Elizabeth’s Neighborhood

Thanks everyone for attending the Open House on Saturday! For those interested, here some classes that are still available...

#1005A/B - Introduction To Head Drawing A and B

Instructor: Mario Hernandez
Saturday, 10am-1pm

This course is an excellent opportunity for students to learn the craft of head drawing. It will provide each student with the necessary understanding and experience to draw the human head with authority. Each session will consist of a lecture or demonstration that will guide students step-by-step through the process of drawing from a live model. The traditional elements of life drawing will be emphasized including the structure and planes of the head, the values of light and shadow, edges, portrait composition and drawing techniques. The course will also include exercises and assignments aimed to help students greatly hone their portrait drawing skills.

#1002A/B- Head and Figure Drawing with the Reilly Method A and B

Instructor: Israel Martinez
Wednesday, 10am-1pm

This is an introductory figure and head drawing class, concentrating on the methods of Frank Reilly. You may see a broader explanation of Frank Reilly’s methods here . Using 6 simple lines as the starting point for drawing the figure, Israel Martinez will instruct and demonstrate how to simply draw a figure that is solid and proportional, having weight and balance. Your drawing will improve drastically and will have economy of line. The class will warm-up by drawing 5-minute poses, followed by instructor demonstration, and then 20 minute poses that will teach you to block-in structure quickly.

#2380A/B - Alla Prima Head/Figure Painting A and B

Instructor: Ignat Ignatov
Friday, 10am-4pm

This course will consist of painting demonstrations and lectures covering the important elements of painting such as value, color and edges, as well as composition and design. This class will also cover the limited palette and the amazing advantages that it offers. Each week the artists will paint from life a different model using the Alla Prima (wet into wet technique) and will receive individual instruction and critiques. The goal is to advance your skills in the direct painting method while applying the fundamentals to achieve a solid understanding of painting the human form in various light conditions and settings.

#2367A/B - Figure Painting A and B

Instructor: Joseph Todorovitch
Wednesday, 12pm-6pm

We will paint the figure from life and discuss choices for setting up the pose, composition, color harmony, lighting, pacing, and bringing the painting to a decent level of resolve. We'll also discuss the language of describing paint in order to better understand our mixtures. Joseph will explain his approach and demonstrate by painting along and illustrating his ideas about the approach. Pose lengths will vary from single days to multiple days. Previous drawing experience is highly recommended.

#1122 - Sketching the Figure (Quick Pose/Head/Figure Construction)

Instructor: Sergio Sanchez
Tuesday, 7pm-10pm

The student will receive study in drawing the head and figure, using quick-sketch and longer pose study of the figure and head. This is a broad overview of the many aspects of drawing the figure.

To view our whole schedule of classes, go to www.laafa.org/sessions/calendar . Or feel free to call us at, 818.708.9232. The Winter Quarter starts January 11th!

	Loss for Government As Board of Inquiry Rules LtCol Chessani Not Guilty of Misconduct December 14, 2009 ANN ARBOR, MI – Late last Friday afternoon (Eastern Standard Time), after three hours of deliberation, the military Board of Inquiry ruled LtCol Chessani was not guilty of misconduct and should not be demoted.  Nevertheless, the Board’s ruling produced a mixed result.  It ruled Chessani must now retire because he displayed “substandard performance” by failing to conduct a more detailed investigation of the civilians killed as a result of the house clearing actions of four Marines after they were ambushed in Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005. The Board’s decision came after a 1½ hour impassioned closing argument on behalf of LtCol Chessani made by Thomas More Law Center attorney Robert Muise.  Muise argued Chessani was a scapegoat to appease the anti-war media and anti-war politician John Murtha.  “Here’s your scapegoat.  Here’s your fall guy, ” said Muise as he pointed at Chessani, who sat silently at the defense table.  Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, commented, “It’s indicative of the weakness of the government’s case that it could not prove misconduct at the Board hearing where the normal rules of evidence didn’t apply and the burden of proof was lessened.  We are all greatly relieved that the Board ruled LtCol Chessani was not guilty of misconduct and should not be demoted, However, I believe the overwhelming evidence supported a total and complete exoneration of LtCol Chessani.” Not one of LtCol Chessni’s superiors ─ including top generals ─ who received his report of dead civilians considered such deaths unusual.  Not one ordered a further investigation.  Instead, they commended him for a job well done.  In fact, LtCol Chessani’s immediate superior told him that no investigation was needed because it was a bona fide combat action - consistent with the orders in effect at the time: no investigation of civilian deaths related to combat action.  That order was changed in April, 2006, well after the Haditha incident. LtCol Chessani’s commanding general, Major General Huck, reported up the chain of command, “I support our account and do not see the necessity for further investigation.”  This same commanding General was allowed to retire without going to a Board of Inquiry, and he was allowed to retire as a Major General. Consequently, not one of LtCol Chessani’s superiors faced, nor will they ever face, a court-martial or a Board of Inquiry for their actions in relation to November 19, 2005.  Of the eight Marines initially charged in the incident, six Marines, including Chessani, had criminal charges dismissed and one was acquitted.  Only one Marine still faces criminal charges. The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes America’s Christian heritage and moral values, including the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life.  It supports a strong national defense and an independent and sovereign United States of America.  The Law Center accomplishes its mission through litigation, education, and related activities.  It does not charge for its services.  The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization.  You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org. Link to Board of Inquiry Order http://www.thomasmore.org/downloads/sb_thomasmore/ChessaniBOIAugust2009.pdf

#1010 - Beginning Figure Drawing

Instructor: Alex Alvarado
Sunday, 10am-1pm

This course is an introduction to the fundamental principals of sketching and drawing the human figure. Topics covered will include: Gesture drawing and the study of body movements and kinetics, the basic geometry of the human figure, the general proportions of the human head and figure, value studies and basic rendering technique. This class will start off with short 5-min poses and gradually advance to 2 1/2 hour poses.
EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT: Enroll by December 19th and get $25 off

#1001 - Basic Drawing Fundamentals

Instructor: Eric Pedersen
Saturday, 10am-1pm

This course introduces the fundamentals of drawing. How to hold a charcoal pencil, simple shapes, volumes, c-curves, s-curves, straights, edges, 4-value system, thumbnails, introductory composition, light sources, core shadows, reflective lights, are all covered in this course. This is an excellent course for students with little to no formal drawing training at all, or those wanting a refresher course in the basics.

#2223 - The Verdaccio Approach to Painting

Instructor: Brianna Lee
Wednesday, 7pm-10pm

In this course students will focus on drawing the subject accurately, learn to transfer the drawing and how to prepare the Verdaccio under-painting for the final stages of glazing. Glazing can give luminous effects that cannot be achieved by direct painting. It is especially good for painting the translucent and luminous qualities of human flesh. This course is great for those who are new to painting because it begins with the drawing stage and introduces painting in a very methodical and simplified manner. This class is also suitable for intermediate to advanced students who are interested in learning how the Renaissance masters painted and how to make a painting glow. The course will consist of two 5 week paintings, one still-life and one portrait.

#2380B - Alla Prima Head/Figure Painting A and B

Instructor: Ignat Ignatov
Friday, 10am-4pm
This course will consist of painting demonstrations and lectures covering the important elements of painting such as value, color and edges, as well as composition and design. This class will also cover the limited palette and the amazing advantages that it offers. Each week the artists will paint from life a different model using the Alla Prima (wet into wet technique) and will receive individual instruction and critiques. The goal is to advance your skills in the direct painting method while applying the fundamentals to achieve a solid understanding of painting the human form in various light conditions and settings.

#2800B - Alla Prima Impressionist Painting A and B

Instructor: Vadim Zang
Monday, 10am-4pm

This painting course will emphasize tonal construction of the figure, the light and shadow relationship, and science of color. Vadim Zang will explain limited palette technique, giving demonstrations to help the student in applying tonal knowledge to paint.Students will then progress on to full color, with control of paint application. Individual critiques and instruction will guide the student.

#2367A - Figure Painting A and B

Instructor: Joseph Todorovitch
Wednesday, 12pm-3pm
We will paint the figure from life and discuss choices for setting up the pose, composition, color harmony, lighting, pacing, and bringing the painting to a decent level of resolve. We'll also discuss the language of describing paint in order to better understand our mixtures. Joseph will explain his approach and demonstrate by painting along and illustrating his ideas about the approach. Pose lengths will vary from single days to multiple days. Previous drawing experience is highly recommended.

The Winter Quarter starts January 4th. If you are interested in taking any of these classes, call 818.708.9232! To view a list of all our other classes, visit our website at www.laafa.org/sessions/calendar

Reminder: Open house Sat. Dec. 19th from 11am-4pm!

“Grunt Civilian” Gives Account of LtCol. Chessani's many Character Witnesses December 10, 2009 Email post (#2) by H. Hamilton – A report written by a concerned CA citizen attending the Board of Inquiry for LtCol Jeffrey Chessani.  IF the Board of Inquiry doesn't find Lt Col. Chessani INNOCENT of all charges, accusations, and wrong doing, it won't be the fault of Thomas More Law Center!  Lead by Col. Shelburne and Robert Muse, this is one of the BEST, nothing gets by, DEFENSE TEAMS this court observer has ever witnessed.    A finding other than "DROP THESE RIDICULOUS CHARGES BECAUSE CHESSANI IS ACTUALLY SUPERMAN!" would be because the Board is deaf, dumb, and blind!  (or the fix is in...)   As I entered the court room, late, a phone caller was giving information on how he would figure out Chessani's retirement based on his 22 years, 3 months service with regards to the Board's decision of IF he had to retire, and IF as a LtColonel or a Major.  (Considering Chessani was a fast tracked officer who would have been at least a full Colonel by now, punishment has already been instituted and THAT is a travesty!  Anything lower is double indemnity if you ask me...)   Today may have been the easiest day for the Defense... One after another, a parade of long term Marine co-officers and friends, even his pastor, as character witnesses, barraged the Board and prosecution with a long list of detailed compliments to the great Lt. Colonel...   Colonel Paul Greg Allen (ret.), a formidable man with a 30 year 8 mos. career, said Chessani was a "Natural leader on one of the most demanding tours (both Battles of Fallujah) and I was excited to get him there..."  Chessani is, "Proactive... Quality exceptionally high... Never an over reaction as a commander..."  When asked if there was a noticable difference when Chessani was relieved of duty -- "There was never a grievance, his work product was no different..."  (And something like) lesser men sacrifice their integrity -- Not Lt. Col Chessani!  (I couldn't write fast enough!) "Highest moral integrity -- Absolute integrity!" Allen had seen "many opportunities to stumble and fall and he (Chessani) has never done that."  "Command confidence under extreme conditions -- no stripping Marines of their dignity when chastised -- Top 1% or 2% of ALL Marines I've served with -- ONE OF A HANDFUL OF OFFICERS I'D TRUST IN COMBAT WITH MY ONLY SON, MY WIFE'S LIFE, AND MY OWN..." (Yeah, WOW!!!)   Pastor Ernest Ferdinand (Marcus?) Merritt, an exceptional man with an exceptionally more than pleasant disposition, who had coincidently served in the USMC...  Admittedly, I was spellbound...  I took no notes -- I was also watching the Board Members to see IF they had any reaction, any signs of humanity, with all of the BEAUTIFUL things said so vividly about the Chessani Family, the devotion, the close friendship of their wives and kids, Mrs. Chessani's Sunday School teaching, the Congregation always giving the most votes to Jeffrey Chessani for the top committees which Jeffrey turned down 3 years ago so as not to blemish the Congregation -- at the Congregation's insistence, he has since accepted the 2 posts...  A Man For All Seasons...   Sgt. Maj. William Shaw -- BAM! (They had to slow him down at one point for the court stenographer's sake!  Mine too!!)  20 years active duty and a ton of duty including amphibious assault...  GREAT ENERGY!  Spoke to Chessani's always being out amongst the men, never micro-managing, "Very Patient like a father... ALWAYS open and willing to talk about concerns..."  LtCol. Chessani was one of the top 2 commanders out of all 20 he'd ever worked with... "Great character, Moral compass, Warrior, Trainer..."  When asked if he'd ever want to serve under the LtCol. again?  "I WOULD SEEK IT OUT!"   Lt. Col. Carla Maureen(?) Jessup, now Provost Marshall in K. Bay, HI...  A WOMAN OF GREAT SUBSTANCE!  Anti-terrorist, Battalion Commander, Perris Island, a whole bunch of stuff!!  She's known the LtCol. and his family for almost 25 years BECAUSE THE CHESSANI'S ALWAYS HAD THE NON-MARRIEDS OVER TO THEIR HOUSE FOR MEALS AND FOR CERTAIN, CHRISTMAS!!  "Most honest leader of Marines... Genuinely cares for the people around him...  HE ALWAYS DOES THE RIGHT THING 'CAUSE IT'S THE RIGHT THING TO DO..."  Has never known him to or would never expect him to ignore ANY kind of problem..."  "He cares for everybody the same... MY FAITH HAS BECOME STRONGER BECAUSE OF HIM...  I BELIEVE JEFF HAS VALIANTLY SERVED THE CORPS AND HIS MARINES."    Colonel B. Byrne: (After A 40 minute break, I entered late...  Then it was hard to keep up, I'm no pro...)  Byrne was in charge of fitness reports of Majors, (GUESS WHO WAS AND STILL HOLDS THE #1 PLACE of ALL Majors reviewed?!  Yup, Chessani!) RE 1st and 2nd Fallujah fights -- "Exceptional!"  He described a number of circumstances in a very large battlespace that included Fallujah, Abu Ghraib, Zadon, etc. where information had to be communicated to his Bravo Command, 4 Marines killed in complex attack ambush...  (not unlike Haditha...) The Battle for Fallujah occurred within 10 days of Chessani's arrival, no question he knew what to do, had experienced a child being killed in a house and he knew to report up the command, Regimental Command would make the decision to investigate, if not, you move forward...  As to Military Character, "Jeff is an exceptional officer."  As to Personal Character, "Jeff has a personal sense of honor that motivates him."  (It is important to note that Chessani is accussed of never having "investigated" the civilian deaths in Haditha...  RIDICULOUS!)  After Byrne had explicitly said that Reg Command makes the decision to investigate after the reports are "pushed up and pushed down," General Craparata asked the absurd -- "But don't you think that it is your duty to investigate every civilian death?"  Answer: NO! NOT IF IT IS A BONAFIDE COMBAT ACTION and you CAN'T investigate IF YOU'RE IN THE FIGHT! (AS IN HADITHA!!) Then Byrne added something very poignant, "And if one of YOUR Marines is thought to be culpable, YOU MAY NOT INVESTIGATE IT YOURSELF! (obvious reasons -- but that's exactly what the Board wanted!)   Since there was a long break before General Toolan's testimony and my children needed me, I had to drop the ball.................    We'll find out tomorrow -- AND TOMORROW IS (ARE?) CLOSING ARGUMENTS!!   IF ANYONE IS WONDERING IF THEIR DONATION TO THOMAS MORE LAW CENTER ON BEHALF OF LT.COL.CHESSANI WAS WORTH IT -- IT'S THE BEST MONEY YOU EVER SPENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This email was written and submitted by a private citizen not affiliated with the Thomas More Law Center.

LtCol Chessani’s Board of Inquiry Continues ─ “Stand Up” Marine Officers Substantiate LtCol Chessani’s Innocence December 10, 2009 ANN ARBOR, MI – There was some good news in yesterday’s Board of Inquiry hearing taking place at Camp Pendleton, California.  Despite the obvious bias of their high command, “stand-up” Marine officers, Majors Jeffrey Dinsmore and Luke McConnell, in strong and unequivocal testimony, substantiated LtCol Chessani’s innocence. Today, a long line of “stand up” field grade officers and enlisted men who served with LtCol Chessani are expected to testify as to his outstanding military character. Major Jeffrey Dinsmore was LtCol Chessani’s intelligence officer.  He has served as an active-duty Marine for over 23 years.  In yesterday’s testimony, he informed Board members of the complexity of the daylong engagement in Haditha on November 19, 2005. He also informed the Board his intelligence assessment before November 19, 2005 indicated Marines were going to be attacked in Hadtiha that day.  Follow-on intelligence after November 19, 2005 confirmed to Major Dinsmore and LtCol Chessani that the attack on November 19, 2005 was one they were expecting from foreign fighters—namely Syrians.   Next to testify, was Major Luke McConnell, company commander of the Marines originally charged in the case.  He explained to Board members that he spoke to his Marines, as their commanding officer, during and after the engagement.  He personally fought in the engagement.  He confirmed his company was in a daylong battle with insurgents.  He also went to where the Marines entered homes to clear out insurgents.  Major McConnell was briefed by Lieutenant Kallop, the units platoon leader, that he ordered the Marines to clear the homes of insurgents and unfortunately there were civilians killed as collateral damage.  Major McConnell testified that all the Marines he spoke to that day confirmed in his mind the Marines were doing the right thing.  Major McConnell testified LtCol Chessani came to Major McConnell’s battle space to be debriefed by him.  LtCol Chessani and Major McConnell toured the battle space together and spoke about the days events.  Several times after November 19, 2005 Major McConnell and LtCol Chessani spoke about the Marines actions in great detail. The bad news, as predicted, the government, in its efforts to disgrace and destroy LtCol Chessani, has consistently ignored the rules of fundamental fairness by introducing tainted evidence from other cases that had nothing to do with the allegations against LtCol Chessani, and which would never be allowed in court-martial proceedings. Part of the evidence the government recently introduced is forensic reconstruction of where the Marines assaulted through residential structures from which they were fired upon.  These Marines include Lance Corporals Tatum and Sharratt, who have since been exonerated.  This evidence was refuted at earlier hearings.   Furthermore, the government was allowed to introduce evidence clearly not relevant to whether LtCol Chessani was substandard in performance of duty or willfully negligent in not accurately reporting the day of the battle (November 19, 2005).  Much of the problematic evidence being placed on the record comes from the enlisted Marines’ cases, which do not involve issues before this board.  The most egregious evidence allowed has been pictures of dead civilians that LtCol Chessani never saw, meant only to inflame the Board members— including giant, poster size blow-ups of the dead. Tomorrow the board will hear closing arguments. The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has been defending LtCol Chessani at no charge.  The Law Center’s attorneys, Robert Muise and Brian Rooney, both former Marine officers, have teamed up with the detailed military attorneys, LtCol Jon Shelburne, USMC, and Capt Jeffrey King, USMC. The misconduct allegations against LtCol Chessani claim he failed to properly report and investigate the November 19, 2005 Haditha incident.  However, the indisputable evidence proves LtCol Chessani immediately reported the deaths of the 15 civilian Iraqis to his superiors.  Not one of his Marine superiors hearing of the civilian deaths ─ including top generals ─ considered it unusual.  Not one ordered a further investigation.  Instead, they commended him for a job well done.  In fact, LtCol Chessani’s immediate superior told him no investigation was needed because it was a bona fide combat action ─ consistent with orders in effect at the time: no investigation of civilian deaths related to combat action.  That order was changed in April, 2006, well after the Haditha incident. LtCol Chessani’s commanding general, Major General Huck, reported up the chain of command, “I support our account and do not see the necessity for further investigation.”  This same commanding General was allowed to retire without going to a Board of Inquiry, and he was allowed to retire as a Major General. Consequently, not one of LtCol Chessani’s superiors faced, nor will they ever face, a court-martial or a Board of Inquiry for their actions in relation to November 19, 2005.  Of the eight Marines initially charged in the incident, six Marines, including Chessani, had criminal charges dismissed and one was acquitted.  Only one Marine still faces criminal charges. The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes America’s Christian heritage and moral values, including the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life.  It supports a strong national defense and an independent and sovereign United States of America.  The Law Center accomplishes its mission through litigation, education, and related activities.  It does not charge for its services.  The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization.  You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.   Link to Board of Inquiry Order http://www.thomasmore.org/downloads/sb_thomasmore/ChessaniBOIAugust2009.pdf

Direct from the Pendleton Battlefront, A Self Described “Grunt Civilian” gives First Hand Account of Chessani Board Of Inquiry (BOI)... December 09, 2009 Email post by H. Hamilton – The report from a concerned CA citizen attending the Board of Inquiry for LtCol Jeffrey Chessani.  Today (12-08-09) started with LtCol Kevin Gonzalez who was GREAT AND 3-4 HOURS!  Brigadier General Lewis Craparotta (Board member) and the Defense stopped the ongoing, ad nauseum questioning of witnesses since Board already has testimony...  Lieutenant Colonel Brian Christmas (under Colonel Stephen Davis who says Davis is his hero) was great and another Chessani protagonist who was with Davis 19 Nov '05...  Colonel Christopher Conlin was there but they've cancelled him, Colonel David Furness too...  Colonel Julian Alford spoke in the afternoon -- he has been with Chessani throughout their careers and reassured the Board that IF there was any question of the LAW OF WAR being broken, Chessani would have investigated...  Lieutenant General Natonski (USMC Forces Command) was there...  He said EVERY civilian kill, every time, should be investigated -- pretty funny when the Defense asked him if that went for the 2nd Battle for Fallujah and he had to say "No" -- he added that all civilians had been asked to leave so they were "pretty sure" all kills were insurgents...  yeah, right...   BUT when he started, everything he said was what Chessani HAD done, LTG Natonski was saying things about trusting subordinates to get you the right info was essential (Chessani did!), that it was a "Marine's duty" and the "expectations" were to trust the reports coming up and with ensuing correctional reports changes made (Chessani and Davis did!).  SO when asked why he's relieved Chessani of his command, LTG Natonski said it was more than just the killings...  It was also: o The Humvee that tipped over (oh goodness!  My son-in-law as a 1st Lt. o ran a Humvee into a small canal on his first time out in the thing which was great fun for his entire platoon making fun of his "education!!! ...He's now a Company Commander...) o A HAZING that took place (Oh NO not a hazing!! In the military?!!  I thought that was just for college kids and Boy Scouts!) o The Sky news episode that maybe Don or Clo knows about -- something with a sniper? (They probably killed a nice insurgent...) o A (better sit down...) HIGH STAKES poker game...  Yup, the amount:  TWO tril... mmmil... no, thousand dollars... that's $2,000.00 -- TOTALLY OUT OF CONTROL...  When LTG Natonski was done and heading for the door we all had to stand...As he approached the door, he looked neither left nor right...  I was at the door so out of respect for the man who had spoken of THE RIGHT THINGS TO DO, I opened it for him AND his minion followed, neither one saying THANK YOU.....  So I put my head out the door and loudly whispered, "YOU'RE WELCOME!" at his back -- @?#*~!   12/09 witnesses:  8:00am 1. Major General Richard P. Mills (by phone from Afghanistan) Commander, 1st Marine Division.   2. Major Dinsmoor   3. Major McConnell   4. Hyatt   12/10 Thursday   1. Allen   2. Jessop   3. Shaw (?)   4. Merritt   5. Drake   6. Toolan

Hi, it's D.R. It's a cold, damp day here. Yesterday I went to church. Later in the day, I stopped at the Office Depot and got some new markers. I'm still basking in the happiness of owning an Aluratek Internet radio, which can receive signals for any of tens of thousands of online stations, all without having to turn on your computer. I have saved a bunch of favorites, from U.S. music channels to the traffic reports from overseas. I just find it so peaceful, in a very odd way, to listen to voices reciting over and over again, what are the latest traffic incidents from London or Cardiff or someplace. I tried to get one of the main radio stations in Kingston, Jamaica, because I thought the music would be really good, but for some reason it was having reception problems over the weekend. Hope it's all straightened out soon. Anyway, I can get stations from almost any country on the planet. It's great! And all I had to pay for was the radio; there are no monthly charges.

My dog is okay. She was a little sluggish this weekend, but that could be due to the weather. Today she ate a good breakfast and went for a walk, so that's pretty much normal.

I also had a lot of fun with my Sony e-book Reader. I'm almost halfway through a good mystery novel set in Australia. This thing is helping me get through books a lot faster-- for some reason, I find the electronic print a lot easier to take in than some of the small fonts you can see on a regular page. I don't think I'll stop reading regular books just yet, but this machine is very good if you want to take a lot of book files somewhere, without filling up your carry-bag.

That's it for the moment. I'll see you soon. Thanks very much!  :)

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Congressional candidate Lieutenant Colonel West speaking at the American Freedom tour in Fort Lauderdale Florida at the Revolution Nightclub.
For more information about the West for Congress campaign or to become involved please follow this link http://allenwestforcongress.com/.

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LtCol Chessani’s Board of Inquiry Begins ─ Battle-Hardened Marine Veterans View Proceedings With Dismay December 04, 2009 ANN ARBOR, MI – On Wednesday, December 2nd, in a military courtroom at Camp Pendleton, California, the government began its case against an American warrior.  They know this is their last chance to disgrace and destroy the 22 - year career of Marine LtCol Jeffrey Chessani, and it’s evident they are pulling out all the stops.  Many of the spectators in the small courtroom were battle-hardened Marine veterans of World War II, Korea, and Vietnam.  Some were veterans of the Korean Chosin Reservoir battle, considered the most violent small unit fighting in the history of American warfare.  All the veterans looked on in disbelief as government lawyers ridiculed a loyal combat officer.  The consensus among these battle-hardened veterans ─ they never would have won their battles had their officers been subjected to the same kind of treatment as LtCol Chessani. LtCol Chessani had served 3 tours of duty in Iraq and was considered one of America’s most effective combat commanders.  Chessani, a deeply religious man who read his Bible every morning and evening while in Iraq, stoically listened to the government lawyer’s demeaning remarks, while his wife, pregnant with their seventh child, sat behind him reading her Bible. Richard Thompson, President of the Thomas More Law Center commented: “What has happened to LtCol Chessani is a good argument to get rid of lawyers in the combat arms.  Combat troops don’t need pencil pushers second guessing commanders and troops in the field, long after an event, in their air-condition offices.  The fact that this hearing is even taking place does a grave injustice, not only to Chessani and his family, but to America.  LtCol Chessani should be leading his troops, not defending himself in a courtroom.” LtCol Paul Atterbury, the government prosecutor (called “Recorders” at a Board of Inquiry) presented the opening statement for the government, claiming there was no firefight.  He claimed that the Marines faced a phantom menace, and LtCol Chessani did not properly investigate and report the overreaction of his Marines.  LtCol Jon Shelburne, one of Chessani’s defense lawyers, countered that Marines were ambushed in this daylong battle and were engaged in a protracted pitched fight against well-armed insurgents.  LtCol Shelburne further stated that LtCol Chessani reported all he knew of the battle, as he knew it, up the chain of command. The differences between the Board of Inquiry and the previous court martial quickly became evident.  Col Kurt Brubaker, USMC, the legal advisor to the Board of Inquiry, is tasked with ruling on all objections.  Even though photographs of dead Iraqis would not have been allowed into evidence at the previous criminal trial because they were unduly prejudicial and had little relevance, particularly since LtCol Chessani never saw them, the legal advisor will allow the government to show them to the hearing panel because the rules of evidence to not apply. Moreover, defense attempts to disqualify Brig. Gen. Lewis Craparotta, the President and senior member of the Board, who during pre-hearing questioning expressed a personal view that investigating every civilian death is the right approach because “that’s the way to protect Marines, ” also failed.  Defense attorney LtCol Shelburne had challenged the fact that he was sitting on the Board of Inquiry with a pre-existing opinion of what to do in a similar situation as LtCol Chessani.  The Board’s legal advisor rehabilitated Craparotta by personally questioning him to show he could set aside his opinion, and then ruled he could stay on the panel. The legal advisor, however, did prevent the introduction of the former Article 32 hearing report on the grounds that its conclusions went to the ultimate issue that the board members were required to decide independently. A Board of Inquiry is an administrative board where the rules of evidence do not apply.  Evidence that would likely be thrown out in a criminal proceeding may be considered by the Board.  The government’s burden of proof is lessened.  Rather than having to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, the government only has to prove “misconduct” by a preponderance of evidence.  If the Board finds “misconduct, ” then they will further determine whether LtCol Chessani should be forced to retire or not.  If the Board determines LtCol Chessani should retire, then the Board must then make a recommendation to the Secretary of the Navy as to whether he should retire as a Lieutenant Colonel, or as a Major—a decision that could cost this Marine and his family over four hundred thousand dollars in pay and benefits according to an expert retained by the defense.  The Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, has been defending LtCol Chessani at no charge.  The Law Center’s attorneys, Robert Muise and Brian Rooney, both former Marine officers, have teamed up with the detailed military attorneys, LtCol Jon Shelburne, USMC, and Capt Jeffrey King, USMC. The dismissed criminal charges against LtCol Chessani were triggered by a heart-pounding house-to-house, room-by-room combat action taken by four Marines in his battalion after being ambushed by insurgents in Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005.  Along with several insurgents, 15 civilians also died in this day long fight.  The civilian casualties were tragic, but not uncommon in Iraq where insurgents would use them as shields. The “misconduct” allegations against LtCol Chessani are based on the following: failing to properly report and investigate the November 19, 2005 incident.  However, the indisputable evidence shows that LtCol Chessani immediately reported the deaths of the 15 civilian Iraqis to his superiors.  Not one of his Marine superiors hearing of the civilian deaths ─ including top generals ─ considered it unusual.  Not one ordered a further investigation.  Instead, they commended him for a job well done.  In fact, LtCol Chessani’s immediate superior told him that no investigation was needed because it was a bona fide combat action—which was consistent with the orders in effect at the time: no investigation of civilian deaths related to combat action.  That order was changed in April, 2006, well after the Haditha incident. LtCol Chessani’s commanding general, Major General Huck, reported up the chain of command, “I support our account and do not see the necessity for further investigation.”  This same commanding General was allowed to retire without going to a Board of Inquiry, and he was allowed to retire as a Major General. Consequently, not one of LtCol Chessani’s superiors faced, nor will they ever face, a court-martial or a Board of Inquiry for their actions in relation to November 19, 2005.  Of the eight Marines initially charged in the incident, six Marines, including Chessani, had criminal charges dismissed and one was acquitted.  Only one Marine still faces criminal charges. Live testimony at the Board of Inquiry will begin on December 7, 2009.  The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes America’s Christian heritage and moral values, including the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life.  It supports a strong national defense and an independent and sovereign United States of America.  The Law Center accomplishes its mission through litigation, education, and related activities.  It does not charge for its services.  The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization.  You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org. Link to Board of Inquiry Order http://www.thomasmore.org/downloads/sb_thomasmore/ChessaniBOIAugust2009.pdf

	LtCol Jeffrey Chessani Board of Inquiry Starts Tomorrow Tuesday, December 1, 2009 ANN ARBOR, MI – Four years after the so-called “Haditha Massacre, ” a massacre the government now knows never happened, the final chapter in the tragic persecution of LtCol Jeffrey Chessani, USMC, will begin when he faces a Board of Inquiry (BOI) starting on Wednesday, December 2, 2009 at 9 AM in a military courtroom located at the Marine base at Camp Pendleton, California.  LtCol Chessani served his nation for over 20 years, including three combat tours in Iraq as well as duty in the first Persian Gulf war.  He is one of America’s finest combat commanders.  His official fitness report, which covered the date of the Haditha incident, characterized him as a superb leader who demonstrated moral courage with unlimited potential and value to the Marine Corps. You can still make a special tax-deductible year-end donation to help with LtCol Chessani’s defense.  The three-person Board of Inquiry consists of a one-star general and two colonels, all of whom were selected by the Convening Authority, Marine LtGen George Flynn.  The three officers will determine whether LtCol Chessani engaged in any “misconduct” related to the Haditha incident. The misconduct charges against LtCol Chessani stem from a fierce house-to-house, room-by-room combat action taken by four Marines in his battalion after being ambushed by insurgents in Haditha, Iraq on November 19, 2005.  Along with several insurgents, 15 civilians also died.  LtCol Chessani is the highest ranking officer targeted by the investigation of the Haditha incident that was conducted by over 65 NCIS agents (Naval Criminal Investigative Service) ─ the largest investigation in that agency’s history ─ with the expenditure of millions of taxpayer dollars.  Nonetheless, government prosecutors lost at every stage of the criminal process.  Even though the government decided give up on a criminal prosecution of LtCol Chessani, as the last chance to punish him, it ordered a Board of Inquiry to determine whether he was guilty of misconduct. Lawyers from the Thomas More Law Center, a national public interest law firm based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, teamed up with detailed military defense attorneys LtCol Jon Shelburne, USMC, and Capt Jeffrey King, USMC to defend LtCol Chessani throughout the criminal process. The Law Center attorneys assigned to the case are Robert Muise and Brian Rooney, both former Marine officers. Because a Board of Inquiry is an administrative hearing, the normal rules of evidence do not apply.  The Board can consider material without the benefit of a cross examination; they can consider the tainted record of the Article 32 Hearing over the objections of LtCol Chessani’s defense team; LtCol Chessani cannot subpoena witnesses—he can only request them; and the government need only prove misconduct by a preponderance of the evidence (50.1%) rather than beyond a reasonable doubt as required in a criminal proceeding. On December 2, 2009, both sides will make opening statements and provide Board members with documentary material they want the Board to review.  It is anticipated the Board will receive thousands of pages of material.  In order to have an opportunity to review all the submitted material, the Board will adjourn until December 7th. Beginning on December 7th, the government, and then LtCol Chessani, through their respective attorneys, will present live witness testimony.  There could be as many as 40 witnesses called to testify.  This portion of the BOI should last through the entire week and perhaps longer.  After all evidence and testimony have been presented, both sides will make closing arguments. The Board members will then deliberate and render their decision as to whether or not they find misconduct.  If the board finds no misconduct, the case will finally be closed.  However, if the board finds misconduct they will then make a recommendation as to whether LtCol Chessani should be allowed to retire at his present rank or reduced to major.  This is only a recommendation.  The final decision as to retirement grade rests with the Secretary of the Navy. Richard Thompson, President and Chief Counsel of the Thomas More Law Center, commented, “I’m outraged at the obvious double standard the government used as it gave Army Major Nidal Hasson every benefit of the doubt because of political correctness.  Yet, it they had no problem in persecuting this loyal Marine officer because he refused to throw his men under the bus to appease an anti-war politician and the Iraqi government. Any finding of misconduct handed down by the Board of inquiry would be a miscarriage of justice because LtCol Chessani did nothing wrong.” The Thomas More Law Center defends and promotes America’s Christian heritage and moral values, including the religious freedom of Christians, time-honored family values, and the sanctity of human life.  It supports a strong national defense and an independent and sovereign United States of America.  The Law Center accomplishes its mission through litigation, education, and related activities.  It does not charge for its services.  The Law Center is supported by contributions from individuals, corporations and foundations, and is recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) organization.  You may reach the Thomas More Law Center at (734) 827-2001 or visit our website at www.thomasmore.org.