sonia and Surber had previously burglarized the same residence and went back with the impression that nobody was home.

“Before I could even hit reverse, I seen people running up behind us,” he said. “I locked my door real fast and yelled at everybody else to lock their doors too.”

Hunsucker said he was having a difficult time keeping the vehicle running and placing it in reverse because a screwdriver was used to start the vehicle when it was stolen....read the rest at the link...

Once they arrived at their friend’s house, Hunsucker contacted a family member, who agreed to drive them to Eureka. Hunsucker claims he did not tell his family what happened, but that they had gotten into a wreck.

However, the following day, once they got news that Hanger had died, Hunsucker’s family member in Eureka asked him to leave. He said he then visited a friend in the area that was a physician and his wounds were cleaned.

Questions about who the doctor is...

◼ TRT Editorial: Hunsucker Should Turn Himself In - tworiverstribune.com
Prior coverage:

◼ Hunsucker Outruns Police Wednesday Night
PRESS RELEASE, Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department

On June 29, 2011, approximately 10:30 p.m. a Humboldt County Sheriffs Deputy and Hoopa Tribal Police Officer were working in the Hoopa Area when they spotted an All Terrain Vehicle (A.T.V.) traveling southbound on State Route 96, North of Hostler Field Housing. The deputy and tribal officer attempted a traffic stop on the All Terrain Vehicle for vehicle code violations. When the deputy and tribal officer caught up to the All Terrain Vehicle they recognized the driver as wanted murder suspect Bruce Stallings-Hunsucker. Stallings–Hunsucker has a one million dollar murder warrant for his arrest out of Humboldt County Superior Court. The warrant is for his involvement in the killing of Darrell Hanger Sr. in Willow Creek.

After the deputy attempted to stop Stallings-Hunsucker using the patrol cars red light and siren, Stallings-Hunsucker fled on the All Terrain Vehicle, running stop signs and driving on the wrong side of the highway. The deputy and tribal police officers pursued Stallings-Hunsucker who periodically would travel on roads and trails in the area attempting to elude the officers. Stallings-Hunsucker was last seen by Hoopa Tribal Police Officers eastbound, about four miles up Big Hill Road, Hoopa, off Highway 96. Stallings-Hunsucker drove his vehicle off the highway where the patrol vehicles could not follow him. The deputy and Tribal Police officers later located Stalling-Hunsuckers All Terrain Vehicle and Helmet in the brush. They searched the area but could not locate him. Additional charges of felony evasion are being sought against Stallings-Hunsucker.

His description is: Bruce Jason Stallings-Hunsucker, also known as Bruce Hunsucker, 36 years old brown hair, brown eyes, five feet ten inches tall, 185 pounds, unknown clothing description

Anyone with information regarding Stallings-Hunsucker is requested to contact the Sheriffs Office immediately, 707-445-7251.

◼ Hunsucker Escapes Deputies on Quad Down River - tworiverstribune.com
◼ Third Suspect in Hanger Homicide Captured*** - tworiverstribune.com
(***comment on that article includes this: Call the Humboldt County District Attorney- Paul Gallegos- and ask him why Sonia Hunsucker was realeased to terroize when she was arrested in connection to a murder in Eureka just last year- (707) 445-7411. The death of Mr. Hanger could have been prevented had the local police been effective in their duties. Please take a stand. Please fight for justice! Jane Doe Weitchpec, CA)
◼ $1 Million Arrest Warrant for Homicide Suspects - tworiverstribune.com
◼ Sheriff’s Searching for Suspects in Weitchpec Robbery

Third suspect arrested in Willow Creek homicide, robbery case; Bruce Stallings-Hunsucker still at large
05/19/2011 - The third of four suspects sought in a Willow Creek homicide investigation was arrested in Eureka on Tuesday, and deputies are continuing to search for the last one. The Eureka Police Department's...

Hunsucker pleads guilty to eluding officers
01/31/2009 - Sonia Hunsucker, a 28-year-old woman from Eureka, pleaded guilty in Humboldt County Superior Court Thursday to the felony charge of eluding an officer....

$1 million warrants out for Willow Creek shooting suspects
05/11/2011 - A Humboldt County judge issued $1 million arrest warrants Tuesday for Samantha Kristen Machado, aka “Samantha Smoker,” 26, and Bruce Jason Stallings-Hunsucker, 36, both of Eureka....

Reward offered for information into homicide
06/08/2011 - The Willow Creek Volunteer Fire Department is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of a suspect sought in a Willow Creek homicide investigation. Three of the...

Investigation into botched burglary continues; victim remembered as a “wonderful father” and an “upstanding man”
05/07/2011 - An autopsy and toxicity test are scheduled today for Darrell Hanger Sr., the 50-year-old man who was shot and killed in a burglary attempt that went awry at a residence on the 400 block of Sunset...

Humboldt County Sheriff's Office still searching for suspects in Willow Creek homicide; memorial service for Darrell Hanger Sr. set for this Saturday
05/10/2011 - While the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office continues its investigation into a shooting that killed a Willow Creek man last week, the community he served is preparing to honor his life. What...

Murder suspect spotted, remains at large
05/21/2011 - The last outstanding suspect sought in a Willow Creek homicide investigation was spotted by law enforcement Friday, prompting an unsuccessful search by the California Highway Patrol and the Humboldt...

Three wanted after home invasion in Weitchpec
04/12/2011 - The Humboldt County Sheriff's Office is searching for three suspects believed to have been involved in an armed home invasion robbery Sunday night in Weitchpec. At about 8:30 p.m., deputies were...

Eureka woman arrested after high speed chase
01/23/2009 - A high speed chase from Del Norte into Humboldt County ended Thursday with the alleged driver of a stolen vehicle, who reportedly drove the wrong way on Highway 101 in an attempt to evade...

Recurring search term: www.google.com — humboldt county district attorney's office investigation

Yes. Something is up.

Developing

A lot of interesting searches, from interesting places. Hmmmmmmm......

Arcata man pleads guilty to molestation charges

◼ Arcata man pleads guilty to molestation charges

Arcata resident Wayne Thomas Bukowski, 37, pleaded guilty Monday to one count each of continuous sexual abuse of a minor and committing a lewd and lascivious act with a minor, attempting to dissuade a witness while out on bail and three violations of a court order to have no contact with the victim.

Bukowski is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge W. Bruce Watson on July 25. He faces up to 20 years, 8 months in prison and will be required to register as a sex offender for life.

McKinleyville man held to answer for death of Jerry George

Update 6/28/2019

◼ Will the handling of convicted murderer Jacob Steele's jury trial work in his favor today?

This afternoon, there is a Franklin hearing/resentencing scheduled for Jacob Charles Steele. He was convicted of second degree murder of Jerry George in 2012. As of today, Steele is not eligible for parole until 2034....

◼ McKinleyville man held to answer for death of Jerry George - TS

A Humboldt County Superior Court judge ruled that Jacob Charles Steele will be held to answer to a charge of murder.

After a three-day preliminary hearing that ended Monday, Judge Christopher Wilson ruled there is sufficient evidence to hold Jacob Steele, 23, of McKinleyville, to stand trial on charges of first degree murder for the death of Jerry George, who went missing over a year ago and is believed dead.

Jacob Steele, who faces an additional count of making a criminal threat, remains in the Humboldt County jail with his bail set at $1 million.

Investigators from the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office and members of Eureka's Problem Oriented Policing Unit arrested Jacob Steele in March 2010 after discovering evidence that George had been a victim of homicide.

While investigators have not yet found George's body, court records show that they did find evidence of the alleged crime. Declarations in support of arrest warrants filed by the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office and the District Attorney's Office state that a confidential informant first told the sheriff's office that George was shot and killed at Jacob Steele's apartment.

According to court documents, witnesses said that George was at the apartment on Jan. 21, 2010, with Jacob Steele, his girlfriend Lindsay Devore, his cousin Richard Steele and another friend, Shawn Hof. Hof told investigators that Jacob Steele and George got into an argument, and then Jacob Steele told everyone but George to leave the apartment. Court documents state that Jacob Steele then shot George.

No charges in toddler drowning; Deputy DA: 'Does not rise to the level of criminal negligence'

◼ No charges in toddler drowning; Deputy DA: 'Does not rise to the level of criminal negligence'

The Humboldt County District Attorney's Office has decided not to file criminal charges stemming from the March 6 drowning death of a 20-month-old boy in Eureka.

”At the end of the day, it is a horrible family tragedy, but the conduct does not rise to the level of criminal negligence,” said Deputy District Attorney Kelly Neel. “We have decided not to file criminal charges as it relates to this child's death.”

Caiden Archie Cathey died March 6 when, according to officials, he fell from a dock in Eureka's Halvorsen Park into Humboldt Bay while still strapped into his stroller and drowned.

Judge to decide on Tsurai village civil suit discovery; tree service joins civil suit, waiting on criminal case's conclusion

◼ link

The suit alleges that former Trinidad Planning Commission Sam Pennisi and his wife Sharon Ferrett hired Coastal Tree Service to clear a 105-foot-by-210-foot area on the 12.6 acre historic site, knowing that it would be a violation of the law to do so. City officials said they were unaware of the project, and put a stop to it when they saw work being done in June 2010. Pennisi resigned in August.

The ceremonial burial site sits below the Memorial Lighthouse in Trinidad and is located adjacent to the couple's property.

According to the court calendar, the civil suit has become a 15-party lawsuit, and includes nine members of the Tsurai Ancestral Society, the city of Trinidad, and Coastal Tree Service and its owner Tom Head.

Timothy Wykle, an attorney for Pennisi and Ferrett, said most of the civil complaint was “piggy backed” on the criminal charges brought on by the Humboldt County District Attorney's Office, which he said over charged the couple.

”Both the civil and criminal matters have serious issues surrounding consent, lack of damages, standing and over charging,” he said. “These issues will eventually all be sorted out.”

The District Attorney's Office filed criminal charges against the couple in February, including one felony count of vandalism each for Pennisi and Ferrett, as well as misdemeanor charges of trespassing, destroying standing timber and injuring a historical object. The case has a preliminary hearing scheduled for July 28.

On a day to day basis nothing changes, with or without Chavez at home: food scarcity, electric blackouts, crime, unemployment, infrastructure degradation, health care worker strikes, etc, keep their steady progression. This is what happens in a thugocracy, this novel variant of autocracy that is been revealed to us this June. Indeed, for all the adjectives we were applying to describe the Chavez regime the one that fitted it best was the government of thugs, by thugs, for thugs, or thugocracy.

◼ Thugocracy in crisis: mystery disease and cancelled summits for Chavez - Daniel in Venzuela

The EPIC Pot Bust is in the news again... Fieldbrook man held without bail on federal drug charge

◼ Fieldbrook man held without bail on federal drug charge

A Fieldbrook man was arrested Tuesday on charges of conspiracy to distribute marijuana out of Harrisburg, Pa.

James Edward Shelton, 37, was arrested by Humboldt County Sheriff's deputies at approximately 11 a.m. in the Humboldt County Courthouse on a no bail federal arrest warrant.

The charges brought against Shelton stem from an investigation that took place at his Fieldbrook home earlier this month.

Officials from the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshals Service assisted the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration out of Santa Rosa in uncovering an alleged major marijuana grow operation at Shelton's residence in Fieldbrook on June 9, while serving a state search warrant as part of an ongoing investigation.

Shelton and Amber Zo Jamieson, 28, were arrested on suspicion of cultivation and possession of marijuana for sale.

Authorities reported seizing 298 marijuana plants ranging in height from 1- to 5-feet inside the home and a nearby outbuilding. In addition, 10 extra-large duffel bags were reportedly found filled with 495 pounds of processed marijuana stored in vacuum-sealed, one-pound bags.

◼ Fieldbrook pot bust is EPIC - The Mirror

You can bet this investigation is ongoing and far-reaching.

District Attorney Paul Gallegos, Poster boy for "Vote Local Control" begging for big bucks from - wait for it - out of town - makes the paper. $250-$2,500 a pop dinner

◼ Pot lobbying group to host Gallegos fundraiser; Sacramento soiree for DA charges $250 a plate and more - TS
Humboldt County District Attorney Paul Gallegos is still looking to pay off some campaign debt and hopes to get a lot of help Wednesday at a pricey Sacramento fundraiser sponsored by a medical marijuana lobbying organization.

...$41,000 in outstanding loans, including $26,000 owed to his wife, local attorney Joan Gallegos.

I'm hearing that the local boys aren't ponying up the dough - probably because even they realize that he is a faker, and has let everyone down.

◼ For Gallegos, ‘multitasking’ means pandering to growers and paying off campaign debt all at the same time - The Mirror (image source)

◼ "Vote Local Control" Poster Boy, in his own words. Say anything.

This global warming is getting so bad

It's shifting from gorgeous, sunny and warm to cold and rainy all in a couple of hours.

”The Intelliwaste study had been, we thought, designed to find out whether or not the Samoa facility was being operated in a reasonably efficient manager,” Boyd said. “And the next thing we knew was that it was then being used as a justification to go outside Humboldt County for a request for proposals for recycling by the waste management authority. We were feeling pretty persecuted by that."

◼ Outcry against Willits contract brings HWMA, ACRC full circle; entities agree to discuss authority's potential acquisition of center's Samoa plant - Times Standard

Uh, you were going to CHARGE "$65 per ton to process its recycling" and the other guys were going to PAY the authority $8 per ton for the same service.... I think some people MIGHT feel a bit "persecuted" by being ripped off, don't you?

"Currently, the ACRC charges $50 per ton to process recycling," and you're stabbing in the dark, saying you'll drop it to $0?

Persecuted, nothing. Something is rotten in Denmark. (Arcata) Obviously, it wasn't/isn't "being operated in a reasonably efficient (manner)."

"Keeping it local" shouldn't mean being ripped off. This isn't a couple dollars difference, it's a spread of nearly $100 a ton. Bear in mind that Willits was going to have to HAUL it, incurring additional expense on their end, and they can STILL beat you by that much. Wow.

How long has this been going on, and how much has it cost the people - who have a right to expect their interests to be looked out for much better than this.

No?
_________________________

Odd. heraldo has a post up saying the Arcata Recycling Center is announcing that they are DROPPING their fees fees they charge you to drop off bottles and cans... "Beginning July 1, 2011 ACRC is reducing the facility fee for drop off of these materials to zero (the current fee is five dollars per visit). Certain materials, such as electronic waste, appliances, and fluorescent tubes, will still require a small fee to cover their safe handling.

Drop off recycling of mixed paper (newspaper, magazines, cardboard, and office pack) and containers (glass bottles and jars, aluminum cans and formed containers, steel cans, and #1-#7 plastic bottles and containers) will now be offered as a free service."

WTH? That's FREE in McKinleyville, and always has been. Arcata's been CHARGING? $5 a visit?

Explain.

Garr Nielsen fired without cause

◼ CHIEF NIELSEN FIRED - heraldo June 24th, 2011 at 11:41
◼ Heraldo: EPD Chief Nielsen Dismissed Lost Coast Outpost June 24th, 2011 at 12:21 p.m.
◼ Nielsen out at EPD TS - June 24, 2011 12:30:34 PM PDT
◼ EPD Chief Garr Nielsen Fired The Journal June 24th, 2011 at 12:29 P.M. (but quotes TS's 12:30 story)

◼ EPD Chief Nielsen fired after 4 years; Harpham named interim replacement - 06/25/2011 02:40:18 AM

Clendenen cleared of conflict of interest complaint

UPDATE: ◼ Clendenen cleared of conflict of interest complaint; FPPC said there is 'insufficient evidence'

The Fair Political Practices Commission has cleared 2nd District Supervisor Clif Clendenen on allegations of a potential conflict of interest with his seat on the railroad authority.

The commission sent a letter, dated June 15, to Fortuna resident John Pelletier, who filed the complaint earlier this month. The letter stated, “after review by staff, it was determined that this complaint does not contain sufficient evidence to allege a violation of the Political Reform Act's conflict of interest provisions.”

According to a copy of the original complaint, Pelletier argued that Clendenen is violating the act by being a partner in his family business, Clendenen's Cider Works, which is located within 500 feet of the rail line the North Coast Railroad Authority (NCRA) makes decisions on.

”It seems a victory for Mr. Clendenen for now,” Pelletier said Thursday. He did not elaborate on his concerns.

Clendenen has served on the NCRA since 2009. The orchard property, which is owned by Clendenen's mother, is adjacent to the Northwestern Pacific Railroad Authority route.

”It seemed without merit, and I'm glad the FPPC concurs,” Clendenen said on Thursday.

7.2 Earthquake in Alaska – Tsunami Warning Canceled

◼ 7.2 Earthquake in Alaska – Tsunami Warning Canceled

Republican Representative Ron Paul and Democratic Representative Barney Frank, would be the first ever legislation designed to end the federal ban on marijuana.

◼ Lawmakers to introduce bill to legalize marijuana - Yahoo

LEGALIZE IT NOW.

In the Mailbox: The POT ADVOCATE DA wants $2,500 donations, the mask is off

Subject: Paul Gallegos Fundraiser

Dear Friend And Ally,

I hope this note finds you well. I am honored today to share with you a new and exciting development for the Medical Cannabis Industry in California. In an effort to strategically support the economic infrastructure and business interests of our industry, the California Cannabis Business League (CCBL) is being formed to support the people, the politics, and the future of the Medical Cannabis Industry in California.

The California Cannabis Business League would like to invite you to attend An Evening with Paul Gallegos. (See Attachment) Paul Gallegos is the District Attorney of Humboldt County. Paul is a leader in his community and he actively supports the medical cannabis industry throughout our state. The CCBL is proud to have Mr. Paul Gallegos serve on our Advisory Board. We encourage you to support Paul Gallegos and attend this event.

These are exciting times for the Medical Cannabis Industry. The CCBL is committed to creating jobs, advancing public safety, and providing new revenues to cities and communities. You will be receiving additional information about the California Cannabis Business League, and ways that you can participate and contribute. I thank you for your leadership and support of the Medical Cannabis Industry. I encourage you to attend the Paul Gallegos Fundraiser and learn more about the CCBL and its important mission. Thank you.

M. Max Del Real
President / CEO

California Capitol Solutions
916.717.2664 Capitol Office
916.720.0529 Capitol Fax
530.342.1455 District Office
530.267.8494 District Fax
max@calcapsol.com
www.calcapsol.com
***
An Evening With Paul Gallegos District Attorney, Humboldt County
The California Cannabis Business League (CCBL) is pleased to invite you to an evening social and networking engagement with Paul Gallegos to celebrate his support of the Medical Cannabis Industry and its exciting future in California.

WHEN: Wednesday, June 29, 2011; 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Midtown Sacramento, L Street Lofts, 1818 L Street, Suite 810.
RSVP: Jessica Ryan, jessica@thevologroup.com, (916) 538-6751
CONTRIBUTION LEVEL: $2,500 - Sponsor; $1,000; $500; $250

Campaign ID #: 1324372 Please Make Checks Payable to: Gallegos 2010
Treasure: Kevin Sumida Phone: 707-442-9000 Mailing Address: PO Box 1236 Eureka, CA 95502 FPPC: 866-275-3772
An Evening With
I plan to attend the Paul Gallegos event on June 29th: Yes/ No Feel free to contribute via check or via credit card by completing the form below.
Amount of contribution: $ _________________________ Campaign #1324372 Names: ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip: _____________________________________________________ Phone: _____________________________________________________________ Occupation: ________________________________________________________ Employer: __________________________________________________________ Signature: __________________________________________________________
Please make checks payable to: Citizens for District Attorney Paul Gallegos 2010 Please bring contributions in person, or mail contributions and this page to:
Gallegos 2010 PO Box 1236 Eureka, CA 95502
Credit Card: _____ Visa _____ MasterCard _____ AMEX _____ Discover Exact Name on Credit Card: __________________________________________ Credit Card Number: ________________________________________________ Exp. Date: __________________________________________________________ Signature: __________________________________________________________ This is my personal credit card and not a corporate card
Sponsored by the California Cannabis Business League
Please include this page with your contribution

Count the lies, spread this time by change.org

Dear ____________

Right now, Humboldt County, California, is home to some of the last remaining old-growth redwoods in the world. Many of Richardson Grove State Park’s trees have survived more than 1,000 years.

But as soon as July 1, Humboldt’s old-growth stands could be destroyed by an unnecessary CalTrans construction project to widen and “re-align” Highway 101 -- against the best interests of Humboldt County and California.

That’s why Aliana Lee Knapp-Prasek, who lives just 10 miles from the location of the proposed project, started a Change.org petition calling on Governor Jerry Brown and CalTrans to stop the project and protect Richardson Grove State Park’s irreplaceable trees.

These trees are integral to the park’s habitat -- a haven for endangered species like the northern spotted owl -- and represent an important part of California’s natural heritage.

Even CalTrans admits that “adverse effects to old-growth trees may be a significant impact to this unique natural community.”

Yet CalTrans plans to destroy 40 trees directly, and its overall effect will be even greater. More than 70 old-growth trees will be affected as CalTrans cuts through or paves over roots and compacts hundreds of cubic yards of soil in the area.

CalTrans claims the project will facilitate “goods movement” and make transportation safer, but large trucks already use the road without problems.

In fact, widening the road and subsequently increasing the speed limit will just make it harder for local truckers to compete with bigger businesses -- and make Highway 101 more dangerous.

On Tuesday, Aliana and other local residents will deliver a printed version of their Change.org petition to Governor Brown.

Add your name to help Aliana and other residents gather the 12,750 signatures they need to make the printed petition’s length the same as the height of the tallest tree in the park -- 340 feet -- and show Governor Brown how many of us care about saving one of the last stands of old-growth redwoods in the world:

http://www.change.org/petitions/defend-ancient-redwoods-save-richardson-grove-state-park

Thanks for taking action,

- Patrick and the Change.org team
*********************************

Aaaaaggggghhhh! "meth mouth"

◼ This is Your Mouth on Meth
◼ grotesque (google images)

Planning Commission Minutes have not been updated since March 24, 2011

◼ http://co.humboldt.ca.us/planning/commission/default.asp?pg=plan_comm_archives.asp

Someone really ought to fix that.

Is climate change raising sea levels, as Al Gore has argued — or are climate scientists doctoring the data?

◼ Faking sea level data? - HotAir

The University of Colorado’s Sea Level Research Group decided in May to add 0.3 millimeters — or about the thickness of a fingernail — every year to its actual measurements of sea levels, sparking criticism from experts who called it an attempt to exaggerate the effects of global warming.

One more example.

Worthless spendaholic legislators criticize Governor Brown - and blame Republicans

◼ Humboldt County education officials applaud Brown's veto; fate of redevelopment funds remains a question
◼ Brown vetoes budget: State Controller's Office says fate of lawmakers' paychecks uncertain

”By vetoing the Democrats' plan, I fear that we may go down the same path as in 2009,” she said in a statement. “At that time, then-Gov. Schwarzenegger played a high-stakes game of chicken for several months, but it was the people of this state who lost. ... says spendaholic Sen. Noreen Evans, D-Santa Rosa, who really needs her paycheck to pay for her own car now.

Blame, blame, blame - and taking no responsibility for her role - her and Chesbro both - in bringing the state of California to the brink of bankruptcy.

Worse - with the passage of Prop 25, they are free to continue spending more than they have without getting a 2/3 majority to approve.

"We don't have a spending problem, we have a revenue enhancement problem." (to quote former legislator Patty Berg.) That about sums up their mindset, and the reason why they refuse to deal with the problem.

Fortunately, Jerry Brown is no dummy. Though there's some reason to believe he vetoed the bill for the wrong reason - and he too is still engaged in the blame game.

◼ THE RIGHT VETO FOR THE WRONG REASON

Speaking of POT busts... What ever happened to Josh Hedlund? And Vilica LLC? And Steve Schectman?

◼ Beyond Vilica, Hedlund and Schectman's relationship is murky. In a letter to the federal probation office, Schectman said he took Hedlund under his wing as a paralegal and a clerk, and even tried to help him gain a State Bar apprenticeship.

However, after pleading guilty, Hedlund told the government that he had moved his office into Schectman's "to protect [my] documents from seizure by federal authorities," according to a DEA affidavit.

Hedlund entered his plea on Feb. 4, 2008, after preparing his holdings for forfeiture. On Feb. 3, Schectman resigned as Vilica's president. Hedlund's sentencing is scheduled for the end of this month; the government is seeking 63 months in prison.

That was Pubdate: Fri, 13 Feb 2009

EPIC Liars, tramps and thieves

◼ Major marijuana bust in Fieldbrook - TS

Law enforcement officers uncovered approximately $1.5 million worth of processed marijuana and about 300 marijuana plants at a residence on the 900 block of Rock Pit Road in Fieldbrook, officials announced Monday.

Officials from the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshals Service assisted the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration out of Santa Rosa in making the marijuana bust Thursday while serving a state search warrant as part of an ongoing investigation by the Santa Rosa DEA.

According to a press release by the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office, authorities arrested two suspects -- James Edward Shelton, 38, and Amber Zo Jamieson, 28 -- on suspicion of cultivation and possession of marijuana for sale.

Five other individuals on the property were detained and questioned but no additional arrests were made, said Humboldt County Sheriff's Office Sgt. Wayne Hanson. According to Hanson, as the Santa Rosa DEA office builds its case, individuals will likely be brought in and indicted on federal charges.

”I imagine there are a lot of scared people out there right now,” Hanson said.

Authorities reported seizing 298 marijuana plants ranging in height from 1 to 5 feet inside the home and a nearby outbuilding. In addition, 10 extra-large duffel bags were found filled with 495 pounds of processed marijuana stored in vacuum-sealed, one-pound bags.

”I cannot remember ever finding that many one-pound bags of marijuana in one place,” said Hanson, who was on scene when the warrant was served....

Future arrests of individuals associated with the pair are expected.

◼ Fieldbrook pot bust is EPIC - The Mirror

EPIC’s Amber Jamieson was arrested yesterday in a multi-agency pot bust in Fieldbrook that yielded a smidge under 500 pounds of processed marijuana, neatly packaged for resale, with a street value estimated at $1.5 million.

Jamieson’s significant other, James Shelton, who was similarly arrested at the Fieldbrook residence, has a less direct connection to the litigious enviro org: Mr. Shelton–shocker alert–is a “glass-blowing artist” whose magical objets d’art are sold at EPIC’s gift shop.

Jamieson graduated from Humboldt State University with a degree in–wait for it–Natural Resources Economics. Despite the stupidity on full display now, she won an academic award at HSU and was photographed, possibly just for our amusement, standing next to a fellow award winner by the name of Soran “Rio” Anderson.

Yeah, I remember Soran, too, that was a funny story.

A "coalition of environmental groups"

◼ The usual suspects. Environmental coalition threatens North Coast Railroad Authority with lawsuit
A coalition of environmental groups has warned the North Coast Rail Authority that it will file a lawsuit if the agency certifies an environmental impact report for the reconstruction of a rail line that would operate between Lombard and Willits....

The predatory litigious orgs strike again.

Conflict 101 - UPDATE: Clendenen cleared of conflict of interest complaint

UPDATE: ◼ Clendenen cleared of conflict of interest complaint; FPPC said there is 'insufficient evidence'

The Fair Political Practices Commission has cleared 2nd District Supervisor Clif Clendenen on allegations of a potential conflict of interest with his seat on the railroad authority.

The commission sent a letter, dated June 15, to Fortuna resident John Pelletier, who filed the complaint earlier this month. The letter stated, “after review by staff, it was determined that this complaint does not contain sufficient evidence to allege a violation of the Political Reform Act's conflict of interest provisions.”

According to a copy of the original complaint, Pelletier argued that Clendenen is violating the act by being a partner in his family business, Clendenen's Cider Works, which is located within 500 feet of the rail line the North Coast Railroad Authority (NCRA) makes decisions on.

”It seems a victory for Mr. Clendenen for now,” Pelletier said Thursday. He did not elaborate on his concerns.

Clendenen has served on the NCRA since 2009. The orchard property, which is owned by Clendenen's mother, is adjacent to the Northwestern Pacific Railroad Authority route.

”It seemed without merit, and I'm glad the FPPC concurs,” Clendenen said on Thursday.

◼ Complaint alleges railroad bordering Clendenen property is conflict of interest; supervisor says claim not an issue - TS
It's interesting where this shows up:
◼ humboldtmirror
and where it does not:
◼ humboldtherald

Eric has picked it up:
◼ Complaint filed with FPPC against Clif Clendenen - Sohum Parlance II

Adding prior coverage:
◼ Kier nabs NCRA appointment; County counsel: Clendenen can vote despite FPPC complaint - Times Standaard

A divided Humboldt County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to approve the appointment of William Kier to the North Coast Railroad Authority Board of directors.
The board's 3-2 vote, with Supervisors Virginia Bass and Jimmy Smith dissenting, came after more than a dozen members of the public addressed the board, with many of them openly lobbying for the board to appoint former NCRA Executive Director Dan Hauser....

Much of Tuesday's public comment was spent debating the concept of “rail banking” -- using out-of-service rail corridors for pedestrian trails or other uses until the corridor is needed again for rail service. A number of speakers said “rail banking” would bring an end to the railroad in Humboldt County and to the economic opportunities that would come with a revitalized rail line.

Jane Woodward said that, at a time when the nation is investing in rail, as is philanthropist Warren Buffett, it would be foolish for the board not to support revitalizing the railroad.

◼ Councilwoman Linda Atkins resigns from NCRA board - Times Standard
◼ Supes appoint Linda Atkins to North Coast Railroad Authority - Times Standard

The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors voted 4-1 to approve the appointment this week, with 5th District Supervisor Jill Duffy dissenting and adamantly stating her opposition -- not to Atkins, but to the application process.

Among her primary objections was the treatment of long-time NCRA board member Charles Olivier, whose seat Atkins will assume, as well as the lack of complete information on the applicant's philosophies and the related discussions held out of the public process.

◼ Supes Tap Atkins for Rail Authority - Humboldt Sentinel

Supervisor Clif Clendenen, the other Humboldt County rep on the NCRA since shortly after his election last November, said the board had a variety of good candidates to choose from to entrust with an incredible asset like the railroad -- but then implied the need for increased trail construction to be met by himself and the new appointee.

“I’m excited to recommend Eureka City Councilmember Linda Atkins for this position,” he said. “She appreciates the multiple-use opportunities of our right-of-way.”

◼ Choo-Choo Politics: The Poll! - Lost Coast Outpost

◼ Railroad authority says rail not dead - Times Standard

But, if it is up to that "coalition of environmental groups" it will be as they are bound and determined to kill it. Question is, will it be with the help of complicit Supervisors?

One for Cap:

◼ DERAILED: Is ethics complaint the end of the line for Clendenen as NCRA director? - The Mirror
....◼ Clendenen FPPC complaint

Once upon a time we had men who risked lives and limbs to carve their way across a continent. Through desert, granite cliffs, and across mighty rivers.

Now, the sandalmen plot ways to keep a rail line from being restored. And the question is always, why?

For whatever reason - I'm in moderation at the Mirror

Since May 29th. So, I waited, but... on the Richard Salzman Post, people in the thread are saying things like this:
Cell Block D, on May 29, 2011 at 9:08 am said:

It takes brave men like Richard to show us how conservative and corporate-owned the Arcata City Council is.

Power to the people!

So, I just want to say"

Brave?????? Bullshit.

Sneaking around sticking stickers on parking meters in the dark of night? Anonymous hit pieces in plain brown wrappers? Phony names for his self congratulatory/hit piece letters to the editor? The Web-Of-Lies? Worse, using the names of people whose caretakers said they couldn’t even sign their name much less write a letter to the editor?

I don’t think “brave” is the right term.

Trying to rehabilitate his image – the only thing you can say this time is he was forced to use his own name because the supply of willing dupes has dried up.

The Peter Principle

◼ Baykeeper Pete expands his territory

Arcata turns down $8 per ton in revenue, choosing to pay $65 per ton instead.

◼ Arcata opts to stick with ACRC for recycling needs; Promotes developing countywide plan

But, hey, they kept it local.

Judge to review EPD officer's personnel file; DA looking for evidence relating to criminal case

◼ Judge to review EPD officer's personnel file; DA looking for evidence relating to criminal case - TS