Comments by AndersonMom

Written on Letter to the Editor: July 29, 2009:

The Fireworks were definitely awesome. We'd never made it a full day affair until this year due to the young age of our children but it was so great that it will continue as a full day celebration annually from now on. We had to pry them away from the water slides to dry them off in time for the fire works. The barbecue was fantastic food as well! Thank you Anderson Explodes!

Written on Fire Chief Piccinini resigns :

Hatred at the firefighters? Wow, it's over and you are still twisting everything. And you were the only one spewing hatred. Standing up for yourself and standing against someone who consistently perverts the law for her and her supporters selfish schemes is not hatred, it's a strong desire to take out the trash. Many of the firefighters were stuck in this mess and afraid for their jobs if they stood with chief. They know that they have support and someday that attitude against them which has given Unions a bad attitude in the past, will be changed so they can enjoy their job AND their freedom of speech. As for CHIEF lying, uh...no! Again you are throwing blame on him and off of your friend. Most of what has been stated here has come from the mouths of Norma, Keith, Butch, and others involved on "their side". If I'm wrong, please show me precisely wear somebody said "Chief said....." It simply didn't happen. Thank God this stress is over for Chief. May he and his family be blessed. But remember, it is the "Concerned Citizens for...Anderson..." not the citizens for chief. It is merely the injustice toward him that brought people together. I, for one, will not be disappearing into the shadows just because he is being forced to move on with his life. I am here. I am watching. I am listening. And I have no plans of shutting up. They may ask me to, but like the old saying goes. "They can want in one hand and spit in the other and see which one fills up the fastest."

Written on Details absent as fire board tells attorney to take action:

Might want to be careful there, Southcounty1, when you remove your gloves you leave fingerprints that can permanently attach you to your actions.

As for strangely silent, hmm....I'm sorry, I didn't realize that my presence here was so desired by you and your friends. I've taken a few days to spend time with my children during their summer break. If I'd realized you would be going into such hate-filled withdrawals by my absence, I would have kept a computer close by and gotten online when the kids were asleep.

As for threatening a lawsuit, I doubt there is anything written in these comments or in the letters submitted that isn't covered by the Freedom of Speech. Of course, people that usually yell "I'm gonna sue" seem to be those, in my opinion, who either watch way too many of those 30 minute court shows on TV or are so desperate to get the spotlight off of them that they'll try anything.

As for trying to create problems for local business people by your list above, only one thing stuck out to me. Are you all really so scared by a group of Senior Citizens that you list them here? Better hope nobody tries anything over there. If my parents or grandparents lived there and succumbed to any sort of violence after your post, it is I who would be hiring a lawyer and discussing you inciting such a thing. That is an arrestable offense I believe. ;-)

Written on Critics quickly confuse news and commentary:

HeardEnough wrote:
i can no longer reply on your publication for the "truth".

Then please, stop replying. You stated that people are here under "user names". I'll make you a deal. I will post my real name as soon as you do. At least that way, you and I can discuss over the phone or perhaps face to face what a "bonafide whack job" I am. If you are going to say things about people, you should know them. I know Norma. I know Keith. I know Butch. I've said nothing that I wouldn't say in a court of law. That which I've stated seriously has been the truth and may God strike me dead if I've lied. Why lie though? They've done enough to talk about that lies aren't necessary. I have the right to speak my opinion and since I am a legal adult, nobody can stop that or speak for me with out my authorization. So, I speak my opinion here. Of course, I've also spoken it in other places and will not be quiet whether you believe me a whack job or not. The AVP has done a great job keeping their stories impartial. Letters to the editor are NOT FROM AVP. They are TO AVP. Editorials are from the Author, again not a story from the paper. So please, before you bash AVP, take a moment to gather your facts. Even if AVP didn't have a comment section, there would be some available avenue online. Through comments, blogs, self-published stories, and independent websites, this story and these opinions would still be out there.

Written on Fire board quiet about Chief Piccinini's future:

Question: How can anyone run a board if you make irrational decisions such has you few few have made here?

Answer: I hope and pray some of the people commenting campaign for a place on the board. They seem to understand that no person has the right to RUN A BOARD. Whomever is on the Fire Board should be PART OF A TEAM. And just for you, I won't answer about how the board has been run by Norma for too long and the point of view of RUNNING the board and running everything else in her life is what has her in trouble with so many voters. ;-)

More people in the public are becoming irritated? Is that why I'm getting phone calls and emails along with neighbors commenting each day that they want to be involved with ending the fiasco of Norma Comnick in a public position? Hm...irritate away folks!

Written on Fire board quiet about Chief Piccinini's future:

Isn't it funny how people start calling names when they've been proven wrong? Let's talk about some definitions here. ::Opens her great big book of Anderson definitions::

"Whack job" = A person who cares enough about her town to stand up to Norma Comnick, speaks facts about Norma's crooked practices, and believes 100% in a God who loves and cares for His people instead of dictating and ruling by fear.

Okay, guess I'm guilty there.

"Dictator" - one who has absolute control.

Since when did God remove our free will so He could have absolute control over us? He isn't a dictator. You just don't have a clue or a real relationship with Him. I doubt you've ever had a real conversation with Him. And, yes, that is possible.

Anderson"Legend" - A person from history whom stories, usually unverifiable, are told. Stories which become archaic or obsolete in time.

"Heard Enough" - A situation when a person feels they have enough information on a certain topic and depart all future conversations or information gathering on the subject.

Sorry, but this "whack job" won't lower herself enough to call demeaning names. Name calling is usually done by those who are emotionally distraught and trying to prove a point when, in fact, they are making themselves the butt of the joke.

Written on Fire board quiet about Chief Piccinini's future:

First off...3 out of 5 is a majority so the other two votes don't really matter. If Comnick, Shaefer, and Webster want Chief gone...he's gone. That's the same fight Yarbrough and Hunt have in the City Council. This is why people are discussing recall, to give the city a chance to truly thrive for the first time in years. Now, on to the real reason of this post.

AndersonLegend says "God has cardinal knowledge over us all; we would be fools to fight against our dictator."

Question 1: Cardinal knowledge?
That is the information given to a Catholic Cardinal and has nothing to do with God. Did you mean carnal knowledge?

Question 2: We would be fools to fight against our dictator. Is that how you think of the Almighty God?
You believe He is a dictator like some Stalin sitting on a Heavenly throne? Wow, my heart grieves for you. Anybody who views God as a dictator has never really had a true relationship with Him. God is "Heavenly Father" meaning He is better and more loving and more giving that any Dad on earth. He is always there even when you feel alone. He understands and feels when you are having hard times and rejoices when you rejoice in life. He will never walk away from you even if you choose to try to run from Him. "Daddy God" which is how I think of Him and what I call Him when I pray, has led me through more than one person should ever have to endure. He is not my dictator, He is my Father. And I know He is leading me and others who are praying over every step to take to fix what has gone wrong in Anderson.

Remember, God is light. What happens in shadows is revealed when the light appears. That is a major reason why so much of this perversion with Comnick is coming out. The light is here and is here to stay.

Written on Fire board quiet about Chief Piccinini's future:

If they haven't earned the respect of the voters then they've earned the respect of those who appointed them.

Uh...hello? The three appointed themselves. Nuff said.

As for the story...the Fire Board "invites the Grand Jury". What? You are inviting them? As if you had the legal right to say no? That would be like a child abuser inviting the police over to arrest him or a drunk driver inviting the family of the person he murdered in a car wreck to sue him. It just doesn't make sense because it isn't their choice.

Written on Fire board quiet about Chief Piccinini's future:

HeardEnough, I don't think you are understanding this. Keith Webster said 2 weeks ago that there would be NO OPPORTUNITY FOR OPEN COMMENTS last night. He only asked because nobody was there. In other words, he lied 2 weeks ago.

Written on Fire board quiet about Chief Piccinini's future:

The media displayed them as corrupt? I wonder what paper he's been reading. The media has played fair. It's those with guts enough to comment who say they are corrupt. He needs to get his facts straight. And what was the purpose of being there? Webster had stated at the last meeting that there would be no public comment last night. Did he not keep his word and ask for public comment because he knew only few people were there? One more reason to show why he can't be trusted. And I don't believe the "vote" by the Firefighters. There are a lot more than three who say they are afraid to speak the truth and speak their minds in order to support chief. Sounds to me like Bellinger runs a vote rather similar to that of Iran.

Written on Anderson girl hurt in horse rollover, returns to rodeo :

Corey, I thank God you weren't seriously injured. Horses are beautiful creatures but can be dangerous at times. Stay safe and I hope to hear great word of your future endeavors in the Rodeo.

Written on Anderson Fire board to resume hearing investigation on Thursday:

I just found the positive in all of this!

Anybody with a brain knows the poo poo that has been spread by Comnick and her corrupt supporters for years. Once she is gone, she can't spread it anymore. It will sink into the ground and disappear. And remember folks, from the land once covered in poop, beautiful roses appear!

Written on Board hears investigation of Anderson fire chief, delays ruling:

Observer, you have some good questions and they deserve answers so I'll give you what I can.

1. Absolutely, this is why it is time for the truth about Comnick, Webster, and Schaefer be told. Unfortunately, they prefer their agenda over the truth so the truth will not be setting Chief Joe free unless they recuse themselves and go with public sentiment for the first time in their political careers.

2. Then it is time people force the issue to be dealt with. We aren't talking religion, abortion, gay rights, or any other "hot button issue". The real issue here is honesty and decency. There is nothing honest or decent by people paying off politicians or politicians bending the laws (or just plain ignoring them) for their own selfish desires.

3. I have been in the public eye of this area my entire life. Since I was old enough to understand what was happening, very little time goes by without somebody asking me "Aren't you **** daughter?" or "How are your parents?" because they've been well known and well received in this area for nearly 40 years.

4. I would agree that there aren't enough Fire Fighters in our area. They work very hard to keep the rest of us safe. And I can say one thing from experience...bandaids melt in fires. So, you are right, another bandaid here won't fix anything. The wound needs to be opened, treated, and allowed to heal properly and completely.

5. The number of Fire Fighters varies. Depending on the priority (meaning size of fire, size of car accident, etc) of the incident, I've seen anywhere from 2 to 12 Fire Fighters show up. Of course, the 12 exploded into dozens since that was at the Happy Valley fire several years back. At night, I've never seen a fire or a car accident where a volunteer didn't show up in their own car before the truck could get there. And yes, at my old house, I saw plenty of night time car accidents and got to know many of the volunteers living in that area by name. That's why I believe so many of them are such awesome people.

Written on Anderson Fire board to resume hearing investigation on Thursday:

::walks in wearing her rain hat, rain coat, gloves, rubber boots, and ski mask:: 8 hours til it all hits the fan and starts flying around Anderson...I'm covered...anybody else?

Hmm...maybe I should wear this while I volunteer my time to get these people recalled for everything they have done to destroy honesty in Anderson.

Warning to Norma...I heard you think this will all disappear after tonight. WRONG! We're here to stay and make sure you do not stay in your position. Be an adult for the first time in your 50+ years of practice as one...stop this now and give the Chief back his job.

Written on Anderson Fire board to resume hearing investigation on Thursday:

"3. Total costs of the investigation have not been determined in that the investigation is not yet complete."

What do they mean the investigation is not yet complete? Didn't Webster say they were just waiting on the written report so they could make a decision? Didn't Purcell give the report orally 2 weeks ago? How can he give a report if the investigation isn't done? How can they make a decision tomorrow night if the investigation isn't done? How can they only be waiting on the written report if the investigation isn't done?

So, okay, extremely blunt question here....who's lying? Did Webster lie 2 weeks ago saying they were getting the oral report and awaiting the written report? Or, is Nichols lying here saying the investigation isn't done? Did Nichols make a big mistake in one of his first official documents as acting Chief? Please folks, at least get your stories straight!

Looks like one more inconsistency for a real investigation.

Written on Anderson council takes first step in reinstating The Vineyards subdivision:

At least it is starting to get straightened out now. Such a shame some of the obvious needs weren't lined up before homes started going up the last time, Anderson could be growing as people move into that neighborhood by now. But, at least they are getting stuff squared away now. I'm sure that area will be a great addition to Anderson when it is all done.

Written on Anderson Fire board to resume hearing investigation on Thursday:

in response to Reddinglegaleagle:

Allowing a private citizen to look into the personnel file of an employee as well as conduct an illegal investigation is a violation of civil rights. Maybe it’s time to contact the American Civil Liberties Union or at the very least a very strong civil litigator.

I agree that it is a violation of civil rights but isn't there an issue with the federal privacy act as well? It took a while but I read through the Privacy Act of 1974 and I'm not seeing where it says a company can give the personnel record of an individual to a private citizen. Not to mention that giving Chief's file to a citizen could open the Chief up to possible identity theft by anyone who may have had access to the file while it was in the possession of Purcell in a car or in the hotel. Please understand that I'm not calling anyone a thief or saying this happened; however, if the information is just sitting there, someone may have not resisted the urge and peeked. Chief Joe could have long term damage due to this illegal investigation.

Written on Letter alleges foul play by Anderson fire board:

If Neil Purcell was employed by the Police Department he would have been required by law to identify himself as such and show his identification before he interviewed a single person. I have specifically asked 2 of the people interviewed if he showed proper identification. While they could not discuss the questions he asked, they both said he showed no ID. So, Purcell was hired by the Fire Board who legally have no say over the Police Department.

Of course, three members of the Fire Board are also City Council and they do have legal interaction. IF city powers were used as all, then my understanding is that a full report of their actions must be given to the other two members of the City Council aka Hunt and Yarbrough.

It "appears" there is a conflict since Purcell was given a city car but a legal, honest, and impartial investigation would need to happen to see if that was purely Scott Morgan's decision or a choice made by the Fire Board using their City Council power. Knowing what I do of Mr. Morgan, I don't believe he did that purely on his own and most likely wasn't made aware that Purcell didn't have the legal right to investigate in Anderson.

Written on Wintu memorial is healing medicine for Mother Earth and feather people:

I remember the concern shown when Wal-Mart wanted to build and the signs of the village were found. It's wonderful to see the statue go up as such a clear sign of honor for the Indian people in our area. While my heritage runs several generations back now, seeing that statue each time I go to Wal-Mart will bring a smile to my face and my heart.

Written on Letter alleges foul play by Anderson fire board:

Wow, HeardEnough, are you going overboard or what? "you people are absolutely classless in you (Um...your?) pursuit of hate". I don't know who you are but I sincerely hope you don't honestly equate people disagreeing with you with people hating you in your personal life. A person who would do that would be very lonely indeed.

As for what I would or wouldn't say in public...I have been known for 20 years for speaking my mind. My dad used to say, "Girl, you've got more guts..." as he would roll his eyes when I would stand up to someone nearly always on another person's behalf. Of course, my mother would finish it by saying, "Yeah, but somebody's got to do it and maybe God sent her here for that purpose."

Do I stand up for what I believe in and for those who are wrongfully attacked? Absolutely, 100% and I'd never give it a second thought. Would I look at Scott Morgan and say that I think he is an absolutely wonderful man who made a very large mistake in giving Neil Purcell a city car and a place at City Hall to work in for an office? Yes, I absolutely would. Just like I would tell Andy Nichols that I think he's a nice guy but he's forgotten that Fire Fighters are supposed to be looking out for the public and taking care of themselves so they can best be of service. I would tell him that I think his anger toward Chief Piccinini who insisted on exercise and other positive expenditures of their time rather than watching TV is completely wrong and juvenile. I would tell the Fire Fighter's union that I understand the need for unity but unifying behind corruption destroys trust and loyalty something that is dangerous for them considering their work.

Of course, I'm also one that would tell Butch's mom that her glaring at people (as seen on the news) while she was speaking was quite improper. She was there to speak to the Fire Board, not glare at people who must have said something bad about her baby.

So, please don't tell me I hate people. That is a lie you are choosing to believe. And please don't tell me I wouldn't dare talk to people. That is another lie you are choosing to believe.

I have been very clear in my thoughts. I have never been hateful nor rude. I do know that the written word, many times, has difficulty in translation. The writer's intent can be misinterpreted due to the reader's current mood. It may be wise for all to consider this in their future reading...in short...it may not be the author who is having the bad attitude, it may be the reader (aka You).

One way or another, this is all coming to a head. While we hope Thursday ends with Piccinini back to work, it won't be "the end of the story". As Paul Harvey says, "the rest of the story" will continue and people will continue to fight the corruption in Anderson and get things changed so we can not only be proud of our town but proud of our politicians as well.

Written on Letter alleges foul play by Anderson fire board:

Well, it looks like a lot more will be decided on Thursday night than the future of Chief Piccinini. Whether or not he is fired, I'm certain, will play a large part in whether or not the people push for 1 City Council recall or 3. If the two guys decide to stand up, they just may have a chance to convince the voters that they have learned their lesson and stand against Norma Comnick. On the other hand, I don't think anything is going to stop the campaign (please note proper spelling) for the recall of Comnick, an Investigation into the farce called an investigation. There are simply too many people standing up against this that can neither be paid off nor convinced to stick their heads back in the sand.

Written on Letter alleges foul play by Anderson fire board:

The comments from VeryAngryMom reminded me of an email I received a while back. It said, "Be the kind of woman that every morning when your feet hit the floor, the devil says 'Oh crud, she's up!'"

I can't help but believe that is what has happened here. Mamas, Papas, White Collars, and Blue Collars are all saying that enough is enough.

And she is right, it is absolutely not okay for any Fire Fighter whether paid or volunteer to be told what he/she is to think and support in this matter. While I understand the need for unity, I also understand the need of free speech. Remember where we live, folks, the lands of unalienable rights...and the liberty in that quote does mean freedom.

Written on Letter alleges foul play by Anderson fire board:

It's hard to comment, justchillin? Then don't comment. And why should I violate the Brown act by putting the allegations here? I happen to be a citizen who obeys the law, unlike Norma to whom you obviously bow (or perhaps see in the mirror).

But that's the problem this town is in, sticking their heads in the sand and not paying attention to the people or the laws around them. If we are going to continue this nasty habit, then we need to take down the "Welcome to Anderson" signs and replace them with "Welcome to Ostrichtown, where we don't see or hear what is actually happening because we'd rather let Norma run things." You want evidence and allegations? That is what the Concerned Citizens are asking for. Since I haven't seen a AVP report saying the information has been given regarding Neil Purcell, I can't help but wonder if the board and Acting Chief Nichols are afraid to give it. Surely they were keeping track of the money being spent on Purcell.

But you want facts honey? Let's have the facts!

FACT...Nobody can find a Private Investigator's license in public record for Neil Purcell to investigate in Anderson?

FACT...Neil Purcell was given an unmarked Anderson Police car (you know...the one we all recognize on the spot) to drive during his investigation. The Fire Board had no right to give out a police vehicle. Since a vehicle's owner (not driver) must have insurance in California, this means he drove on our dime. Tax payers also paid for his gas and any wear and tear on the car.

FACT...Norma Comnick is well known for using Fire district property for her own needs (for example, a Fire district truck dropping off and picking up Fire district tables at her home for a private yard sale not to mention her redirecting the new Fire Truck being brought to Anderson to where Purcell is now living for a short visit).

FACT...Comments at the June 11th meeting were limited to 2 minutes when legally all those present were to be allowed 5. (Nothing like shutting people up early even if there is no law I can find to support the 2 minute limit)

FACT...There is already enough evidence to proceed with a Grand Jury investigation into the actions of the Fire Board in general but Norma Comnick specifically.

FACT...People need to wake up and stand up. There are over 4K voters in Anderson and many many more than that in the Anderson Fire Protection District. If just 1 in every 4 would be willing to stand, a true change could be taking place and there would be comments under a story about Norma being fined, indicted, or possibly arrested for so many of the laws she has violated.

FACT...I and others are here and are here to stay. We aren't silent nor afraid of Norma, Butch, and Keith any longer.

Written on Letter alleges foul play by Anderson fire board:

The Union decided for non-Union people (volunteers don't have a paycheck from which to take Union fees). That would be like my husband's union telling me what to think and say about something because I volunteer at times with the same type of job my hubby has. They don't have the right and I'd tell them where to put their attempt to make decisions for me. Of course, where the fire volunteers are concerned, they could not be able to work or work in fear that they wouldn't have backup in they went against the union. I know that sounds harsh but its true...and since the Fire Union is trying to make these decisions for volunteers, it makes me wonder how deep that dictatorship is going.

Written on Letter alleges foul play by Anderson fire board:

Then you obviously haven't truly read the entire story nor the 150+ comments on the multiple stories referring to this debacle. Under the Ralph M. Brown Act, the specific charges are not known to the open public. However, anybody who listens to Norma Comnick and her friends (who violate the Brown act often just for the sake of gossip) or have been around any of the fire fighters while purchasing groceries at Walmart or at their usual hang out know the "charges" are junk that should never even come close to ending a person's career.

Some people are mad because Chief Joe Piccinini has the guts to actually enforce the fire codes. Others are ticked because he's making the fire fighters exercise and those who are bordering on unsafely obese for such a job need to lose weight in order to be healthy and have the energy necessary to protect the public. I heard a story recently about our current "acting fire chief" and how due to his weight, he was unable to get to a drunk driver who had crashed into a garage. Due to the person having just moved into the home, the garage was full of unpacked boxes leaving a narrow opening to the driver's door. After swearing a blue streak, he had to wait for a thinner volunteer fire fighter to show up to help remove the drunk from his car. What if the car had been on fire? Would the man have died because Mr. Nichols couldn't get to him? It's a very scary thought indeed.

Oh, and Norma, for the public record...I sincerely hope members of the Concerned Citizens group will take the time and take turns to sit on the very public street in front of your house with a video camera the next time you are having a yard sale. I'd love to see how you set up for it without you forcing the fire fighters to use a district fire truck and deliver fire district tables to your home for your own personal use since you insist you are above board in all of this.

Written on Letter alleges foul play by Anderson fire board:

1. Since when can a volunteer be part of a Union?

2. Since when can a Union make decisions for a volunteer without violating that volunteer's freedom of speech?

3. What happens if a volunteer stands up, declares his rights to speak for himself since he isn't in the Union and stands up for the Chief? Will they find a reason to fire him, or worse, will he find himself running into a burning building alone so they can get rid of the person with brains enough to make their own decisions?

Written on Board hears investigation of Anderson fire chief, delays ruling:

Posted by Tiredofit:
"So, HeardEnough, will you be wearing your pith helmet because you are pithed off?"

To pith or not to pith...that is the question. ROFL!!!

Seriously though, I must agree with Tiredofit in one area...this situation is tearing at the fabric of our fine town. But, on the other hand, I actually think this controversy has done one very good thing. There are people who are standing up now who never stood before. People who will never disappear again. I must congratulate the three in accomplishing one thing that wasn't on some twisted agenda...the sleeping giant (the voters) is awake, never to slumber again.

Written on Grassroots group makes enquiries into Anderson fire district:

"It means everyone trusts and respects him," Schaefer said, adding that Purcell has 41 total years of law enforcement experience.

And Chief Joe Piccinini has decades of Fire fighter experience...why don't you trust him and let him do his job as well Mr. Schaefer?

Written on Board hears investigation of Anderson fire chief, delays ruling:

The website address I gave has both a 14 page pamphlet explaining the Brown Act along with the actual 56 written pages of the Brown Act. I'm reading it for the third time now to get the best understanding of it as possible.

And greeters at the fairgrounds? Are you talking the Chamber of Commerce meeting that I've seen around or are you working and taking tickets at the fair? Doesn't really matter, I will be at work instead of at the fairgrounds tomorrow for whatever reason. :-)

One of the things I found in the Brown Act is that any meeting can be recorded by anybody unless their recording device makes so much noise it distracts or it is so large or located in a place that distracts from the meeting. Also, any meeting that is recorded must be available for viewing for 30 days. I'm presuming that since the City Council meeting is on channel 11 that it was taped as well. Does City Hall have a viewing room where people can go see the tape?

Written on Board hears investigation of Anderson fire chief, delays ruling:

I find it quite strange that the only person in recent posts who hasn't been posting facts on a daily basis is HeardEnough. Instead he/she is on quite an emotional roller-coaster trying to distract people from the real point of all of this with claims of paranoia, etc. I find it sad, or perhaps enlightening, that the only one who seems to be in support of the three is unable to show support with any professionalism. Sad really...if you truly want people to side with Norma and the boys, perhaps statements of what in this whole mess has been done legally and above board would help. Just a thought.

I am doing further research and contacting those who know more of the legal speech than me; however, I'm finding some very interesting things regarding this process in the eyes of the Brown act. For example, if I am reading correctly, any closed session should be happening in the lawyer's office for the Fire Board. I have been told that the closed session to hear Purcell's report was in the Fire Hall, not the lawyer's office. Granted, I may be misunderstanding the Brown Act but I did find that interesting. It's 56 pages of very good reading. I highly suggest you all print it out. I've called several friends today and encouraged them to do the same.

http://www.brownact.org/

Written on Board hears investigation of Anderson fire chief, delays ruling:

Who cares...WHO CARES?!?! Who cares if the investigation was entirely illegal? I CARE! Who cares is somebody was brought in who is a good enough friend of Norma Comnick that she hitched a ride to pick up our new Fire Engine and redirected it to go visit Purcell on the way home? I CARE! It's time for these little private meetings to end. It's time for these three to stop lying and start obeying the law. And lets be blunt here...due to the relationship between Norma and Purcell, I don't care how above board a few say he is.

Friendship + Illegal Investigation = Report that I wouldn't trust as far as I can throw!

And I thank you for quoting Matthew 5. As a matter of fact, I do faithfully "...pray for them (the unholy trinity) who despitefully use you and persecute you."

despitefully = maliciously

persecute = to pursue with harassing or oppressive treatment

Wow, I couldn't have quoted a better verse myself. Did you use this to admit that the three are maliciously harassing and oppressing Chief Joe?

The Fire Board must be willing to do all they do fairly and above board. Notice I didn't say openly because the Brown act prevents that in some cases. If they can't follow the law in hiring an investigator and get someone with a license to be a private investigator in Anderson, how can we trust them to do anything else? For that matter, since this situation is so blatant, how can we trust the three to be in the City Council? What backhanded things are they trying to pull there? It's time for honesty. It's time for fairness.

Written on Board hears investigation of Anderson fire chief, delays ruling:

"...see the irrational hostility that people everywhere vent upon one another as chiefly projected self-hate."

That's a good quote...of course, I'm not quite sure to whom that is pointed since the only "irrational hostility" seen was in Butch Shaefer at the Fire Board meeting toward Debe Hopkins. Let's look at another famous quotes shall we?

"...Why do you boast all day long, you who are a disgrace in the eyes of God? Your tongue plots destruction; it is like a sharpened razor, you who practice deceit. You love evil rather than good,falsehood rather than speaking the truth. You love every harmful word, O you deceitful tongue! Surely God will bring you down to everlasting ruin:..."
Psalm 52:1b-5a

Those who have run Anderson for their own selfish desires have run their course. People are standing up against the junk. I welcome the change. It's too bad that it took something like the career of Chief Joe Piccinini hanging in the balance to get enough to start speaking out publicly; however, for every camel's back there is a straw. Just because you are a politician doesn't mean you have to be crooked or easily bought. It doesn't mean your friends should get away with breaking the law or that you must push to fire the person who refuses to help you break that law. It is time for a change in local politics.

Written on Board hears investigation of Anderson fire chief, delays ruling:

Andersonnative, what does Tina have to do with the Fire Board giving their decision? Nobody is going to be allowed to speak. The Fire Board will walk in, they will take roll, Webster will read a previously written statement giving the results, then they will walk out. Unless the newspaper or TV news take a roll of the audience, nobody will know who else is there anyway. Are you just trying to get people off topic because you are afraid to admit the Fire Board's trinity has really blown it?

So...let's get back on topic.

Chief doesn't deserve this. He is working hard to get things done right. Yes, he's made some firemen mad because he makes them exercise and tries to get some to lose weight. They should be exercising anyway! Imagine what kind of lawsuit the fire district would be in for if one of the obese firefighters couldn't do his job and a fire spread because of it? Let Chief do his job!

Written on Watchdog group forming:

I have spent hours on various websites trying to find where it is legal for a citizen (aka retired police officer who doesn't have a private investigator's license) to have done this type of investigation. I can't find anything that says it is legal, only that PI's and police can do such investigations. Anybody else having any luck?

I hope McGruff follows through with that petition to recall, I'd sign in a heartbeat.

I will be anxious to see how things play out in the next couple of weeks until the board gives their decision. If they are wise they will put a hold on this and leave it for the elected Fire Board. Unfortunately, given the track record, I honestly don't see that happening. One thing that is becoming more and more obvious; however, is that the reign is done. Too many people have grown tired from the Good Ol' Boys club happening in Anderson. Every time we get good people in positions to make great changes, those who live on power focus on their destruction. It's time Yarbrough and Hunt have a real team to work with them on the City Council. It's time we have a real Fire Board who focus on good things not on hear say (aka an anonymous letter) that would be thrown out of any court.

If a business owner fired an employee due to an anonymous letter, they could be sued for wrongful termination. If police/DA tried to get a warrant for someone's arrest based on an anonymous letter, it would never be allowed. Why, then, is this being done?

Written on Retired APD Chief Neil Purcell hired to investigate Anderson's Fire Chief:

A question regarding Purcell came up on another comment string...is he a licensed investigator for the state of California? According to several websites, including http://cali-pi.org Neil Purcell does not have a license to be a private investigator in Shasta County or California. I could not find online whether or not Purcell has retained his license to be a Peace Officer in California since he retired. From what I found, a licensed Peace Officer would have to search for that. If he didn't, it makes one wonder...is his investigation even legal? If it is, does this mean it is legal for any citizen in Anderson to have access to legal documents, conduct interviews, and access other information in order to hold an independent investigation into Comnick, Webster, and Schaefer? Just a thought.

Written on Watchdog group forming:

Andersonnative, you are right is ONE area. "Those who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones." Politicians are the ones who live in glass houses because their words and actions are subject to every voter in the district. I hope your thoughts help you take a deeper look at your friend Norma. After all, you are still believing in the good she did by bringing Kenworth to Anderson when it never even happened. Makes me wonder what other good things you believe she has done that are actually imaginary as well. Please get the facts before getting back on your soap box.

Written on Board hears investigation of Anderson fire chief, delays ruling:

Wait just a dog-gone minute...Webster is under investigation as a member of the City Council for not reporting money received? Then why isn't he under administrative leave as well. If it is good enough for Piccinini then leave is good enough for Webster! This smells like foul play to me. Perhaps people should suggest at the next City Council meeting that Webster be placed on administrative leave so at least the slightest appearance of propriety can be seen.

Written on Board hears investigation of Anderson fire chief, delays ruling:

You want to know what the complaints are? Go to Walmart and listen to the firefighters who buy groceries for the firehouse. For that matter, go to any of their regular off-duty hangouts. It's amazing what you hear when people don't think you are listening. Some of them have mouths as large as their waistlines.

Written on Anderson's City Manager accepts similar post in Florida:

Yay Scott! Congratulations! I'm glad to hear you will be moving closer to your wife's family. May God bless you all in your move and I hope you are truly happy in your new job.

Written on CHP officer, Cottonwood firefighter in I-5 accident:

Thank God for protecting these men as they work hard to help the rest of us.

Written on Board hears investigation of Anderson fire chief, delays ruling:

Did I just see the channel 7 news right? Was that Butch's mama talking and glaring at somebody? "The Chief has chosen that we not know" she says. Well, DUH!!! If he gave Norma the chance to make things public, the allegations would suddenly double or come out so twisted that it would be like getting a Genie back in the bottle. It should speak enough that Chief Joe had a great career for 2 decades in another state followed by high marks from this board until he ticked people off!
If I'm right and that is Butch's mama on the news, it's okay for her to glare at people but not okay for somebody to interrupt? Geez, what did you do, DebeHopkins? Stand up and yell at the woman to get that kind of response? I hope it was something that truly made a scene otherwise Mama's glares and Sonny boy's verbal abuse are both way out of line.

Written on Anderson officer assaulted during child abuse investigation:

Regardless of some people's opinions, the police have a job to do and do it well. Simple respect for yourself and others could prevent most of this type of violence. Have some officers abused their power? Of course, but that doesn't mean the rest of them who work hard and are there for the community deserve the abuse and the donut jokes. If people would act like adults and teach their children manners, we would get to see and hear more about the good things these officers do in our community.

Written on Board hears investigation of Anderson fire chief, delays ruling:

16 firefighters? Where were the rest? Aren't there about 40 when you add in the paid employees plus the volunteers? Were they told not to come because they support Piccinini? Were they all mysteriously put on duty so they couldn't come? Did they refuse to attend because they don't support the Fire Board? I know that one person who spoke last night said those who have spoken to her in support of the Chief were not present at the meeting. Hmm.....I wonder why.

Written on Purcell is sorting the dirty laundry:

Well, you were close, Snooperanderson. According to the latest story on this site, the written report isn't done so the board heard a verbal only. Later, there will be a meeting after the Fire Board has their written report so they can give their decision.

Written on Purcell is sorting the dirty laundry:

It is definitely time for an investigation into the "Anderson Trinity". Let's look at facts...they are the majority of the Fire Board. The are the majority of the City Council. They take turns being Mayor and Vice Mayor. Webster made promise after promise during his turn at Mayor but nothing ever came of any of it. Nothing like political promises from people who swear they "love Anderson" but have nothing to show for it.

Written on Retired APD Chief Neil Purcell hired to investigate Anderson's Fire Chief:

Hiring Chief Joe Piccinini was one of the biggest positives that Fire Board has ever done for Anderson. I hope the distorted desires of one woman doesn't mess that up. It's obvious to anybody with a brain that she wants a "yes man" and didn't get that in Joe so now she wants his head on a silver platter. To the rest of the Fire Board. Do Your Jobs! Keep Piccinini as our Fire Chief!!!

Written on Watchdog group forming:

One can only hope the Scarecrow and the Lion find their brains and courage before Thursday night so we can keep somebody who is actually helping this town instead of abusing it. Of course, in my mind I wasn't thinking of the three heroes...I was thinking more the witch, the flying monkey, and the Winkie (witch's guard).

Written on Should the Shasta County Grand Jury be asked to look into the affairs and management practices of the Anderson Fire Protection District including the board of directors and public allegations of their misuse of power?:

Definitely!!! It's about time the spot lights come on and certain closets get swept all the way out of the city limits! Anderson is a great little town but it's time to drop this "Bubba Jones be duh sheriff, duh mayor, duh Justice of duh Peace, and duh Blacksmith of this here town" junk. Anderson needs to dump the trash and start growing up!

Written on Letters to the editor: June 10, 2009:

I too would be very interested in having a LOCAL investigator check into the Fire Board. I find it interesting that "the one to whom others bow" visited this investigator and began putting things into place a very short time after Piccinini refused to bow to her like some sort of Baal. Then, voila! As soon as she's ready, a mysterious "anonymous letter" appears. This entire thing reeks and if people are smart, a campaign to recall the 3rd place vote of the last City Council election will happen soon.

Written on Purcell is sorting the dirty laundry:

It is time for a change in Anderson, that's for certain. And while I am highly concerned about this "investigation", especially since I've heard from several highly placed people in the community that Comnick visited Purcell before calling for this investigation, I'm hopeful that this will be the straw that broke the camel's back. Too many things over the years I've lived here haven't made sense and asking questions has led to the motives or close friends of the same City Councilperson.

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