Deputy Sheriff Aleman Killed After Rear-ending A Flatbed Tow Truck On Southbound I-43 In Milwaukee

Sergio Aleman

Authorities investigating an accident that claimed the life of a Milwaukee County Deputy Sheriff.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 31, 2012

Milwaukee - On Tuesday, Milwaukee County Deputy Sheriff Sergio Aleman, 49, was reported killed after 12:17 p.m. on southbound I-43 highway under the Winnebago St. overpass bridge near the downtown Marquette interchange. Aleman was on duty driving a department Freeway Service TEAM truck to help stranded motorists on the highway when he slammed into the rear-end of a N&S flatbed towing truck.
The first deputy at the scene found Aleman trapped in the truck cabin, unresponsive and not breathing. CPR attempts to revive Deputy Aleman were unsuccessful. Fire fighters who arrived at the scene had to use Jaws of Life, a hydraulic rescue tool to extract Aleman from the mangled front part of the truck. Aleman was then rushed to Froedtert Hospital where he died after succumbing to his injuries. An autosy will be performed to try and determined what led to Deputy Aleman's accident, according to Sheriff David A. Clarke Jr.
Some of the deputies who first responded to the scene are receiving counseling to help them get through the traumatic incident. Sheriff Clarke described that Deputy Aleman had suffered catastrophic injuries at the scene.
The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Department (MCSD) notified Deputy Aleman's family about his injuries and were present when he passed away before confirming that Aleman had lost his life. He is the first deputy to died in the line of duty in the last 12 years.
Deputy Aleman is survived by his wife, Jenna and five children ranging from ages 22 to 6. The youngest one is from his present wife, including two step children and two children from a first marriage.
The southbound I-43 lanes were opened just after 3:00 p.m. The Wisconsin State Patrol investigators questioned the 21-year-old N&S tow truck driver and will continue with their investigation of the deadly crash. Sheriff Clarke confirmed, that the driver "in no way is responsible" for the accident.
State accident reconstruction investigators are trying to determine how Deputy Aleman lost control of his vehicle and slammed into the flatbed. It will take weeks or months to actually figure out what led Deputy Aleman to crash into the tow truck.
Aleman had worked for MCSD since 1994 and so far, the preliminary investigation indicated that Deputy Aleman was not suffering from any history of medical problems at the time of the accident.
County Executive Chris Abele ordered all county facilities to fly the U.S. flag at half-staff for the next 30 days in honor of Aleman. Aleman had received three meritorious awards in his career, including one for arresting two suspects wanted for multiple bank robberies. One of the bank robbers arrested, included Michael J. Scott, 36, who was sought in connection with at least 10 southeastern bank robberies. Scott and another suspect had just robbed a U.S. bank in Germantown on July 13 in Milwaukee County, when Deputy Aleman spotted the vehicle they were using on the freeway. The suspects were later arrested by Deputy Aleman and a Milwaukee police officer at a south side Milwaukee gas station located in the 600 block of W. Becher St.
Two separate trust funds have been set up at the Tri-City bank and M&I bank under Sergio Aleman's name. As a warning to the public to avoid fraud, no door by door solicitations or phone calling to ask for funds will be made, according to Sheriff Clarke.

Milwaukee County Sheriff's Deputy Badge

Services for Aleman:

Public visitation at

Max A. Sass and Sons Funeral Home
8910 W. Drexel Ave.
Franklin, WI
Monday, August 6, 2012
From 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Memorial Service at

St. Patrick's Church
728 W. Washington Ave.
Milwaukee, WI
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
11:00 a.m.

Final Interment; law enforcement possession to cemetery immediately following church services at
St. Adalbert Cemetery
3801 S. 6 St.
Milwaukee, WI

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Vollmer Wins Olympic Gold Metal And Set Record For Butterfly 100-meter Swim

Dana Vollmer

U.S. swimmer set record for 100-meter butterfly swim and wins gold medal.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 30, 2012

London - On Sunday, Dana Vollmer, 24, from the U.S. set a world record in the 100-meter butterfly swim competition and won an Olympic gold metal. Vollmer finished in 55.98 seconds, breaking the 2009 world championship record of 56.06 seconds set by Sarah Sjostrom from Sweden.
Lu Ying from China received the silver metal with 56.87 seconds and Alicia Coutts of Australia got the bronze with 56.94 seconds in the butterfly race.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Former MPD Officer Cates Sentenced To 24 Years In A Federal Prison For Raping Milwaukee Woman

Ladmarald Cates

Gates convicted for raping 19-year-old woman while investigating a brawl incident.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 30, 2012

Milwaukee - On Monday, former Milwaukee Police Officer Ladmarald Cates, 44, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge J.P. Stadtmueller to 24 years in prison, the U.S. Justice Department (DOJ) announced. Cates was found guilty by a federal jury on January 11, 2011, of a civil rights charge stemming from his July 16, 2010 sexual assault of a 19-year-old Milwaukee woman.
The DOJ stated that the evidence at trial established that in 2010, Cates, while acting as a Milwaukee Police officer, responded to a 911 call for police assistance at the victim’s home. Cates then used a combination of coercion and intimidation to force the victim to commit sexual acts before forcibly raping her.
The federal criminal complaint revealed that the woman made a 911 call, while Cates was investigating a brawl at the 1500 block of W. Center St. In Milwaukee He allegedly assaulted the victim and forced her to perform sex acts, including oral sex inside the residence, while his partner and her family were outside. When the victim complained to police, they held her for 12 hours before taking her to the hospital to get evidence from the alleged sexual assault.
She apparently begged local police to be taken to the hospital for medical help, but it was not until officers from the internal affairs department had finally interviewed her, that she finally received medical attention, according to an investigation by the feds.
“The 24-year term of imprisonment imposed upon this defendant reflects both the flagrant violation of the fundamental civil rights of a member of our community and the unconscionable conduct of a law enforcement officer sworn to protect our citizens,” said James L. Santelle, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin. “The message to all of our constituents, including the police, is that horrific behaviors of this sort will result in prompt investigation, focused prosecution, and prolonged incarceration.”

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Holmes Charged With 24 Counts Of Murder For The July Batman Primiere Movie Massacre

James Eagan Holmes

Defense attorneys on Monday attempted to surpress a notebook from evidence sent to a Colorado university psychiatrist by Holmes detailing his premediated intent to murder people at the premiere Batman movie showing.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 30, 2012

Centennial, Colorado - On Monday, James Eagan Holmes, 24, aka. "The Joker" was formally charged with 24 counts of first-degree murder, including 12 counts for "universal malice manifesting extreme indefference to value of human life." He was also charged with 116 counts, that included 58 counts of first-degree attempted murder and 58 other counts of related charges to attempted homicide in connection with the July 20 shooting massacre. Holmes allegedly shot 12 people dead at point blank and injured 58 others inside an Aurora theater showing of the latest Batman primiere movie "The Dark Knight Rises." In addition, he was charged with possession of explosives as well. Holmes agreed to waive his upcoming preliminary hearing.
Holmes is facing multiple life sentences in prison without parole, if convicted on all counts. Prosecutors are also considering the death penalty, but have several months to decide whether they will actually impose the death penalty.
Porsecutors and police say, Holmes acted in premeditation to commit the homicides by buying a shotgun, two Glock hanguns, an AR-15 asault rifle and 6 thousand rounds of various ammunition calibers just weeks before committing the murders.
Holmes was a student at the University of Colorado-Aurora. The university confirmed, that Holmes had dropped out of his PH.D neuroscience program on June 10.
He even sent a notebook to Lynne Fenton, a psychiatrist and medical director at the University of Colorado-Denver detailing his intent to kill people at the Batman movie. Defense attorney's confirmed that Holmes was Fenton's patient and attempted during the court hearing to surpress the notebook as evidence arguing it was privilege information between Holmes and Fenton. Arapahoe County Circuit Court Judge William Sylvester will hold another court hearing to discuss further challenges to surpress the notebook as evidence. The notebook was found at the university's mailroom after the massacre took place and was turned over to police.
Holme's defense lawyers are requesting a copy of the notebook from prosecutors.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Local Racine Organizations To Sponsor A Two Day Fiesta Mexicana In August

Photo: Facebook

Three Racine local organizations unite to present a two day Fiesta Mexicana in Racine, Wisconsin.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 27, 2012

Racine - On Wednesday, Yolanda Adams, President and CEO of the Urban League of Racine/Kenosha announced that her organization, including the Emmaus Lutheran Church and the Hispanic Community & Resource Center of Racine have created a partnership to present and continue the yearly Fiesta Mexicana under new management. The two day event will take place on August 11-12, 2012 at the Racine Civic Center Festival Park, 5 Fifth Street in Racine, Wisconsin.
Food vendors, cultutal events and a variety of Mexican, Tejano, Peruvian and Salsa music will be provided at the festival grounds.
This year's Fiesta Mexicana in Racine will feature a tribute to local Tejano bands and life long local Tejano musicians that have untimely passed away within the last three years. Adams says, the new organizers of the Fiesta will recognize the local talent in the area for their life long dedication to promote and keeping Tejano music alive through the years.
A special recognition will take place to remember, José Guadalupe Morales of Racine, Manuel Rivas of Milwaukee, Sammy and Manuel Avila of Milwaukee, Tommy Lugo of Chicago and others who have passed away, but had dedicated their lives and careers to promoting and playing Tejano music.
This year's Fiesta will have an abundance of local talent, including five Mexican bands and five Tejano bands, Mexican DJ's and eight Tejano DJ's. Mariachis and folkloric dancers will also be showcased and a children's area for the family will be provided at the event.
Fiesta organizers have also reserved the indoor Festival Park hall for bands and festivalgoers just in case they have a rain day.
This year's festival organizers have made sure that all the bands, festival grounds and extra costs to present the event are paid in full, according to Adams, whose organization has taken the lead in organizing the August Fiesta event along with their two other partnerships. Fiesta organizers had actually began to organize the festival within a month ago or so, and hope to break even, if weather permits and can generate enough public support for the two day event.
For Adams, this year's festival is definately paid for and any extra funds generated on the weekend Fiesta will be greatly appreciated and would be used to fund community programs offered by the three organizations sponsoring the Racine Fiesta event.
The new partnership created by the three organizations apparently took over the yearly festival that was operated as the Racine Fiesta Mexicana and sponsored by the Hispanic Business and Professional Association, Inc. (HBPA). Last March, Guadalupe "Wally" Rendon, Director of the Racine Fiesta Mexicana reported that the August festival had been canceled due to an incurred debt of about $29,000, but had actually paid $10,000 of it when the cancellation was reported.
Rendon blamed an independent promoter, Luis Enrique Martínez from L.E.M. Marketing and Productions in Milwaukee for trying to scam the Racine Fiesta Committee into investing more money then they had anticipated to contract musical groups. Martinez had promised in a package to present over 22 groups at the Fiesta Mexicana 2011, but days before the event Rendon noticed none would appear. Rendon and the Fiesta Mexicana Committee struggled to contract other groups for the three day event and absorbed most of the finances and incurred a debt.
Rendon confirmed, that the HBPA is planning to continue their own "Fiesta Mexicana" in 2013, but it won't be at the lakefront Racine festival park. Last year's debt kept HBPA from having their festival this August, but Rendon wished the Urban League of Racine/Kenosha and the two other groups luck on their two day fiesta.
The only difference between the two festival names is "La" to Fiesta Mexicana that was added by the Urban League for their August event. Rendon pointed out the difference in the festival names, but despite the similarities in the names, no copy right legal challenge is planned by HBPA, according to Rendon.
Rendon says, HBPA will actively continue to do fundraisers to pay their current $15,000 debt and will have a beer booth at the Milwaukee Mexican Fiesta 2012 during the three day event at the Summerfest grounds on August 24, 25 and the 26.
One thing for sure, by having two different Fiesta Mexicanas in Racine can only indicate one positive outlook, that Racine continues to absorb a rapid Mexican and Hispanic population growth as well as Latino economic growth associated with population growth, its needs and tourism during the summer Mexican festivals.

Dragonfly In Amber Offered For $200K In The U.S.

Click on photo to enlarge image.

Photos: HNG

Unique dragonfly amber silver pendant being offered for a mere $200K.

July 26, 2012

Milwaukee – Hispanic News Network U.S.A. (HNNUSA) is offering a unique piece of amber with a dragonfly captured inside by nature for a mere $200,000. The natural amber piece measures about 3 1/2″ in length, 2″ in width and 3/4″ in thickness, which comes with a heavy silver (925) bevel pendant. The silver content weights at 8 grams and the amber weight is 81.5 grams totaling 89.5 grams. The amber is yellow and brownish in nature color and includes other ojects inside.
The piece of amber comes from a private owner who is offering the pendant to a serious collector or buyer inorder to generate funds to continue to offer free HNNUSA newsworthy blog postings on the internet for educational purposes.
Only serious inquiries, including collectors, national, local museums, art jewlery galleries and others having the potential to acquire the amber piece are encouraged to post their information in comments, along with an inquiry and competitive price offer. Posted inquiries will be kept confidential.
The exceptional amber piece is being offered as is shown on the image provided by HNNUSA.

Wisconsin State Representative Zamarripa (D) Admits To Being Bisexual

JoCasta Zamarripa

Zamarripa comes out of the closet and confirms she is bisexual while campaigning to get re-elected to the State Assembly.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 24, 2012

Madison - On Tuesday, JoCasta Zamarripa, 36, (D-Milw.) admitted to her bisexual preference on her Facebook account after struggling to admit she was actually a non-hetrosexual while she first ran for public office. She is an active member with the LGBT, a gay and lesbian rights group.
Allegations of Zamarripa not being a hetrosexual first surfaced several years ago during her campaign to get elected to the state legislature when a local Spanish newspaper editorial raised and questioned her sexual orientation for standing up for gay and lesbian rights. Despite the allegations, she ran for the 8th Assembly District seat after Pedro Colón (D) decided not to seek re-election and then was appointed judge.
Zamarripa won the election and defeated Laura Manriquez, a community activist. Manriquez is once again challenging Zamarripa for the seat on the August 14 election.
It's too early to determine, if Zamarripa's coming out will effect her re-election bid. The south side is considered predominately Hispanic, very conservative with religious traditions and beliefs of anti-gay, bisexual, lesbian or transexual orientation. But the younger generation of Latinos are more highly educated and more receptive to recognize everyone's sexual preference despite, Latino conservative traditions to reject gays and their supporters.
Within the last two years, the Democrats in the State Assembly have had little success in passing their own agenda or legislative bills, since the Republicans had control and continue to do so today in the Assembly.
Zamarripa on Facebook posted, "I made the decision to come out publicly today....I hope that you will all stand with me in continuing to celebrate diversity, champion equality, and always be authentic."
She was recently selected as Wisconsin Chair of Latinos for Obama, which is a bid to get President Barack H. Obama re-elected.
Voces de la Frontera, an immigrant and labor wage rights non-profit organization in a news release on Tuesday applaud Zamarripa for making her bisexual orientation public.
State Senator Tim Carpenter (D-Milw.), which represents Zamarripa's district in also openly gay.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

14 Illegal Immigrants Killed After Truck Lost Control In South Texas

Local and federal authorities continue to investigate an accident that claimed 14 lives in Goliad County south Texas.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 23, 2012

Goliad, Texas - On Monday, local, county and federal authorities continued at the scene near Goliad where 14 suspected undocument immigrants from Honduras, Mexico and Guatemala died in an accident. Police say, the accident was reported on around 7:00 p.m. on Sunday evening.
The preliminary investigation indicated that the driver, Ricardo Mendoza Pineda who also died in the accident was doing up to 75 MPH when he lost control of the pick-up truck on highway 59 (a rural highway) after a tire blew out and struck some trees. There were 23 people packed in the truck and were being smuggled into the U.S. at the time of the accident, police reported.
At least six people were seating in the front cab of the Ford F-250 truck, including two teenage girls that died and Pineda. The rest of the passengers were located in the back bed. Most of the victims were thrown up to 60 feet from the accident.
The owner of the truck told investigators, that he had sold the truck about a month ago. Police are trying to locate the person that purchased the truck, including people involved in the alleged smuggling operation.
Among the dead, 11 men and three women were confirmed dead and nine were reported injured. Investigators and agents from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement have identified nine victims. The Mexican Consulate in San Antonio confirmed that the only Mexican national killed in the crash was a 22-year-old victim from Tamaulipas.
Most of the other victims carried no identification with them. Some of the surviving victims included children, according to police.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Holmes, aka, "The Joker" Held Without Bail For 12 Aurora Murders

James Eagan Holmes

Photo: Courtesy of the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Department

Holmes appeared in a Arapahoe County court for a probable cause hearing to continue to hold the suspect without bond.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 23, 2012

Centennial, Colorado - On Monday, James Eagan Holmes, 24, aka, "The Joker" of Aurora made his first court appearance to determine, if there was enough probable cause to continue to hold the suspect in connection with 12 homicides on Friday. The court hearing was televised nationally.
Holmes is accused of randomly killing 12 victims and injuring 58 others at an Aurora, Colorado movie theater showing a premiere of a Batman movie "The Dark Knight Rises." Judge William Sylvester determined there was enough evidence to hold Holmes without bail and extended the dateline for Arapahoe County prosecutors to file charges against the suspect. Holmes did not enter a plead during the hearing.
Arapahoe County prosecutors are expected to formally file 12 felony counts of first-degree homicide and multiple counts of attempted homicide, including other related charges by next Monday, which would make Holmes eligible for the death penalty. It would take months to decide, if Holmes will face the death penalty. The family of the deceased victims will be consulted in the process of determining, if prosecutors will seek the death penalty for Holmes, according to Arapahoe County District Attorney Carol Chambers, who is prosecuting the case. State prosecutors have 60 days to decide, if they will seek the death penalty.
Holmes is being held in isolation and on a suicide watch at the Arapahoe Detention Center. Authorities say, Holmes is refusing to cooperate in the case.
Last Friday, Holmes was taken into custody by Aurora police in connection with the multiple deadly shooting at the Century 16 movie theater in an Aurora mall. On early Friday, Holmes apparently shortly after midnight left theater 9 through an exit. After 20 minutes into the Batman movie, Holmes returned in full body armor with several weapons. The carnage began when Holmes threw several tear gas canisters into the seating audience. Some people at first thought it was part of the movie screening or a stunt play. But they soon panicked after Holmes fired live rounds into the ceiling several times. When the audience reacted and stood up to flee, Holmes shot at them while he stood in front of the theater screen.
Holmes began to move up the aisles while shooting at anyone that stood up or tried to run from theater 9. One of the shots went through the wall and hit another man at the adjacent theater.
Most of the dead victims were inside theater 9 where the newly released Batman movie "The Dark Knight Rises" being screened during the premiere. The suspect who acted alone managed to kill 12 people and injured 58 others, which 9 are still in critical condition, according to Chief Oates.
Media reported, that some of the people were able to run to other sections of the theater and warned others about the shooting. Police say, Holmes was dressed in all black, wearing a gas mask, a bullet proof vest, riot helmet and wore a groin protector. He also went upstairs to other sections of the theater while reloading and firing his weapon randomly at people and children inside, according to surviving witnesses.
A gas mask, two 40 Caliber Glock handguns, 12 gauge shotgun and a AR-15 assault rifle were recovered by police. The AR-15 rifle, the shotgun and a handgun were recovered inside the theater. Police say, the assault rifle had jammed during the shooting spree. The other handgun was found in Holmes vehicle. Police estimated Holmes had more than one thousand rounds of various ammunitions.
Authorities confirmed, Holmes purchased the weapons legally within the last six months and had bought up to 6 thousand rounds of ammunition.
Holmes was taken into custody by police immediately after arriving at the scene in the rear parking lot of the theater near his vehicle. Holmes surrendered to police and did not resist arrest. He told police that he was the "Joker." Holmes hair was dyed in red or bright orange when he was arrested, according to police.
Ten of the victims died at the crime scene, including a 6-year-old girl and two died at a local hospital, among those injured were 6 children, including a 3-month-old baby boy who were taken to the Children's Hospital in Aurora. Other surviving victims were being treated in area hospitals for gunshot wounds and tear gas contamination, Chief Oates reported.
Police also went to Holmes apartment to check for other weapons, explosives and gather evidence. Chief Oates confirm, Holmes apartment was booby trapped with wires, unknown chemicals and incendiary materials. Police were able to disarm and neutralize the booby traps.

Deceased victims were identified as:

Jonathan T. Blunk, 26,

Alexander J. Boik, 18,

Air Force Staff Sgt. Jesse E. Chidress, 29,

Gordon W. Cowden, 51,

Jessica Ghawi, 24,

Petty Officer 3rd Class John Thomas Larimer, 27,

Matthew R. McQuinn, 27,

Micayla G. Medek, 23,

Veronica Moser-Sullivan, 6,

Alex M. Sullivan, 27,

Alexander C. Treves, 24,

and Rebecca Ann Wingo, 32.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

12 Reported Killed By Colorado Gunman At A Batman Movie Theater Screening

James Holmes

Photo: University of Colorado

Police reported at least 12 people were fatal shot by a lone gunman at an Aurora mall theater.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 20, 2012

Aurora, Colorado - On Friday, Aurora Police Chief Dan Oates during a press conference confirmed that James Holmes, 24, was taken into custody in connection with the multiple deadly shooting at the Century 16 movie theater in an Aurora mall. Holmes is described as a Ph.D. drop out student from San Diego. Aurora is a suburb of Denver.
Holmes apparently shortly after midnight left theater 9 through an exit. After 20 minutes into the Batman movie, Holmes returned in full body armor with several weapons. The carnage began when Holmes threw several tear gas canisters into the seating audience. Some people at first thought it was part of the movie screening. But they soon panicked after Holmes fired live rounds into the ceiling several times. When the audience reacted and stood up to flee, Holmes shot at them while he stood in front of the theater screen.
Holmes began to move up the aisles while shooting at anyone that stood up or tried to run from theater 9. One of the shots went through the wall and hit another man at the adjacent theater.
Most of the dead victims were inside theater 9 where the newly released Batman movie "The Dark Knight Rises" being screened during the premier. The suspect who acted alone managed to kill 12 people and injured 58 others, which some suffered critical injuries, according to Chief Oates.
Media reports say, some of the people were able to run to other sections of the theater and warned others about the shooting. Police say, Holmes was dressed in all black, wearing a gas mask, a bullet proof vest, riot helmet and wore a groin protector. He also went upstairs to other sections of the theater while reloading and firing his weapon randomly at people and children inside, according to surviving witnesses.
A gas mask, two 40 Caliber Glock handguns, 12 gauge shotgun and a AR-15 assault rifle were recovered by police. The AR-15 rifle, the shotgun and a handgun were recovered inside the theater. The other handgun was found in Holmes vehicle. Police estimated Holmes had more than one thousand rounds of various ammunitions.
Authorities confirmed, Holmes purchased the weapons legally within the last six months and had bought up to 6 thousand rounds of ammunition.
Holmes was taken into custody by police immediately after arriving at the scene in the rear parking lot of the theater near his vehicle. Holmes surrendered to police and did not resist arrest. He told police that he was the "Joker." Holmes hair was dyed in red or bright orange when he was arrested, according to police.
Ten of the victims died at the crime scene, including a 6-year-old girl and two died at a local hospital, among those injured were 6 children, including a 3-month-old baby boy who were taken to the Children's Hospital in Aurora. Other surviving victims were being treated in area hospitals for gunshot wounds and tear gas contamination, Chief Oates reported.
Police also went to Holmes apartment to check for other weapons, explosives and gather evidence. Chief Oates confirm, Holmes apartment was booby trapped with wires, unknown chemicals and incendiary materials. It would take several hours or days to nuetralize or disarm his apartment, Chief Oates reported.
During a press conference on Friday, President Barack H. Obama declared a proclamation in honor of the Aurora, Colorado deceased victims to have the U.S. flag flown at half-staff until July 25. Obama stated, "I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon al public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, July 25, 2012. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations."

Deceased victims were identified as:

Jonathan T. Blunk, 26,

Alexander J. Boik, 18,

Air Force Staff Sgt. Jesse E. Chidress, 29,

Gordon W. Cowden, 51,

Jessica Ghawi, 24,

Petty Officer 3rd Class John Thomas Larimer, 27,

Matthew R. McQuinn, 27,

Micayla G. Medek, 23,

Veronica Moser-Sullivan, 6,

Alex M. Sullivan, 27,

Alexander C. Treves, 24,

and Rebecca Ann Wingo, 32.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Yang Convicted For Lee's Reckless Homicide In Sheboygan

Kou Yang

Yang facing nearly 80 years in prison for Lee's reckless homicide.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 19, 2012

Sheboygan - On Thursday, a jury convicted Kou Yang, 21, of Sheboygan for three felony counts of 1st-degree reckeless homicide, one count of 1st-degree reckless injuring and one count for possession of a firearm by felon, in connection with the murder of Pheng Lee, 20, on January 8th.  The jury agreed that Yang did not act in self defense when he fired at least five shots at Lee and three other men. Lee was fatally shot in the chest twice and died at a local hospital.
Yang was accused of discharging five 9mm shots at Lee and Cheng Lung Moua, 21, and his friends outside a Walmart parking lot at the 3700 block of S. Taylor Dr. shortly after they approached Yang's vehicle.
Moua got into an argument with Yang inside Walmart in the checkout counter. Yang was accompanied by his wife and a 16-year-old teenager.
Lee and two other men arrived at Walmart after Moua called them. They walked up to Yang's vehicle to discuss the incident and to tell Yang to leave Moua alone. But Yang feeling threaten took his weapon out and fire a first shot at them. The victims ran and Yang continued to fire four more shots striking both Lee and Moua.
Lee who was a student at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee later died at St. Nicolas Hospital in Sheboygan from a bullet wound through the heart and from another bullet that struck his right lung. Moua was shot in the jaw and lost two teeth and had reconstructive surgery at Froedtert Hospital in Wauwatosa.
Yang was convicted in 2010 for child abuse and is a convicted felon.
Yang is facing up to 80 years in prison on all counts when he is sentenced at later date.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Suspect Accused Of Robbing Ten Southeastern Wisconsin Banks Held On Bond

"Ball Cap" bank robber

Michael J. Scott

Photo: Washington County Sheriff's Department

Couple taken into custody by authorities for allegedly robbing a U.S. Bank in Germantown.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 19, 2012

West Bend, WI - On Monday, the Germantown Police Department filed a motion in a Washington County Circuit Court to hold Michael J. Scott, 36, of Randolph, Wisconsin for further proceedings on an ongoing investigation in connection with a U.S. Bank robbery in Germantown. Scott admitted to police of committing ten bank robberies. He is being held on a $25,000 cash bond and a hearing is set for August 1.
Multiple state felony bank robbery charges are pending against Scott. The U.S. Attorney's office is expected to also file federal charges against Scott for multiple bank robberies.
Last Friday,  a Milwaukee County Sheriff's deputy and a Milwaukee police officer arrested two suspects for robbing Germantown bank. One of the suspects, Michael J. Scott is accused of robbing at least ten banks in southeastern Wisconsin. Scott and another suspect, a 28-year-old female were spotted by a Milwaukee County Sheriff's deputy at a gas station in the 600 block of W. Becher St. around 3:30 p.m. in Milwaukee's south side after robbing a U.S. Bank on County Line Rd. and Appleton earlier in the day. A sheriff's deputy and a Milwaukee police officer were able to take the suspects into custody without incident at the local gas station.
The deputy was able to identified the vehicle from a description provided from a bank robbery in Germantown. The case was turned over to the Washington County Sheriff's Office for further proceedings. The suspects are expected to be charged with multiple felony counts connected to the bank robberies.
Scott became known as the serial "Ball Cap" bank robber who never wore a mask, also wore the same clothing in several occassions while robbing a bank and was considered dangerous.
The bank association offered $8,500 reward for information leading to his arrest.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Alabama Suspect Turns Himself To Police After Shooting 17 Bar Patrons In Tuscaloosa

Nathan Van Wilkins

Suspect called Jasper police from a FedEx store and admitted to shooting into a bar in Tuscaloosa.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 18, 2012

Jasper, Alabama - Police in Jasper responded to a call from Nathan Van Wilkins, 44, who confessed that he shot into a Tuscaloosa bar on early Tuesday that resulted with 17 patrons injured by shots fired from an assault rifle. Wilkins was taken into custody at a FedEx store in Jasper, according to police.
Wilkins is facing 18 felony counts of attempted murder, including one for an earlier shooting and one count of shooting into a tavern. Wilkins was also connected to an earlier shooting of another victim before going to the Copper Cup bar and firing through the windows.
Wilkins is facing more than $1.9 million cash bond once all of the charges are filed.
Twelve of the victims were treated for their injuries and then released from a local hospital. The remaining victims remained at the hospital, two are in an Intensive Care Unit and the rest remained in serious condition, according to police.
Tuscaloosa police say, surveillance camera footage captured Wilkins walking through the parking lot with an assault rifle and then fired his weapon about 11 times into the bar.
Tuscaloosa police confirmed, that a Crime Stopper tip had identified Wilkins as the main suspect in the shooting melee before he eventually turned himself in.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Permanent Wisconsin Voter ID Injunction Stands

Photo: HNG

The State of Wisconsin has been barred from implementing the Voter ID law in statewide elections, according to Judge Flanagan's ruling.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 17, 2012

Madison - On Tuesday, Dane County Circuit Court Judge David Flanagan issued a permanent injunction preventing the State of Wisconsin from implementing the Voter ID law, which required eligible voting-age citizens to show a state issued ID or license when voting in upcoming elections. Judge Flanagan released his decision in the case this afternoon, according to a news release by Voces de la Frontera, an immigrant rights non-profit organization. Flanagan determined, that the photo ID law was the strictest in the country and is "not sufficiently narrow to void needless and significant impairment of the right to vote."
Flanagan's decision will prevent the Government Accountability Board, local and county election commissions from implementing the ID law during the forthcoming elections.
The Photo ID law or Act 23 lawsuit was filed by the Milwaukee Chapter of the NAACP and Voces de la Frontera. The legislature created another class or group to be excluded from voting by passing the Voter ID, according to the plaintiffs.
On April 16, Judge Flanagan ruled that the Voter ID would keep about 220,000 low income voting-age citizens from voting due to the burdens imposed by the state legislature.  Some citizens could not afford $10 to $40 to get a birth certificate copy to apply for a state ID.
The Republican control legislature passed the Voter ID law in May 2011 and Governor Scott Walker (R) signed it into law. The Republicans were accused by Democrats of trying to keep low-income minorities from voting to set the stage for a Republican presidential candidate to win Wisconsin in an efford to oust President Barack H. Obama (D-IL) from office in 2012.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Republicans Relinquish Control Of The Wisconsin State Senate

John W. Lehman

Lehman sworn in as State Senator securing Democratic control of the Senate Chamber.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 17, 2012

Madison - On Tuesday, the Democrats will have a majority in the state senate chamber after John W. Lehman (D) was officially sworn in as Senator for the 21st District on Monday. Lehman gave the Democrats a majority of 17-16 after defeating Republican incumbent Van Wanggaard, who served briefly and didn't finish a four year term in the senate.
Lehman's confirmation and Democrats taking control of the senate will make it difficult for Republicans and Governor Scott Walker (R) to continue with their agenda without bipartisan support.
Republicans still hold control the State Assembly. No major legislation is expected to go through the senate until next year.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Walters Arrested In Cancun After Eluding Feds For 24-years

Vicent Legrend Walters

Walters worked at the Cancun International Airport selling vacation time-share pakages for a resort from Puerto Morelos.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 16, 2012

Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico - On early Saturday, Mexican federal police arrested Vincent Legrend Walters, 45, aka, Oscar Rivera, who was one of the U.S. Marshals Service 15 most wanted man. Walters was wanted in San Diego, California for the September 1988 kidnapping and homicide of Kristine Reyes during a drug deal gone bad.
Walters was taken to Mexico City for processing on a Provisional Arrest Warrant requesting his extradition by the U.S.
Walters was using the alias Oscar Rivera, who worked at the Cancun International Airport selling time-share vacation packages for a resort from Puerto Morelos near Cancun. He had been on the run and a fugitive for 24-years. He had boasted to people in Mexico that he was a wanted fugitive from the U.S., according to the U.S. Marshals Service.
His brother, Martin Walters had been convicted for Reyes homicide and is serving a 25 to life prison sentence.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Two Tunnels, Including One Used To Smuggle Illegal Immigrants And Drugs Into The U.S. Discovered

One tunnel used to smuggle drugs and a second to smuggle undocumented immigrants, including drugs into the U.S.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 16, 2012

Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico - The Mexican Secretary of National Defense (Sedena) reported on July 12, that military personnel during an investigation into drug trafficking operations in the municipality of Tijuana had discovered to tunnels and 40 tons of marijuana in a warehouse. One of the tunnels was found near the local airport adjacent to the U.S. border and the other near the ejido Tampico location. One of the tunnels was under construction with ventilation and lighting to smuggle drugs. The other tunnel also had lighting, including ventilation and was being utilized to smuggle undocumented immigrants and drugs into the U.S. Sedena did not release any information about how many immigrants might have been smuggled into the U.S. through the tunnel.
During the same military operation on Thursday, a warehouse with four moving trucks loaded with hundreds of packages totalling 40 tons of marijuana was discovered in the vacinity of Granjas Familiares de Matamoros. Three suspects were taken into custody at the warehouse, according to Gilberto Landeros Briseño, commander of the second military zone operation in Tijuana.
The 40 tons of marijuana was destine to the U.S., but was intercepted by the military, Briseño confirmed.
Sedena has not identified the suspected criminal organizations involved in the operation of several drug smuggling tunnels or who owned the warehouse where the large stockpile of marijuana was found.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Ticketmaster Extending Refund Dateline For Wisin y Yandel Fans After Dropping Out From JLO's Concert Tour

Photo: HNG

Ticketmaster refunding some Wisin y Yandel fans in major cities.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 14, 2012

Miami, Florida - On Thursday, Billboard dot biz reported that an employee had affirmed that Wisin y Yandel fans seeking refunds after the duo dropped out of the JLO concert tour promoted by AEG Live would have until Friday to do so. The Ticketmaster employee told Billboard dot biz that refunds were available before July 14.
On Saturday in Minnesota, the refunding dateline for the duo tickets was extended. Jackie Gallegos, from the twin cities and one of Wisin y Yandel's fans who bought tickets to check out the duo during the previously scheduled JLO tour for August 1 confirmed, that Ticketmaster will refund her money for three tickets and would take at least three business days to get her full refund.
Wisin y Yandel dropped out of the JLO concert tour a month after it was announced they would be on the tour. AEG Live promoted the mega tour with Jennifer Lopez, Enrique Iglesias and Wisin y Yandel the reggaeton duo. The duo announced their decision to drop the JLO tour after AEG Live promoters wouldn't grant the same caliber of performance show that the duo is accustom too. The void left some Wisin y Yandel fans who had purchased tickets in advance with no option, but to seek refunds.
Hispanic News Network U.S.A. (HNNUSA) attempted to contact Live Nation Entertainment, Inc., which merged with Ticketmaster about the lack of information provided to ticket purchasers seeking refunds after the duo dropped out of the JLO tour. But Live Nation representatives made no attempt to respond to HNNUSA's inquiry.
JLO's first tour concert will be on Saturday, July 14, at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec. Ticketmaster's reasoning for a lack of an immediate move to refund fans accordingly, was that JLO is the main artist and star attraction. The mishap by Ticketmaster left thousands of fans to resort to Twitter and the social networks to complain about Ticketmaster's lack of credibility to refund tickets quickly when they first discovered the duo had left the JLO tour.
Since then, AEG Live has replaced Wisin y Yandel with Francisco Javier Bautista Jr, 36, also known by the stage name of Frankie J, a former member of the Kumbia Kings. Frankie J is originally from Tijuana, Mexico who grew up in San Diego and became an R&B and Latin Pop singer. He will join the JLO tour for 21 of 26 scheduled concerts in the U.S. and Canada. 
Frankie J's first live presentation will be on July 21 along with JLO and Iglesias at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, according to Billboard dot biz.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Intoxicated Laredo Wrestlers Trash Quiznos After Service Refused

Facebook users in Laredo described an altercation inside Quiznos involving at least 10 wrestlers from the Laredo Wrestling Alliance.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 12, 2012

Laredo, Texas - On Tuesday, police were called to the Quiznos sandwich restaurant at the 7300 block of San Dario Ave. after an altercation involving at least 10 Laredo Wresling Alliance (LWA) wrestlers who allegedly tried to trash the restaurant around 7:45 p.m. after being refused service. Apparently, the wrestlers involved seemed to have been intoxicated (drunk) at the time of the incident, according to a Facebook user who posted the incident on Wednesday.
Shortly after trashing Quiznos, some of the wrestlers went next door to CICI's Pizza to get food. Police responding to the incident caught up with several of the wrestlers at CICI's, they were padded down, questioned and later released at the scene, according to witnesses. An 11-year-old child was also among the LWA group.
The incident at Quiznos was caught on a video surveillance camera, according to Ventura Nevarez, the General Manager at Quiznos. Nevarez said, those involved managed to mishandle, displace restaurant items and move tables during the incident. The owner of Quiznos decided not to press charges after discussing the incident with the manager of the LWA, according to Nevarez. Nevarez did not release any actual estimated damage caused by the wrestlers and considered the incident a minor and an unfortunate incident.
No apology concerning the incident has been released by the LWA or the wrestlers involved in the brawl. Quiznos is one of the main sponsors for the LWA events. Nevarez confirmed, that no one was taken into custody or cited in the incident.
The LWA wrestlers brawl inside Quiznos drew criticism by Facebook users in Laredo.
Attempts to contact the Laredo Wrestling Alliance concerning the incident were unsuccessful. 

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Lopez Jr. Under A Federal Plea Agreement Gets Three State Homicide Charges Dropped

Arthur Lopez Jr., aka, Roberto Gonzalez Orozco

Photo: U.S. Marshals Service

Reputed Latin King leader sentenced to 40 years in prison under a federal plea agreement.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 12, 2012

Milwaukee - On June 22, Arthur Lopez Jr., 31, of Milwaukee, aka, "Junior," and "Red Rider" or "Roberto Gonzalez Orozco" a Latin King gang leader and drug trafficker was sentenced to 40 years in a federal prison. Lopez Jr. was also facing three state homicide charges, but during a plea agreement with federal prosecutors, the state murder charges were dropped. He pled guilty to eight federal counts of drug charges and two counts of weapon charges, according to federal court records.
Lopez Jr., if convicted on all state homicide charges, he would have been facing three life sentences without parole in Wisconsin. But under a federal plea agreement with Lopez Jr., the murder charges were dismissed.
In November 2010, Lopez Jr. a U.S. Citizen was taken into custody in Mexico after more than 10 years on the run, according to the U.S. Marshals Service.
The Mexican Federal Investigative Agency (AFI) apprehended Lopez Jr. in 2010. He was wanted in Wisconsin on charges of conspiracy to distribute, distribution of cocaine and three counts of 1st-degree intentional homicides.
The U.S. Marshals Service had been looking for Lopez Jr. for more than a decade. He apparently called the U.S. Marshals Service in Milwaukee back in January 2006 and mocked them about how they couldn't catch up to him.
A tip led the U.S. Marshals Service and the AFI to close in on him. Lopez Jr. at the time of his arrest was using the name of Roberto Gonzalez Orozco. He turned himself in to the U.S. Consulate in Monterrey to avoid an arrest by the AFI. But, the AFI arrested him and transported him to Mexico City where he was later extradited to the U.S. to face federal charges.
Lopez Jr., a member of the Milwaukee Latin Kings operated a torture chamber in the basement of his residence at the 700 block of W. Washington St. He was the last remaining member of the Lopez family to be taken into custody. Lopez Jr. was involved in a family south side drug operation connected with the Latin Kings in the late 1990's and was in charge of buying and selling large quantities of cocaine and marijuana.
Lopez Jr. engaged in a crime spree to expand the family drug operation, including the killing of a social worker at Social Development Commission (SDC) at 931 W. Madison St. Carlos "Hollywood" Hernandez Jr., 32, was just coming out of SDC in January 25, 1999 when Lopez Jr. wearing a mask and riding a bicycle approached Hernandez Jr. and fatally shot him at point blank. He then fled the scene.
Lopez Jr. was accused of driving a vehicle involved in a driveby fatal shooting. He participating in the driveby shootings of Maximilliano Castillo Jr., 19, and Venessa Rivas, 15, on August 11, 1999. Lopez's accomplice Luis Acevedo, 20, another gang member confessed to fatally shooting both Castillo and Rivas. Acevedo was convicted and sentenced to two life terms in prison.
On March 15, 2001, Lopez Jr. was charged in Milwaukee County with three counts of first-degree intentional homicide while armed. He was also subsequently charged in federal court with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution, including a charge for conspiracy to distribute cocaine on December 22, 1999.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

MPS Teacher Sentenced To 12 Months In Prison For Child Enticement, Including Sexual Contact

Tammi L. Monty

Teacher must register as a sex offender and can never have employment, volunteer, supervise or work with children.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 10, 2012

Milwaukee - On Tuesday, Milwaukee Public School (MPS) sixth grade teacher Tammi L. Monty, 40, was sentenced by Milwaukee County Circuit Court Judge Richard J. Sankovitz to one year in prison and four years of supervision for child enticement. She was facing up to 25 years in prison.
In late May, she pleaded guilty to one felony count of child enticement, including sexual contact. MPS will now be able to finally terminate Monty's employment as a teacher.
On January 31, Monty and an eight grade 14-year-old male student were busted by a Milwaukee police officer inside Monty's SUV in the rear seat with their underwear below the knees, according to the criminal complaint. The teenager told the officer, that Monty had called him earlier in the night and wanted to "hang out" (see him). She picked him up from the south side of Milwaukee at about 1:30 a.m. and drove to the vacant lot near the 6th Police District Station.
Monty had wanted to have sex with the teenager and asked him to undress. When he was about to put on a condom they were busted by the intruding officer.
The investigation later revealed that Monty had asked the teenager to send her a picture of his genitals. She had previously send him a photo of her breasts, according to the complaint.
Monty had been suspended from the Monitoba Elementary School in the south side of Milwaukee.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Local WISN Television Broadcasting Temporarily Extended On Time Warner Cable

Hearst Television warned Time Warner cable subsrcibers to seek other alternatives to receive broadcast.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 10, 2012

Milwaukee - On Tuesday, Hearst Television WISN12, an ABC affiliate reported that their signal will be temporarily transmitted on Time Warner, despite their carriage contract agreement had expired. WISN stated that "Unfortunately, notwithstanding our best efforts to reach a new carriage agreement, we were unable to do so. However, Hearst Television has granted Time Warner a temporary extension of the negotiation deadline. 
"Because of that extension, WISN 12 will continue to be seen on Time Warner cable systems in southeast Wisconsin for the time being," according to the Hearst news report. The carriage broadcast contract agreement expired at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, but an extension was granted by Hearst.
It also warned Time Warner subcribers to seek other means to receive transmission, since no further negiotiations have been scheduled and the future of their transmission being carried by Time Warner is uncertain.
WISN confirmed that it will continue to transmit its signal free over the air and in other cable systems, as well on the following satellite providers DIRECTV and DISH Network.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Motorcycle Rider Trained K-9 To Ride Along

Photo: HNG

German shepherd mascot draws spectators for riding with biker.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 10, 2012

Greenfield - On Monday, Jim Tremmel, 60,  and his motorcycle riding companion, a female German Shepherd named Molly were spotted in a local burger business at the 7600 block of W. Layton Ave. Tremmel admitted to spectators that his vision is impaired and considers Molly as his eye seeing dog who provides directions while riding in the Harley-Davidson. His candid humor about Molly providing directions drew smiles from those who admired Molly with pink sun goggles laying out comfortly on top of the gas tank.
Molly was only eight weeks old when Tremmel began to train her to ride along in his motorcycle. Molly has rode with Tremmel for the last 26 months and weights about 55 pounds, according to Tremmel.
A previous dog rode along in Tremmel's motorcycle for eight years.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

El Farmero Extradited From Mexico To Face Homicide Charges For Three U.S. Consulate Workers

Arturo Gallegos Castrellón

Barrio Azteca gang member participated in a hit on three U.S. Consulate workers in Juárez.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 6, 2012

Toluca, Mexico - The Mexican Federal Attorney General's Office (PGR) reported that on June 28, Arturo Gallegos Castrellón, 33, also known for the following aliases, "Benny," "Farmero," "51," "Güero," "Pecas," "Tury" and "86" was extradited to the U.S. to face multiple federal charges in connection with the March 13, 2010 three U.S. Consulate employees killed in Juárez, Chihuahua. Castrellón was turned over to Special Agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Toluca. He was indicted by a federal court in the Western District of Texas and was wanted for three homicides and the use of deadly firearms, money laundering, extortion, ties to a criminal organization and drug trafficking and committing murder in a foreign country.
Castrellón, a key member of the Barrio Azteca and La Linea criminal organizations allegedly participated in the deaths of three U.S. Consulate workers. He was taken into custody by federal police in November 2010, according to the PGR.
Castrellón is also accused of killing five Mexican federal agents and 14 teenagers in Mexico.
If convicted on all federal counts, Castrellón is facing life in prison.
In 2012, José Antonio Acosta-Hernández, 34, aka, "El Diego or Blablazo," the second in command of La Linea Cartel was extradited to the U.S. in connection with the homicides of U.S. Consulate workers. Hernández pleaded guilty to money laundering, drug trafficking, racketeering and seven counts of homicide, including the three U.S. Consulate workers, Leslie Ann Enriquez Catton, her husband Arthur Redelfs and Jorge Alberto Salcido Ceniceros, a Mexican national working at the consulate and the husband of another U.S. Consulate employee who were killed in Juárez.
Hernández was sentenced to seven concurrent life sentences, three consecutive life terms, plus 20 years in a federal prison.
Hernández allegedly was involved in 1,500 homicides in Mexico. He worked under José Luis Ledezma, aka, "El JL," leader of La Linea, which is the armed branch of the Juárez Cartel. Ledezma is one of the lieutenants under Vicente Carrillo Fuentes, aka, "El Viceroy," the main leader of the Juárez Cartel.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Ticketmaster Refusing To Refund Fans After Wisin y Yandel Withdraw From 20 City Concert Tour With JLO

JLO concert Ticketmaster

Photo: HNG

Photo: Facebook

Reggaeton duo Wisin y Yandel drop out from major tour with JLO, including Enrique Iglesias and fans upset they won't get refunds.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 4, 2012
Updated

Miami, Florida - Nationwide Wisin y Yandel fans who bought tickets early are left with no option, but to attend the Jennifer Lopez' (JLO) concert without their group present, according to Ticketmaster. Ticketmaster as of Monday didn't know that Wisin y Yandel had dropped out of the 20-city JLO concert tour in the U.S., including Canada and informed fans seeking refunds that JLO was the main event and refused to provide any refunds to those requesting them.
The JLO tour apparently is replacing Wisin y Yandel with Francisco Javier Bautista Jr, 36, also known by the stage name of Frankie J, a former member of the Kumbia Kings. Frankie J originally from Tijuana, Mexico grew up in San Diego and became an R&B and Latin Pop singer. Frankie J will join the JLO concert tour.
One of the fans in the twin cities area, Jackie Gallegos purchased her ticket early to check out Wisin y Yandel in the JLO mega tour concert in Minnesota, but became disappointed that the duo decided to drop out. She requested a refund from Ticketmaster and the ticket agency refused a refund eventhough the scheduled concert in the twin cities is for August 1. Gallegos and other fans around the country are also facing the same dilema "no refunds."
A news release on Friday from the popular reggaeton group Wisin y Yandel stated, the duo had been "forced to withdraw from the upcoming North American concert tour alongside Enrique Iglesias and Jennifer Lopez due to unresolvable production issues." Their management attributed an impossibility of the Lopez' tour to provide a production the duo is accustomed of producing. The JLO tour is expected to begin on July 14.
As of Wednesday, Ticketmaster continued to offer a Wisin y Yandel VIP greet package online, which included a reserved ticket, meet and greet the duo, one individual photo with them, an autograph tour poster or photograph and one limited edition VIP meet and greet laminate card. The ticket agency has failed to update their website and is continuing to lure unsuspecting Wisin y Yandel fans to purchase tickets for the JLO concert tour. No announcement or attempt to notify those who bought tickets for the JLO tour performances from Ticketmaster has been made to alert the Wisin y Yandel fans that the duo will no longer will be part of the JLO concert tour and that Frankie J would be a replacement for the duo.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Nieto Elected President In Mexico Assuring The Return Of Nationwide Corruption In Government

Enrique Peña Nieto

Photo: PRI

The Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) once viewed as the most political corrupted party in Mexico regained power on Sunday.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 3, 2012

Mexico City - On Sunday, a majority of Mexican nationals voted to once again return the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) into political power. The PRI party had gained a reputation of wide spread corruption when it held power for 71 years by successions under different names in Mexico. The PRI lost it's presidential grip in Mexico when it was defeated in the 2000 and then again in the 2006 elections.
Attorney Enrique Peña Nieto, 45, originally from Atlacomulco, Mexico and the presidential candidate for the PRI was declared the unofficial winner on Sunday with more than 37% of the national vote. Nieto will hold office for the next six years or until 2018, when the election results become official by the Federal Electoral Tribunal.
He is currently married to Angélica Rivera, 41, a TV soap opera actress. Nieto was involved in a prior scandal for having several affairs while still married to his first wife and had two out of wedlock children. His first wife passed away after the scandal took its toll on the marriage and one of Nieto's out of wedlock children died in 2005.
The PRI is believed to have sparked the proliferation of drug cartels and government corruption that spread when it was in power.
Outgoing Mexican President Felipe Calderón from the National Action Party (PAN) tried to get rid of corruption in government and declared war on major drug cartels, including criminal organizations in the last six years in power.
Nieto is expected to be more laxed on stemming out government corruption, drug trafficking into the U.S. and defeating drug cartels in Mexico. With the PRI in power, drug cartels and criminal organizations will most likely become even stronger by expanding their drug trade and engaging in political influence in government to hold power over the multi-billion criminal operations throughout the U.S.-Mexico border.
Nieto during his campaign vowed to make the state oil monopoly firm Pemex more accessible to private investments, reform the weak tax system and hopes to create more jobs to help Mexico's economic growth.
Last Sunday, the PRI failed to get a majority 50 plus one in the lower federal house chamber of deputies (representatives) and the Senate. If any projected reforms are to move forward with President-elect Nieto, he would have to gain support from other political parties as well.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Lehman Declared The Winner In Wisconsin's Senate Seat Recount

John W. Lehman

Democrats take control of the State Senate with a 17-16 margin.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 3, 2012

Racine - On Monday, the Racine County Clerk's office declared John W. Lehman (D-Racine) the winner after a recount of votes confirmed that State Senator Van Wanggaard (R-Racine) lost by 819 votes. The final recount total results were Lehman 36,358 votes and Wanggaard with 35,539 votes.
Wanggaard intents to file a legal challenge and has until July 10 to do so.
With Lehman winning the recall election, Democrats will have control over the State Senate.
Next November, 12 of 33 Senate seats will be up for re-election, according to the GOP.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Milwaukee K-9 Sex Offender Sentenced To Seven Months In Jail

José L. Mora

58-year-old dog sex offender to be deported to Mexico after completing jail term.

By H. Nelson Goodson
July 2, 2012

Milwaukee - On Monday, a Mexican national who pleaded guilty to multiple misdeamenors for dognapping, cruelty and having sex with an animal was sentenced to serve time in jail. Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Richard J. Sankovitz sentenced Jose L. Mora, 58, to seven months at the Milwaukee County House of Corrections. He is also expected to be deported to Mexico after serving his sentence.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) also processed Mora last month for being undocumented and in the country illegally. ICE approved an orderd to deport Mora once he completes his jail term in Milwaukee County.
Last month, Mora originally from the state of Michoacan pleaded guilty to three misdeamenors, one count each of sexual gratification with an animal (dog), intentional mistreatment of an animal and disorderly conduct. Under a plea agreement, the court dismissed Mora's three other charges of dognapping, sexual gratification with an animal and intentional mistreatment of an animal.
On March 9, Mora was taken into custody by Milwaukee police after Maribel Sánchez-Murillo, 29, filed a complaint alleging that she witnessed Mora raping her dog named "Diego" in a family garage at the 1500 block of S. 9th St. A video surveillance camera inside the garage was live stream and transmitted horrid and cruel images to an inside house monitor showing Mora forcing the 1-year old German Shepherd to have sex with him.

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile