Monday, August 12, 2013

Law Suit Filed: Nevada Foreclosure Companies Face Illegal Debt Collection Class Action

What are you looking for? Home Page >> Lawsuits Filed >> Lawsuit: Nevada Foreclosure Companies Face Illegal Debt Collection Class Action Nevada Foreclosure Companies Face Illegal Debt Collection Class Action Please click here for a free resource evaluation of your claim Las Vegas, NV: A foreclosure class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of 16 Nevadans against five companies hired by banks and lenders to handle the foreclosures on properties owned by the plaintiffs and one additional defendant who purchased property through the foreclosure process. The lawsuit claims illegal debt collection activities and deceptive trade practices by the defendants against the plaintiffs during the foreclosure process as the defendants were not licensed or registered in the State of Nevada to carry out the foreclosure process. The plaintiffs are Nevadans who not only lost their houses in one of the hardest hit real estate markets, but were also adversely affected by foreclosure companies that did not follow the law during the foreclosure process. The lawsuit names as defendants: Quality Loan Service Corporation; Appleton Properties, LLC; MTC Financial, Inc. dba Trustee Corps; Meridian Foreclosure Service dba MTDS, Inc. dba Meridian Trust Deed Service; National Default Servicing Corporation; and California Reconveyance Company. The lawsuit seeks to compensate the plaintiffs and compel the defendants to surrender all fees collected for many thousands of foreclosures during the time they were operating illegally. The case was filed as a class action lawsuit because there are thousands of potential plaintiffs who were victims of these foreclosure companies. The lawsuit alleges that the debt collection activities of the defendants are and/or were illegal and improper because each of the defendants did not hold a license to engage in debt collection activities in the State of Nevada and each also failed to register as a foreign debt collection agency with the Nevada Financial Institutions Division. The illegal and improper debt collection activities include the issuance of debt-related notices, demands, collection communications and/or foreclosure sales and processes. In addition, the plaintiffs also claim deceptive trade practices, consumer fraud, unjust enrichment, trespass, quiet title and in two instances, elder abuse. Plaintiffs are asking for compensatory and consequential damages in excess to $10,000, disgorgement of any amounts paid to defendants for their respective illegal and improper debt collection activities, attorney's fees and injunctive relief. Nevada Illegal Foreclosure Class Action Legal Help If you or a loved one has suffered damages in this case, please click the link below and your complaint will be sent to a lawyer who may evaluate your claim at no cost or obligation.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/lawsuit/nevada-foreclosure-companies-class-action-illegal.html?ref=rss

Saturday, August 10, 2013

Law Suit Filed: Fisker employment lawsuit

Home > Lawsuits > Fisker employment lawsuit Fisker Faces Employment Class Action Lawsuit Over WARN Act Violations April 9 2013 Houston, TX: An employment class action lawsuit has been filed against Fisker Automotive for failure to provide 60 days notice to employees who were part of recent mass layoffs. Those layoffs are in violation of US and California labor laws. Specifically, the US Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, a federal law, stipulates that companies with over 100 employees must provide 60 days notice prior to laying off their employees. There is also a similar requirement in place under California state law. The employment lawsuit against Fisker alleges the company failed to pay the employees their 60 days pay and benefits that they would have been received had they been provided their duly entitled 60-day notice. Further, the lawsuit claims Fisker failed to notify California's state Employment Development Department of its layoff plans, as well as the local workforce investment board, as well as the top elected officials in Anaheim and Orange County. Fisker Employment Class Action Legal Help If you or a loved one has suffered similar damages or injuries, please fill in the form to the right and your complaint will be sent to a lawyer who may evaluate your claim at no cost or obligation. Last updated April 9 2013 Request Legal Help
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/lawsuit/Fisker-Employment-Class-Action-Lawsuit.html?ref=rss

EPIC honored by Orange County Business Journal as a 'Best Place to Work'

Orange County school districts meet standard on new accountability scores

7, 2013 IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 7, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --The Orange County Business Journal has announced that EPIC has been recognized as a "Best Place to Work" in Orange County. EPIC is one of only 34 Orange County companies with 250 or more employees to receive this honor and is ranked 4th in the large company category. "Receiving this recognition is very exciting because it highlights the passion, energy and enthusiasm of our people," said Mary Smith, director of human resources for EPIC. "We feel that happy, engaged team members, who are challenged by and enjoy their work, will deliver the superior level of client service excellence EPIC is committed to providing. We believe this is a significant reason for the rapid growth of our company and the loyalty of our clients. It is a primary driver of our success." The Best Companies Group administered the confidential survey online and included questions that gauged how happy employees are with their work culture, management practices, benefits and overall compensation. This survey and awards program was designed to identify, recognize and honor the best employers in Orange County, benefiting the county's economy, workforce, and businesses. Unique factors that EPIC's employees noted were a pleasant working environment, company-sponsored entertainment, and a superior wellness program.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/08/07/ca-epic-award-idUSnPNLA60786+1e0+PRN20130807

THINK Together Chief Development Officer Appointed to Arts Orange County Board of Directors

How's it going, you guys? Can you believe we're here, at the "Real Housewives of Orange County" season finale? I thought I'd trot out a bit of pleasantly morbid postmodern poetry to help us delve a little deeper into what we've been through this season -- what we've learned, how we've grown, and what it says about us -- a nation of viewers watching those desperate to be viewed. Let's move on from my senior year thesis and get down to business. Vicki's lazily themed Winter Wonderland party is in full, seasonally perplexing swing: stuffed penguins on artificial ice floes, cobalt blue Christmas trees, manufactured snow, and other weird trimmings that could only be conjured by a party planner on too much Adderall and Bud Light Platinum. The women are lounging in a chilled grotto, gossiping intensely about Gretchen and Slade, who finally arrive, unfashionably late. Slade immediately tells Lydia that her dress looks straight outta "Dancing with the Stars." She correctly identifies this as a backhanded compliment and deems him a "Douche-lord" in her interview. Point, Lydia! Vicki's soon-to-be-deployed U.S. Marine son-in-law Ryan explains that he has "dirt" on her sketchy beau Brooks, and declares that he's not allowed on the property: "At the end of the day, Brooks is not who he says he is." Yes.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.huffingtonpost.com/heather-wagner/the-real-housewives-of-orange-county-finale-recap-cold-shoulders_b_3711089.html

CB Technologies, Inc. named Best Places to Work by Orange County Business Journal

The Board of Directors of Arts OC is dedicated to supporting a vision that will establish the county as a national leader in fostering a creative community and innovative workforce. I have long admired the great work done by Arts Orange County, said Shaw, 48. Its an honor to work with people so passionate about ensuring that the arts are expanded and enhanced in our community. With a son who recently graduated from USC with a Theatre Degree, I know firsthand the positive impact the arts make in our lives. Serving on the ArtsOC Board will provide greater opportunities for me to advocate for the central role of the arts in Orange County. In his role with THINK Together, a statewide academic support and extended learning organization with its home office and strong programming in Orange County, Tim brings a unique perspective on the arts and arts education in particular. In his previous roles as CEO of the Irvine Public Schools Foundation and as Manager of External Affairs at the Orange County Great Park, Tim was a staunch advocate for expansion of the arts in our schools and public venues. Tim Shaw is a visionary community leader whom Ive had the pleasure of knowing for many years, said Arts Orange County Executive Director Rick Stein. I look forward to his contributions as a dynamic new member of our team, and to the opportunity for us to learn from one another so that we can strengthen the work that each of our organizations is doing in the community. About THINK Together THINK Together is one of the leading and largest nonprofit providers of academic support programs (early literacy, after-school, small group tutoring, summer learning, etc.) in the U.S., serving more than 100,000 students across 420 locations from San Diego to Sacramento. Partnering with school administrators and teachers, its academically oriented programs and dedicated team of 2,500 employees are helping students close the achievement gap.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.sfgate.com/business/press-releases/article/THINK-Together-Chief-Development-Officer-4718428.php

Each year, the Orange County Business Journal highlights Orange County's most exceptional companies in the Best Places to Work Special Report. According to the OCBJ, these businesses excel in the finest treatment, recruitment and retention of their employees. CB Technologies has been supplying IT products and services to the Aerospace, Manufacturing, Government, and Commercial sectors since 2001. CB Technologies has nearly doubled its workforce since 2012 and is positioned to continue its growth through 2015. "Recognitions like this exemplify the fact that corporate responsibility to not only clients but employees, along with providing a balanced work-life environment, breeds teamwork, excellence and commitment. This commitment allows our clients to experience the best support and service in the industry," said CEO, Kelly Ireland. CB Technologies is an award-winning and leading small woman-owned enterprise that delivers end-to-end IT solutions and services. Our dedicated and focused team of engineers, sales and support professionals has allowed our clients to experience the highest levels of customer satisfaction. CB Technologies has been perennially named to the Inc. 5000, Orange County Business of the Year list, and CRN's VAR500.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/08/08/ca-cb-tech-best-place-idUSnPNLA61559+1e0+PRN20130808

Orange County 'Carmageddon': Full 405 Freeway closure coming

The closure is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 17, and last through 5 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 18. The freeway will be shut down between the 605 Freeway and Valley View Street in Westminster, according to a news release from the Orange County Transportation Authority. "We know this 'Bridge Bash' has the potential to disrupt traffic for the hundreds of thousands of people who use the I-405 on a typical summer weekend and we are encouraging drivers to avoid the freeway in this area," Greg Winterbottom, OCTA chairman, said in the release.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-oc-carmageddon-405-closure-20130806,0,1943052.story

County Issues West Nile Virus Alert

The district received scores of 78 in student achievement, 33 in student progress, 65 in closing performance gaps and 87 in postsecondary readiness. The accountability ratings are one of the tools we use to measure the effectiveness of our district and the success of our students, said Dr. Pauline Hargrove, LC-M CISD superintendent. We are extremely pleased with the results and greatly appreciate the outstanding work of our students, parents, and faculty and staff. The Vidor Independent School District met standard as did all seven of its campuses. The district received scores of 74 in student achievement, 31 in student progress, 65 in closing performance gaps and 82 in postsecondary readiness. We are happy we met all standards. (The superintendents of the county) are all of a like mind that we like the new accountability system better than the last, said Dr. Jay Killgo, Vidor ISD superintendent. Especially since we are not penalized for our lowest test area.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://Orange Attorneyleader.com/local/x1981932547/Orange-County-school-districts-meet-standard-on-new-accountability-scores

'The Real Housewives Of Orange County' Season Finale Recap: 'Cold Shoulders'

Posted by Nisha Gutierrez-Jaime (Editor) , August 09, 2013 at 09:13 PM Next Previous Slideshow Download Editor's note: The following news release was issued by the Orange County Vector Control District. The Orange County Vector Control District (OCVCD) recently announced in a news release that a City of Cypress resident was the firstperson to test positive for West Nile Virus in Orange County this year. IntheAugust 6OCVCD news release, District ManagerMichael Hearst explained,Orange County Vector Control District is reporting fewer than normal West Nile virus positives this year. This reduction should not be seen as an invitation to relax, but rather serve as reminder that our diligent control efforts help suppress disease transmission. We remind residents to continue their property inspections and maintenance during years with lower virus transmission in order to reduce the severity of future outbreaks. According to the news release, Cypress was also the location where OCVCD found the first mosquitoes that tested positive for the disease in 2013. OCVCD routinely tests groups of adult female mosquitoes and dead birds for the presence of West Nile Virus.To date this calendar year,four dead birds (collected from the cities of Brea, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, and Seal Beach) and two mosquito samples have tested positive for the virus. Thus, OCVCD encouragesOrange County residentsto conduct routine property inspections for mosquito-breeding sources. The district suggests lookingfor any standing water around the house or neighborhood and either remove the water source, or contact OCVCD to inspect and treat the source.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://newportbeach.patch.com/groups/summer/p/county-issues-west-nile-virus-alert

Orange County school worker arrested in copper theft case

brian-weydert-robert-harrell We'd love to see them! Upload them now! Sign up to News 13 NOW for instant Breaking News & Weather alerts by text or email. Orange County school worker arrested in copper theft case Brian Weydert, and Robert Harrell, are accused of selling copper in Volusia County, which came from school sites in Orange County. Last Updated: Thursday, August 08, 2013, 5:16 PM DELAND -- An Orange County school worker stole copper from school sites and sold it in Volusia County, according to investigators who arrested the man Thursday. Volusia County deputies started investigating last month when a recycling center in DeLand reported a customer scrapped nearly 2,000 pounds of copper wire in about a month at the center. Deputies questioned Robert Harrell, 58, who eventually admitted that he was getting the wire from Brian Weydert, 54. Harrell said Weydert would give him the copper to sell, and then pay Harrell 10 percent for his part. Deputies say Weydert, who worked at as a technician for the Orange County school district, stole the wire from school sites because he needed extra money to support his family.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.baynews9.com/content/news/cfnews13/news/article.html/content/news/articles/cfn/2013/8/8/Orange Attorney_county_school.html

Friday, August 9, 2013

Law Suit Filed: Nevada Foreclosure Companies Face Illegal Debt Collection Class Action

What are you looking for? Home Page >> Lawsuits Filed >> Lawsuit: Nevada Foreclosure Companies Face Illegal Debt Collection Class Action Nevada Foreclosure Companies Face Illegal Debt Collection Class Action Please click here for a free evaluation of your claim Las Vegas, NV: A foreclosure class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of 16 Nevadans against five companies hired by banks and lenders to handle the foreclosures on properties owned by the plaintiffs and one additional defendant who purchased property through the foreclosure process. The lawsuit claims illegal debt collection activities and deceptive trade practices by the defendants against the plaintiffs during the foreclosure process as the defendants were not licensed or registered in the State of Nevada to carry out the foreclosure process. The plaintiffs are Nevadans who not only lost their houses in one of the hardest hit real estate markets, but were also adversely affected by foreclosure companies that did not follow the law during the foreclosure process. The lawsuit names as defendants: Quality Loan Service Corporation; Appleton Properties, LLC; MTC Financial, Inc. dba Trustee Corps; Meridian Foreclosure Service dba MTDS, Inc. dba Meridian Trust Deed Service; National Default Servicing Corporation; and California http://cortrightlaw.com/location/orange attorney-attorney-office Reconveyance Company. The lawsuit seeks to compensate the plaintiffs and compel the defendants to surrender all fees collected for many thousands of foreclosures during the time they were operating illegally. The case was filed as a class action lawsuit because there are thousands of potential plaintiffs who were victims of these foreclosure companies. The lawsuit alleges that the debt collection activities of the defendants are and/or were illegal and improper because each of the defendants did not hold a license to engage in debt collection activities in the State of Nevada and each also failed to register as a foreign debt collection agency with the Nevada Financial Institutions Division. The illegal and improper debt collection activities include the issuance of debt-related notices, demands, collection communications and/or foreclosure sales and processes. In addition, the plaintiffs also claim deceptive trade practices, consumer fraud, unjust enrichment, trespass, quiet title and in two instances, elder abuse. Plaintiffs are asking for compensatory and consequential damages in excess to $10,000, disgorgement of any amounts paid to defendants for their respective illegal and improper debt collection activities, attorney's fees and injunctive relief. Nevada Illegal Foreclosure Class Action Legal Help If you or a loved one has suffered damages in this case, please click the link below and your complaint will be sent to a lawyer who may evaluate your claim at no cost or obligation.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/lawsuit/nevada-foreclosure-companies-class-action-illegal.html?ref=rss

Thursday, August 8, 2013

Law Suit Filed: Nevada Foreclosure Companies Face Illegal Debt Collection Class Action

What are you looking for? Home Page >> Lawsuits Filed >> Lawsuit: Nevada Foreclosure Companies Face Illegal Debt Collection Class Action Nevada Foreclosure Companies Face Illegal Debt Collection Class Action Please click here for a free evaluation of your claim Las Vegas, NV: A foreclosure class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of 16 Nevadans against five companies hired by banks and lenders to handle the foreclosures on properties owned by the plaintiffs and one additional defendant who purchased property through the foreclosure process. The lawsuit claims illegal debt collection activities and deceptive trade practices by the defendants against the plaintiffs during the foreclosure process as the defendants were not licensed or registered in the State of Nevada to carry out the foreclosure process. The plaintiffs are Nevadans who not only lost their houses in one of the hardest hit real estate markets, but were also adversely affected by foreclosure companies that did not follow the law during the foreclosure process. The lawsuit names as defendants: Quality Loan Service Corporation; Appleton Properties, LLC; MTC Financial, Inc. dba Trustee Corps; Meridian Foreclosure Service dba MTDS, Inc. dba Meridian Trust Deed Service; National Default Servicing Corporation; and California Reconveyance Company. The lawsuit seeks to compensate the plaintiffs and compel the defendants to surrender all fees collected for many thousands of foreclosures during the time they were operating illegally. The case was filed as a class action lawsuit because there are thousands of potential plaintiffs who were victims of these foreclosure companies. The lawsuit alleges that the debt collection activities of the defendants are and/or were illegal and improper because each of the defendants did not hold a license to engage in debt collection activities in the State of Nevada and each also failed to register as a foreign debt collection agency with the Nevada Financial Institutions Division. The illegal and improper debt collection activities include the issuance of debt-related notices, demands, collection communications and/or foreclosure sales and processes. In addition, the plaintiffs also claim deceptive trade practices, consumer fraud, unjust enrichment, trespass, quiet title and in two instances, elder abuse. Plaintiffs are asking for compensatory and consequential damages in excess to $10,000, disgorgement of any amounts paid to defendants for their respective illegal and improper debt collection activities, attorney's fees and injunctive relief. Nevada Illegal Foreclosure Class Action Legal Help If you or a loved one has suffered damages in this case, please click the link below and your complaint will be sent to a lawyer who may evaluate your claim at no cost or obligation.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/lawsuit/nevada-foreclosure-companies-class-action-illegal.html?ref=rss

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Law Suit Filed: JPMorgan Chase Accused of Fraud in Bankruptcy Filings

What are you looking for? Home Page >> Lawsuits Filed >> Lawsuit: JPMorgan Chase Accused of Fraud in Bankruptcy Filings JPMorgan Chase Accused of Fraud in Bankruptcy Filings Please click here for a free evaluation of your claim Newport Beach, CA: A consumer fraud class action filed against JPMorgan Chase alleges the bank routinely fabricated documents to deceive bankruptcy judges. The lawsuit, filed by Ernest Michael Bakenie, states "Through the use of fabricated assignments, endorsements and affidavits that purport to transfer deeds of trust, notes and the rights to all monies due under the terms of tens of thousands of non-negotiable promissory notes (the 'MLNs'); Chase has demonstrated a pattern and practice of playing 'hide-and-seek' with debtors, judges and http://cortrightlaw.com/location/orange attorney-attorney-office other bankruptcy players." Bakenie further claims that Chase's "pattern and practice of playing 'hide-and-seek' with debtors, judges and other bankruptcy players" resulted in the bank securing motions for relief of stay and proofs of claim in 95 percent of its cases. According to the lawsuit, an extensive network of attorneys working for Chase filed more than 7,000 motions for relief from automatic stay in bankruptcy cases in the Central District of California, "wherein they falsely claim to be the party entitled to monies due under the terms of MLNs." The lawsuit also claims that Chase rewards attorneys based on how quickly they can secure the stays, and uses fabricated documents to establish chain of title on loans. Essentially, the lawsuit claims, "Rather than incur the cost of 'proving up' its own standing or the standing of its principal Mortgage Backed Security Trust, Chase systemically misrepresents Chase or a designated MBST to be a creditor in tens of thousands of bankruptcy cases by utilizing manufactured documents. " The lawsuit also claims "That said practice allows Chase to dump defaulted loans that were never properly securitized by Washington Mutual (WAMU) and other originators acquired by Chase into private mortgage backed security trusts by creating the illusion of a valid transfer. Said practice shifts the liability of defaulted loans not properly securitized by WAMU, from Chase to private mortgage backed security trusts. The practice allows Chase to effectively mitigate the millions of dollars in liability of the WAMU acquisition, where WAMU failed to transfer MLNs of its portfolio before its demise. Said practice shifts losses from WAMU to MBST bond investors." Bakenie seeks class certification, compensatory, statutory and punitive damages for unfair and deceptive trade, disgorgement and "an order vacating all bankruptcy orders, claims and awards granted based on Chase's misrepresentation and deceptive business practices". Chase Bankruptcy Fraud Class Action Legal Help If you or a loved one has suffered damages in this case, please click the link below and your complaint will be sent to a lawyer who may evaluate your claim at no cost or obligation.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/lawsuit/jpmorgan-chase-fraud-bankruptcy-filings-lawsuit.html?ref=rss

Orange County 'Carmageddon': Full 405 Freeway closure coming

Orange County's Bruno Mars ticket giveaway is a go

(Google Maps) By Ari Bloomekatz August 7, 2013, 9:46 a.m. It happened in Los Angeles -- twice -- and now Orange County can brace for its own 'Carmageddon' : the 405 Freeway will be closed in both directions for 20 hours. The closure is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 17, and last through 5 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 18. The freeway will be shut down between the 605 Freeway and Valley View Street in Westminster, according to a news release from the Orange County Transportation Authority.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-oc-carmageddon-405-closure-20130806,0,1943052.story

Report released on Orange Co. home confinement

HE SAYS THERE'S PLENTY OF ROOM TO HOLD THEM IN JAIL. IF YOU WANT TO PUT A DUI GUY ON TO MAKE SURE HE IS NOT DRIVING, SO BE IT. BUT FOR HIGH LEVEL OFFENDERS IT IS A WASTE OF TAXPAYER MONEY BECAUSE THEY'LL COME OUT AND KILL YOU. DESPITE THE FAILINGS OF THE PROGRAM, MATRIX DID TELL THE COUNTY COMMISSION THEY SHOULD REINSTATE A VALUABLE SERVICE WHICH PROVIDES MONITORING TO CERTAIN SUSPECTS WHO IF THEY WERE JUST ALLOWED TO POST BOND AND THERE WASN'T ANY MONITORING THAT SERVICE WOULDN'T EVEN THERE. BUT THEY SAID IT NEEDS VERY The results of an outside investigation into Orange County's home confinement program will be released on Tuesday. Read: Matrix Consulting Group report The outside firm is recommending the county take what they call a "more exclusionary" approach to the offenders who can be part of the home confinement program. "We do need change," Mayor Teresa Jacobs said. "Judges need to know the limitations and we need to upgrade our technology." The Matrix Consulting Group singled out the public outrage over the release of accused home invader Bessman Okafor, who allegedly killed 19-year-old Alex Zaldivar, a witness set to testify against Okafor. The report spells out how home release programs started as a way to release those accused of minor offenses while they awaited trial.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.wesh.com/news/central-florida/Orange Attorney-county/report-released-on-Orange Attorney-co-home-confinement/-/12978032/21350672/-/5hnukl/-/index.html

Did a meteor hit Orange County? Residents report huge explosion

Residents report huge explosion Comments 6 A meteor pierces the night sky in Joshua Tree during a Perseid meteor shower. Residents in Lake Forest's Foothill Ranch community say a loud explosion and a flash of light Tuesday morning were the result of a meteor falling. (Wally Pacholka / astropics.com) By Joseph Serna July 30, 2013, 12:13 p.m. Unlike trees, when a meteor falls in the wilderness, everyone can hear it. And some Orange County residents think that's exactly what they heard when a thunderous boom rattled windows, scared pets and startled homeowners from their sleep early Tuesday morning. About 12:15 a.m., the Orange County Sheriffs Department received three or four calls from residents in Lake Forests Foothill Ranch community about a loud explosion and a flash of light.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-Orange Attorney-county-meteor-20130730,0,7530990.story

Orange County's 'Textgate' Scandal Shows Need for Texting Policies

OK, do you at least wish you had a rich person's view of the Bruno Mars concert coming to Orlando on Aug. 27? Orange County is giving away four seats in its exclusive Amway Center box. It's not a lottery giveway for reasons you can read here. (The county had to change the way it gives away concert tickets because of a new law regulating so-called Internet Cafes.) So, to win the two sets of tickets, you have to submit to the county's Facebook page a photo of of someone you "Treasure" (that's another Bruno Mars hit) and then explain why he or she is so special. The posts that get the most Facebook "likes" will win the tickets.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/blogs/political-pulse/os-orange-county-bruno-mars-ticket-contest,0,2784906.post

Dubbed textgate, the scandal raised ethics questions about county leaders and created a huge headache for county CIO Rafael Mena, who had the task of recovering texts related to the ballot measure. But the event had larger implications too: Mobile technology is creating new ways for our officials to run afoul of public records laws. Thats why the issue needs more attention from CIOs and public leaders. Read the rest of this month's magazine issue. Ultimately, the incident prompted Orange County to tighten up its treatment of texts. Mena recently flipped the switch on a new system that captures and stores text messages sent and received by county-owned devices. Messages are saved in a searchable repository and can be quickly retrieved to comply with records requests.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.governing.com/columns/tech-talk/col-orange-county-textgate-scandal-shows-policy-need.html

Orange County Senior Care Franchise Moves South to Northern San Diego

This new franchise partnership with Fred and Janice Ehlers is the latest step in Amadas nationwide growth strategy. For Fred and Janice, who live locally and have two daughters, senior care provides a business opportunity that they feel will have a positive impact on their community. Fred brings an in-depth understanding of sales and marketing to the industry, given that he formerly served as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Mazda. Janices experience in teaching elementary school children has also proven quite valuable. "I know what its like to have individuals in my care," she said, "and how very important it is to communicate with those that have entrusted you with a loved one." When asked about their overall approach to senior care and about what differentiates them, Fred said that there were two major things. Most senior care companies only do in-home care. We specialize in that and in helping seniors find the best arrangement for their particular situation even if that includes placing them in an assisted living home or skilled nursing community. Were really senior care advocates, and will do whats best for each clients unique situation. Fred also said his business philosophy of customer service and of creating a supportive work environment sets them apart.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.sfgate.com/business/press-releases/article/Orange-County-Senior-Care-Franchise-Moves-South-4713937.php

Arts center executives to Orange County: Don't let off the gas now

The first project to be discussed was the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts , which wanted to get the county to give the final OK to $25 million in tourist development taxes promised by the county back in April. Arts center Chairman Jim Pugh said the center has raised $106 million in local donations since its inception and that it is still looking for $22 million to get the second phase of the project funded. In addition, arts center President Kathy Ramsberger gave an update on the projectas construction time line. According to the presentation, the arts center would like to begin pre-construction on Phase 2 a such as architecture and engineering a work within the next 60 days, start construction on the project in 2015 and have it completed by 2018. Getting started now is vital, as any delays will only raise the cost of the project, Ramsberger told the county. aEvery year we wait raises the cost by $7.8 million,a she told me. To back up her claim, Ramsberger said the April announcement has helped the center secure more donations, and an OK on the $25 million could be what finally opens up the floodgates of new donations. Orange County leaders backed the arts center on the grounds that it helped diversify the economy and was something they promised to help and are already too invested in to abandon. Orange Countyas Tourist Development Council is set to discuss the proposals on Aug.
For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/blog/2013/08/dpac-executives-to-Orange Attorney-county.html