mikew0321-blog - Tumblr blog

[mikew0321-blog]

Portuguese Instructive Social Club: Tax Fraud? | Elizabeth, NJ

Portuguese Instructive Social Club: The Portuguese Instructive Social Club (PISC) is known to be a respectable organization by many. But, how respectable is it really? I know I'm going to upset a LOT of people with this article and that isn't my intent, but it's something people need to know. The following pictures were sent to me by another concerned Resident and very close friend:

 Being the founder of a nonprofit, I'm well aware that nonprofit organizations aren't allowed to meddle in politics. Consequently, they risk losing their IRS Tax Exempt status as a result.  We began to research things a bit and were able to confirm this organization lost its tax exempt status on May 15, 2016. We learned it was due to: "Automatic Revocation" for "failure to file a Form 990-series return or notice for three consecutive years." (See picture below)

  A little more online digging led to the following links/information: Portuguese Instructive Social Club GuidesStar Profile: "This organization has not appeared on the IRS Business Master File in a number of months. It may have merged with another organization or ceased operations.   This organization's exempt status was automatically revoked by the IRS for failure to file a Form 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, or 990-PF for 3 consecutive years. Further investigation and due diligence are warranted.   This organization is not registered with the IRS."   CitizenAudit.org Shows Latest Tax Filing Date of 12/2012, w/Over $2.2M in Assets   Quick Facts: Ein: 226017565 Date Established: 1979/10 Deductibility Status: Contributions are not deductible Revenue: $163,188 as of 2012/12 Income: $557,750 as of 2012/12 Assets: $2,208,319 as of 2012/12 Accounting Year End: 2012/12 Latest Tax Filing (date): 2012/12 Classification: Nonprofit type: 501(c)(07) Pleasure, Recreational, or Social Club Organization Type: Corporation Foundation Description: All organizations except 501(c)(3) Activities: Other social activities Sports, Athletic Recreational and Social Activities Is The Portuguese Instructive Social Club Under Another Name?   Seeming like they could be operating under another name, I performed the following Google Search. The search revealed current information, ultimately negating that possibility. www.ClubPortuguese.com PISCNJ On Facebook  PISC Listing on GoElizabethNJ.com  At this point, it's fairly safe to say that "PISC" or "Portuguese Instructive (and) Social Club" is still the operational name. Since we wanted to know more about the organization, we continued our research. While I was reading what I found, my "partner in crime" also found the deed, which revealed some rather noteworthy details. (See pictures below)

A quick look at the first page of the title will show that the Portuguese Instructive Social Club was purchased by the State of New Jersey's Department of Transportation (NJ DOT) on October 28, 2002. Another look at the last page of the document and you will see the Notary was a Mary Carvalho, an alleged relative to Elizabeth Board of Education Commissioner Maria Carvalho. Commissioner Carvalho has recently been censured due to ethics violations.  Further research into the Property Details confirmed the State of New Jersey DOT has at least partial ownership of the property. As a result, we came upon The Portuguese American Citizenship Project (The Project). The Project is said to be "A non-partisan initiative to promote citizenship and civic involvement" and is dated April 8, 2008. Yet, when one sees PISC to be openly supporting certain political candidates, non-partisanship goes out the window. Due to the results, charts, and graphs in the report, it's clear to see the Portuguese have been tracking their Voters in comparison to the rest of Elizabeth Voters. It then becomes so abundantly clear that the Portuguese have been a controlling faction in this City through controlling the vote. Because we were so intrigued by what we were finding, we continued to read and connect dots. We learned "The club's former owner, Carlos Pinho, admitted in federal court this week {June 18, 2009} to stealing more than $2.5 million in a Ponzi scheme, where he scammed mostly middle and working-class club members." We then found that Commissioner Maria Carvalho's husband, Carlos Carvalho is a former president. Carlos Carvalho also serves as the Superintendent of the City of Elizabeth's Department of Public Works. This article just begins to scratch the surface. The ties between this Club, it's members, and various branches of local and state government agencies is certainly questionable. Looking at the pictures below, one can see this club has been surrounded in deception and fraud since 1988! What are your thoughts?

Read the full article

[mikew0321-blog]

Portuguese Instructive Social Club: Tax Fraud? | Elizabeth, NJ

Portuguese Instructive Social Club: The Portuguese Instructive Social Club (PISC) is known to be a respectable organization by many. But, how respectable is it really? I know I'm going to upset a LOT of people with this article and that isn't my intent, but it's something people need to know. The following pictures were sent to me by another concerned Resident and very close friend:

 Being the founder of a nonprofit, I'm well aware that nonprofit organizations aren't allowed to meddle in politics. Consequently, they risk losing their IRS Tax Exempt status as a result.  We began to research things a bit and were able to confirm this organization lost its tax exempt status on May 15, 2016. We learned it was due to: "Automatic Revocation" for "failure to file a Form 990-series return or notice for three consecutive years." (See picture below)

  A little more online digging led to the following links/information: Portuguese Instructive Social Club GuidesStar Profile: "This organization has not appeared on the IRS Business Master File in a number of months. It may have merged with another organization or ceased operations.   This organization's exempt status was automatically revoked by the IRS for failure to file a Form 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, or 990-PF for 3 consecutive years. Further investigation and due diligence are warranted.   This organization is not registered with the IRS."   CitizenAudit.org Shows Latest Tax Filing Date of 12/2012, w/Over $2.2M in Assets   Quick Facts: Ein: 226017565 Date Established: 1979/10 Deductibility Status: Contributions are not deductible Revenue: $163,188 as of 2012/12 Income: $557,750 as of 2012/12 Assets: $2,208,319 as of 2012/12 Accounting Year End: 2012/12 Latest Tax Filing (date): 2012/12 Classification: Nonprofit type: 501(c)(07) Pleasure, Recreational, or Social Club Organization Type: Corporation Foundation Description: All organizations except 501(c)(3) Activities: Other social activities Sports, Athletic Recreational and Social Activities Is The Portuguese Instructive Social Club Under Another Name?   Seeming like they could be operating under another name, I performed the following Google Search. The search revealed current information, ultimately negating that possibility. www.ClubPortuguese.com PISCNJ On Facebook  PISC Listing on GoElizabethNJ.com  At this point, it's fairly safe to say that "PISC" or "Portuguese Instructive (and) Social Club" is still the operational name. Since we wanted to know more about the organization, we continued our research. While I was reading what I found, my "partner in crime" also found the deed, which revealed some rather noteworthy details. (See pictures below)

A quick look at the first page of the title will show that the Portuguese Instructive Social Club was purchased by the State of New Jersey's Department of Transportation (NJ DOT) on October 28, 2002. Another look at the last page of the document and you will see the Notary was a Mary Carvalho, an alleged relative to Elizabeth Board of Education Commissioner Maria Carvalho. Commissioner Carvalho has recently been censured due to ethics violations.  Further research into the Property Details confirmed the State of New Jersey DOT has at least partial ownership of the property. As a result, we came upon The Portuguese American Citizenship Project (The Project). The Project is said to be "A non-partisan initiative to promote citizenship and civic involvement" and is dated April 8, 2008. Yet, when one sees PISC to be openly supporting certain political candidates, non-partisanship goes out the window. Due to the results, charts, and graphs in the report, it's clear to see the Portuguese have been tracking their Voters in comparison to the rest of Elizabeth Voters. It then becomes so abundantly clear that the Portuguese have been a controlling faction in this City through controlling the vote. Because we were so intrigued by what we were finding, we continued to read and connect dots. We learned "The club's former owner, Carlos Pinho, admitted in federal court this week {June 18, 2009} to stealing more than $2.5 million in a Ponzi scheme, where he scammed mostly middle and working-class club members." We then found that Commissioner Maria Carvalho's husband, Carlos Carvalho is a former president. Carlos Carvalho also serves as the Superintendent of the City of Elizabeth's Department of Public Works. This article just begins to scratch the surface. The ties between this Club, it's members, and various branches of local and state government agencies is certainly questionable. Looking at the pictures below, one can see this club has been surrounded in deception and fraud since 1988! What are your thoughts?

Read the full article

[mikew0321-blog]

Portuguese Instructive Social Club: Tax Fraud? | Elizabeth, NJ

Portuguese Instructive Social Club: I know I'm going to upset a LOT of people with this article and that isn't my intent, but it's something people need to know.  The following pictures were sent to me by another concerned Resident and very close friend:

 Being the founder of a nonprofit, I'm well aware that nonprofit organizations aren't allowed to meddle in politics. Consequently, they risk losing their IRS Tax Exempt status as a result.  We began to research things a bit and were able to confirm this organization lost its tax exempt status on May 15, 2016. We learned it was due to: "Automatic Revocation" for "failure to file a Form 990-series return or notice for three consecutive years." (See picture below)

  A little more online digging led to the following links/information: GuidesStar Profile for PISC: "This organization has not appeared on the IRS Business Master File in a number of months. It may have merged with another organization or ceased operations.   This organization's exempt status was automatically revoked by the IRS for failure to file a Form 990, 990-EZ, 990-N, or 990-PF for 3 consecutive years. Further investigation and due diligence are warranted.   This organization is not registered with the IRS."   CitizenAudit.org Shows Latest Tax Filing Date of 12/2012, w/Over $2.2M in Assets   Quick Facts: Ein: 226017565 Date Established: 1979/10 Deductibility Status: Contributions are not deductible Revenue: $163,188 as of 2012/12 Income: $557,750 as of 2012/12 Assets: $2,208,319 as of 2012/12 Accounting Year End: 2012/12 Latest Tax Filing (date): 2012/12 Classification: Nonprofit type: 501(c)(07) Pleasure, Recreational, or Social Club Organization Type: Corporation Foundation Description: All organizations except 501(c)(3) Activities: Other social activities Sports, Athletic Recreational and Social Activities Another Name?   Seeming like they could be operating under another name, I performed the following Google Search. The search revealed current information, ultimately negating that possibility. www.ClubPortuguese.com PISCNJ On Facebook  PISC Listing on GoElizabethNJ.com  At this point, it's fairly safe to say that "PISC" or "Portuguese Instructive (and) Social Club" is still the operational name. Since we wanted to know more about the organization, we continued our research. While I was reading what I found, my "partner in crime" also found the deed, which revealed some rather noteworthy details. (See pictures below)

A quick look at the first page of the title will show that the Portuguese Instructive Social Club was purchased by the State of New Jersey's Department of Transportation (NJ DOT) on October 28, 2002. Another look at the last page of the document and you will see the Notary was a Mary Carvalho, an alleged relative to Elizabeth Board of Education Commissioner Maria Carvalho. Commissioner Carvalho has recently been censured due to ethics violations.  Further research into the Property Details confirmed the State of New Jersey DOT has at least partial ownership of the property. As a result, we came upon The Portuguese American Citizenship Project (The Project). The Project is said to be "A non-partisan initiative to promote citizenship and civic involvement" and is dated April 8, 2008. Yet, when one sees PISC to be openly supporting certain political candidates, non-partisanship goes out the window. Due to the results, charts, and graphs in the report, it's clear to see the Portuguese have been tracking their Voters in comparison to the rest of Elizabeth Voters. It then becomes so abundantly clear that the Portuguese have been a controlling faction in this City through controlling the vote. Because we were so intrigued by what we were finding, we continued to read and connect dots. We learned "The club's former owner, Carlos Pinho, admitted in federal court this week {June 18, 2009} to stealing more than $2.5 million in a Ponzi scheme, where he scammed mostly middle and working-class club members." We then found that Commissioner Maria Carvalho's husband, Carlos Carvalho is a former president. Carlos Carvalho also serves as the Superintendent of the City of Elizabeth's Department of Public Works. This article just begins to scratch the surface. The ties between this Club, it's members, and various branches of local and state government agencies is certainly questionable. What are your thoughts? Read the full article

[mikew0321-blog]

Home

Welcome To MikeWard0321.com!

  The Official Home Page of Mike "King" Ward.

Hello all, Welcome to my Official Home Page. My name is Mike Ward and I reside in Elizabeth, NJ. Many of my friends know me as "King." It's a nickname I earned years ago, in my street racing days. I am 35 years young, a husband, a father, an entrepreneur, an ordained reverend, a medically retired master certified auto technician, a Medical Cannabis patient, an activist/community organizer, a proud supporter of the Constitution Party, and a hopeful Candidate in the 2018 elections. I was born at Rahway Hospital, but resided in Elizabeth at birth. I grew up in neighboring Linden, and came back to Elizabeth when I started a family of my own, around June of 2008. I reside in a family-owned home, upstairs from my 92-year-old grandmother, whom was born in the bedroom she still sleeps in today! She feels her entire life is in this house and it was everything to her parents, so she wishes to eventually pass here. My family and I are compelled to honor her wishes to the best of our ability! It's no secret to Residents that Elizabeth has many problems and no single person has all the answers. However, I believe that together, WE do! Like many Residents, I'm upset with the conditions in town. Several of my friends have suggested I run for City Council and I've decided to give it a go. In November of 2018, I intend to run for the 5th Ward Councilman's chair. I am very passionate about returning to a small and limited, Constitutional Government, as I believe corruption to be one of the most major problems we face as New Jersey Residents. From what I've seen and experienced first-hand, I believe the corruption to be what's created this state of near-lawlessness. It's enabled criminals, discouraged hard-work, expanded the entitlement system and prison-industrial-complex, increased taxes and overall debt, as well as served to further enslave The People. If elected to City Council, I promise to NEVER vote to increase a tax on The People or Businesses of Elizabeth. I also promise to NEVER vote to approve a new tax or fee, unless 2 of equal or greater value are slated to be rescinded. I promise to fight to bring more police officers to our department and bring back beat patrols. I promise to discuss new ideas to bring the community together to clean up our streets, and once again, take pride in Elizabeth. If you elect me, I promise to continue to push for accountability and transparency, and to welcome community involvement in the decision making process. I promise to be a voice for ALL Elizabeth Residents and will continue to have several ways for you to contact me at any hour of the day or night. As councilman, I promise to draft and support resolutions that better life for everyone, rather than just a select few. I promise to fight to ensure our First Responders are well-compensated, and are equipped with the best training, apparatus, and gear in their arsenals, to ensure they can effectively do their jobs without fear. I would also work diligently to expose the racism and issues with the lack of promotions unless being a part of the "well-oiled machine" currently in place. I promise to work to dismantle the discriminatory political machine controlling our government and seek criminal charges on all those who can be found to have violated their Oath of Office. I intend to expose the hidden PAC money that's been used to enable this political machine. I would also see about revisiting and redrafting the Master Plan for Elizabeth. I promise to use my street knowledge and influence to create and sponsor additional services and support for our Youth, in an effort to instill family values to get (and KEEP) them off the streets. I plan to bring forth better community-sponsored services for our homeless and chemically addicted Residents. I am also promising to fight to institute additional services for abused women and children, along with the disabled and our Senior Citizens. I will fight to control the out-of-control, virtually unregulated housing assistance problem, and work to enforce our building and occupancy codes, which causes other housing concerns, including increasingly astronomical rents. I will work with members of the community, alongside State and Federal representatives, to create real Immigration Reform that penalizes violent criminals, and provides a simple, legal way for otherwise law-abiding immigrants to be granted US Citizenship, rather than this system of deportation of hard-working, family-oriented people. And lastly, I promise to work to implement a a system of Tax Credits and discounts to Elizabeth Residents and Business Owners, encouraging them to shop and hire locally. Elizabeth is a very diverse town with MUCH more to offer its occupants than it currently does. We have much land that is currently vacant, that can be acquired for "green space" or to be used as large community gardens, run by volunteers, to adequately supply virtually ALL Elizabeth Residents with wholesome, organic fruits, vegetables, and other easily sustainable produce. I've seen just how many people can come together to help strangers in times of need. Elizabeth is in a state of crisis and is in desperate need for its Citizens to unite for something great for everyone! I have agreed to run on the Constitution Party platform because of its dedication to uphold the Constitution, which was formulated to RESTRICT government control. The Constitution Party is based on "The 3 Pillars" which are: Integrity, Liberty, and Prosperity. The Constitution Party is deeply committed to restoring Honesty, Integrity, and Accountability to all 3 branches of Government. These are things I value immensely, and are principles that have been embedded in me for many years. It's the ONLY party that I've found has stayed true to its core beliefs since its inception. It's time to break the 2-party system, which has only offered an illusion of choice for so long! I am so confident in my promises to you, that I am eager to back it up by signing a legally binding contract with the Voters, should they elect me. With that contract, I will be legally bound to Honor my promises and commitments to those whom I would be said to represent. If I were to break that contract, I would be faced with criminal and civil repercussions, as any act against the Constitution or my Constituents, could and should be deemed treasonous! If you would like to know more about me, I can be found on all forms of Social Media. Most common is Facebook. See the links below: My Facebook Profile My FB Campaign Page Follow Me On Twitter My YouTube Channel I am in the process of building multiple websites. The 1st is this one, www.MikeWard0321.com, which is intended to be used as a campaign platform, along with a common meeting place for people to get together and collaborate on new ideas that improve the overall quality of life for Residents. Another is for our newly founded non-profit, Residents That Care. In an effort to bring the public the absolute most in transparency, I would like to announce that I'm also in the planning stages of launching a new, independent, unbiased, citizen-run, Internet-based media project for New Jersey called NJ Media. I've secured the related domains for it, along with domains to support New Jersey's Freedom Radio. I'm also currently in communications with the Baltimore Guardian Angels about getting a chapter started in town. I've started a GoFundMe campaign to assist me in my efforts. If you would like to donate, Click Here to check it out! !!!!! Please give if you can. Any amount helps !!!!! Donate Now! Should you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask! I look forward to hearing from you! I can be reached via: Email Phone: (908) 838-4383 Skype: TheVapnKing Or even anonymously through to Contact Form to the right. Be sure to stop by my Live Chat to show some love! Let's Make Elizabeth (and Everywhere else, for that matter) Great Again through leading by example! My only wish is Peace and Prosperity for All. Thank you for your interest, and hopefully your support! <3

Official Vaxxed: from Cover-Up to Catastrophe Stream from Cinema Libre Studio on Vimeo. If you like what I do, please consider donating to support my efforts! Contact Me Using This Form Name or Alias (required) Your Email (required only for reply) Subject (Optional) Your Message (Optional) Phone Number (Optional) Links for Submission (Optional) Attach a File (Optional) Other Causes I Support Read the full article

[mikew0321-blog]

Videos

Videos I Recommend:

Mike Ward for City Council 2018: Elizabeth, NJ

Vaxxed - From Cover-Up To Catastrophe

Official Vaxxed: from Cover-Up to Catastrophe Stream from Cinema Libre Studio on Vimeo.

Matt Riccardi | News 12 NJ Power & Politics | www.r4nj.org #TeamRiccardi

Matt Riccardi on Go Radio 8 29 17

Elizabeth, NJ City Council Meetings

Elizabeth, New Jersey City Council: Pre-Council Meeting 09/19/17

Elizabeth City Council Meeting 9 12 17 Open Public Speaking

Elizabeth, NJ City Council Business Meeting August 22, 2017

Elizabeth, NJ City Council Agenda Setting Meeting August 1, 2017

Elizabeth, NJ City Council Pre-Council Meeting 1/3/17

Read the full article

[mikew0321-blog]

MikeWard0321.com Live Chat

Welcome To My Live Chat!

Read the full article

[mikew0321-blog]

MikeWard0321.com Live Chat

Welcome To My Live Chat!

Read the full article

[mikew0321-blog]

MikeWard0321.com Live Chat

Read the full article

[mikew0321-blog]

Home

WelcomeHello all, Welcome to my Official Home Page. My name is Mike Ward and I reside in Elizabeth, NJ. I am 35 years young, a husband, a father, an entrepreneur, an ordained reverend, a medically retired master certified auto technician, a Medical Cannabis patient, an activist/community organizer, and most recently I've become more of a political figure. I was born in Elizabeth, grew up in neighboring Linden, and came back to Elizabeth when I started a family of my own, about 9 years ago. I reside upstairs from my 92-year-old grandmother, who was born in the bedroom she still sleeps in today! Like many Residents, I'm upset with the conditions in Elizabeth. Several of my friends have suggested I run for City Council and I've decided to give it a go. Next November, I intend to run for the 5th Ward Councilman's chair. If you would like to know more about me, I can be found on all forms of Social Media. Most common is Facebook. See some of the links below: My Facebook Profile My FB Campaign Page Follow Me On Twitter My YouTube Channel I am in the process of building 2 websites. The 1st is this one, www.MikeWard0321.com, and the other is for my newly founded non-profit, Residents That Care. I have also started a GoFundMe campaign to assist me in my efforts. If you would like to donate, Click Here to check out the campaign! Please donate if you can. Any amount helps! Should you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask! I look forward to hearing from you! Let's Make Elizabeth Great Again! Thank you for your support! Read the full article

[mikew0321-blog]

Bullets Strike House in Elizabeth | rlsmedia.com

Not sure how I missed this one. This was last Wednesday. I must've been under the weather.

Police in Elizabeth are on the search for a vehicle occupied by suspects who are wanted for firing several shots in a neighborhood in Elizabeth Wednesday evening. Officers responded to several reports of shots fired that rang out in the 500 block of Jefferson Avenue before 8 p.m. where units arrived to find a house struck by multiple bullets. Police canvassed the area for victims, but they did not immediately find anyone struck by gunfire. Witnessed observed a black or dark-colored vehicle speed away from the scene after the shooting. Source: Bullets Strike House in Elizabeth | rlsmedia.com Read the full article

[mikew0321-blog]

UPDATE: Elizabeth Man Shot Dead in Union | rlsmedia.com

And another one!

A shooting that left a man dead in Union on Sunday evening has Union County authorities continuing to investigate. Family members identified the victim Jose Yampier Diago, 19, of Elizabeth and said Diago began to associate with a "bad crowd." Residents in the neighborhood said that a vehicle pulled up in the 700 block of Gates Terrace and fired multiple times then saw Diago unconscious and unresponsive laying on the ground. Source: UPDATE: Elizabeth Man Shot Dead in Union | rlsmedia.com Read the full article

[mikew0321-blog]

Thinking Out Loud

Thinking Out Loud

I've been sitting here thinking today a great deal about where I come from. Growing up hard and quick, it was fun when I was coming up. I was born in 82, was part of the Class of 2000, and was the epitome of what it was to be a "Millennial." Things aren't the same and I miss the way times were. I grew up with a generation that had the best of electronics and interactive toys, right on the cusp of carbureted vs fuel injected engines. Some of the greatest technological advances have been made by my generation. We've bridged the World in ways many before could never fathom! At the same time, we've grown too trusting that our needs will just be met, without taking the proper initiatives to ensure their sustainability. We're not the hard workers and over achievers that the Baby Boomers were. I like to think that I grew up in a time and family, where I was provided a very good education. Not just in a scholastic sense, but an all-encompassing, high-quality upbringing. I grew up in a middle class family, in a working class, well-diversified community.  My dad was a longshoreman for 42 years when he retired. My mom was a housewife who tended to my every need. We had our strengths and our weaknesses, as does any family. I was brought up with a strong sense of pride for self and love for my country. I've always been inspired by Patriots and those who were Champions of The People. Since I was a young child, I dreamed of serving my Country. I've always felt nothing is more Honorable than to be trusted by many to be their voice and to stand for their beliefs. Different things throughout my life have made me question things I'd been told or taught to believe. That's ultimately led me to learn there are other ways of doing things than what the majority accept to be "the right way." One of the first things that taught me that was the development of Juvenile Diabetes at 12 years old. At that time, I dreamed of joining the Navy, going to Annapolis, earning my wings as a fighter pilot, and using the military to become a combat surgeon. I believed that to be the best way I could best serve my country. Diabetes instantly stripped that from me. For 7 years, the only things I had cared to learn, were that in the scientific and mathematical realms. I would read anything and everything I could find on the human body, flight, war, arms, etc. From 5 to roughly 8-years-old, I spent my spare time at night reading the Encyclopedia Britannica from cover to cover. And I mean all 32 volumes! From there, I went to the Linden East Branch Library. At 10, I was left there for hours on weekends, having direct access to the "Resource Room." It was my information gateway! Anything I wanted to know, I knew how to find the answers! When I was diagnosed with diabetes, I felt like everything I had aspired to become, was no longer attainable and my life was an utter waste. I still wanted to make something of myself, but didn't know what I wanted to do. Whatever it was, simply had to be done FAST! I felt as though a clock had been placed on my life and I had to live it before it was gone. Then, I started thinking it was gone before it had even started. Around 13-years-old, I began an involvement with drugs. I was doing things that I thought would speed my death and give me the life I thought I wanted. At this point, I didn't care about much, but I had a strong interest in cars and racing. I suppose that's the next fastest thing to flying, which I knew the FAA would never clear me to do. At least not professionally. Before diabetes, after my 12th birthday, I was hired in a local bike store as a mechanic. I eventually got into small engine repair, which progressed into auto mechanics when I was in high school. When I was a freshman, I took a test for vocational school. As a sophomore, we were allowed to choose 4 different vocational areas. I chose Auto Mechanics, Auto Tech 1, Auto Tech 2, and Auto Tech 3, whereas others had chosen Auto Mechanics, Welding, Construction Trades, and maybe Culinary, or Auto Body. I was given a placement test, which was the same test administered to graduating seniors. As a freshman, not having ever taken an auto course, I scored higher than any of their seniors had in many previous years. They instantly accepted me with open arms, into their Automotive Technology program as an incoming sophomore. Something that was exclusively reserved for juniors. I was beyond honored and they were grateful to have me! I still knew education was important, but drugs and my own skewed thought processes had corrupted me a bit. Fortunately, I was able to get clean before I was 15, and excelled in my career. I went on to represent my school in a state-wide competition. At first I allegedly didn't place, but a week or so later, my instructor got a call saying I had been tied for 2nd and they were holding a special awards ceremony for the official winners. I was always told it was a political thing, but I was happy to know I did as well as I had. It was one of the greatest honors of my life to that point. By March of my junior year, I had my license and started driving. I was heavy into NHRA drag racing, and I basically lived my life a quarter-mile at a time. My speeds were idle and wide open throttle! You lift, you lose! Drive it 'til the wheels fall off and keep pushin' til she quits! And I did! From 17-23 were probably the BEST. YEARS. OF. MY. LIFE! I was on top of my scene. By 18 I was Master ASE certified and had gone to college on a scholarship. I withdrew passing to come back to NJ and make money in my career, after testing out of several courses without taking them. I felt it was a waste and I could do better without it. Any additional training I would need, was provided by my employer! While I worked as a tech in garages, then GM dealerships, I grew stronger into racing. My friends in my racing circuit became my family. There was a camaraderie like you'd never believe. We were street racers mostly, so we lived our lives on a dangerous edge. Many friends and acquaintances are no longer with us due to mishaps on the road. Others got involved in other parts of the street life and were never able to recover. However, we all had our backs. We policed ourselves and followed our own moral codes. We had a respect that's almost impossible for me to find today. Granted, times were a bit different. But, I still talk to some of my old group here and there. They're still doing the same things. I look back and I miss it so much, but my situation has changed and I've learned to accept it. I would just like to find that solidarity again. We used to have each others backs no matter what! It didn't matter the time of day or what needed to be done, we showed up by carloads and didn't leave until it was done! We loved what we did and did it as much as we could. Today, I no longer hang out with my car crew. I'm involved in politics and trying to effect positive change in my community. I seek to unite people and aspire to reach a level of greater good for everyone around me. And it's one of the most difficult feats I've ever undertaken. But, if you haven't already been able to tell, I LOVE a challenge and I DO NOT QUIT!  I just wish I could figure out what it takes to unite people the way I'm used to people being united. Then, I have to sit back and think that The Revolutionary War was won by 3% of the population fighting! I propose nothing half as drastic as that, but revolutionary by all means! Whether you support me or not remains entirely on you. Just know that I'm doing what I do, for you too! I don't have all the answers. Nor do I ever claim to. I simply have an open mind and the willingness to hear all sides out, then use logic to come to sensible resolutions in a mature fashion. I only encourage others to join me in my latest endeavor. #MEGA Make Elizabeth Great Again Click here to return to my Home Page Visit My Blog Click Here to Support My Efforts Click to Post

[mikew0321-blog]

Seeking A Few Able-Bodies For A Few Hours Of Work

Hello Friends, As many know, my health isn't the best and hours of repeated bending tends to agitate my stomach and causes the nausea and vomiting to flare up. Because of this, it's made it very difficult for me to get my front yard in order. Years ago, when I was around my car family, it didn't matter what the job was. If one of us needed help, 10 or more where there to pitch right in. Now that I associate with different circles and am involved in different things, I don't have the same bonds I once had with associates and acquaintances. I've always been the type of person that would rather die struggling, than ask for help and possibly inconvenience someone else. But, the fact of the matter is, I'm in over my head at this point. I'm usually very critical of properties that are disorderly. At this point in my life, I have no room to criticize anyone else, when my own home is the biggest eyesore on the block! You can tell I've made several attempts at cleaning it up, but I get out there for a few hours, work until I can't, then can't get back out there for a week or 2. By that time, everything I got to, is overgrown again, and it just keeps compounding. I've already uprooted a bunch of hedges and started leveling the area nearest the sidewalk. I also uprooted some shrubs and filled the holes in. I still have some roots to cut and dig up, I would like to lay some block, some weed barrier, and a bunch of mulch, to clean it up and give it a fresh look. I figure 3-4 guys working for a few hours, should bang it right out! I just can't do it alone anymore. I can't offer much, but I can promise you'll be well-fed! Please let me know if you can help me out! Click to Post

[mikew0321-blog]

Seeking A Few Able-Bodies For A Few Hours Of Work

Hello Friends, As many know, my health isn't the best and hours of repeated bending tends to agitate my stomach and causes the nausea and vomiting to flare up. Because of this, it's made it very difficult for me to get my front yard in order. Years ago, when I was around my car family, it didn't matter what the job was. If one of us needed help, 10 or more where there to pitch right in. Now that I associate with different circles and am involved in different things, I don't have the same bonds I once had with associates and acquaintances. I've always been the type of person that would rather die struggling, than ask for help and possibly inconvenience someone else. But, the fact of the matter is, I'm in over my head at this point. I'm usually very critical of properties that are disorderly. At this point in my life, I have no room to criticize anyone else, when my own home is the biggest eyesore on the block! You can tell I've made several attempts at cleaning it up, but I get out there for a few hours, work until I can't, then can't get back out there for a week or 2. By that time, everything I got to, is overgrown again, and it just keeps compounding. I've already uprooted a bunch of hedges and started leveling the area nearest the sidewalk. I also uprooted some shrubs and filled the holes in. I still have some roots to cut and dig up, I would like to lay some block, some weed barrier, and a bunch of mulch, to clean it up and give it a fresh look. I figure 3-4 guys working for a few hours, should bang it right out! I just can't do it alone anymore. I can't offer much, but I can promise you'll be well-fed! Please let me know if you can help me out! Click to Post

[mikew0321-blog]

Thinking Out Loud

Thinking Out Loud

I've been sitting here thinking today a great deal about where I come from. Growing up hard and quick, it was fun when I was coming up. I was born in 82, was part of the Class of 2000, and was the epitome of what it was to be a "Millennial." Things aren't the same and I miss the way times were. I grew up with a generation that had the best of electronics and interactive toys, right on the cusp of carbureted vs fuel injected engines. Some of the greatest technological advances have been made by my generation. We've bridged the World in ways many before could never fathom! At the same time, we've grown too trusting that our needs will just be met, without taking the proper initiatives to ensure their sustainability. We're not the hard workers and over achievers that the Baby Boomers were. I like to think that I grew up in a time and family, where I was provided a very good education. Not just in a scholastic sense, but an all-encompassing, high-quality upbringing. I grew up in a middle class family, in a working class, well-diversified community.  My dad was a longshoreman for 42 years when he retired. My mom was a housewife who tended to my every need. We had our strengths and our weaknesses, as does any family. I was brought up with a strong sense of pride for self and love for my country. I've always been inspired by Patriots and those who were Champions of The People. Since I was a young child, I dreamed of serving my Country. I've always felt nothing is more Honorable than to be trusted by many to be their voice and to stand for their beliefs. Different things throughout my life have made me question things I'd been told or taught to believe. That's ultimately led me to learn there are other ways of doing things than what the majority accept to be "the right way." One of the first things that taught me that was the development of Juvenile Diabetes at 12 years old. At that time, I dreamed of joining the Navy, going to Annapolis, earning my wings as a fighter pilot, and using the military to become a combat surgeon. I believed that to be the best way I could best serve my country. Diabetes instantly stripped that from me. For 7 years, the only things I had cared to learn, were that in the scientific and mathematical realms. I would read anything and everything I could find on the human body, flight, war, arms, etc. From 5 to roughly 8-years-old, I spent my spare time at night reading the Encyclopedia Britannica from cover to cover. And I mean all 32 volumes! From there, I went to the Linden East Branch Library. At 10, I was left there for hours on weekends, having direct access to the "Resource Room." It was my information gateway! Anything I wanted to know, I knew how to find the answers! When I was diagnosed with diabetes, I felt like everything I had aspired to become, was no longer attainable and my life was an utter waste. I still wanted to make something of myself, but didn't know what I wanted to do. Whatever it was, simply had to be done FAST! I felt as though a clock had been placed on my life and I had to live it before it was gone. Then, I started thinking it was gone before it had even started. Around 13-years-old, I began an involvement with drugs. I was doing things that I thought would speed my death and give me the life I thought I wanted. At this point, I didn't care about much, but I had a strong interest in cars and racing. I suppose that's the next fastest thing to flying, which I knew the FAA would never clear me to do. At least not professionally. Before diabetes, after my 12th birthday, I was hired in a local bike store as a mechanic. I eventually got into small engine repair, which progressed into auto mechanics when I was in high school. When I was a freshman, I took a test for vocational school. As a sophomore, we were allowed to choose 4 different vocational areas. I chose Auto Mechanics, Auto Tech 1, Auto Tech 2, and Auto Tech 3, whereas others had chosen Auto Mechanics, Welding, Construction Trades, and maybe Culinary, or Auto Body. I was given a placement test, which was the same test administered to graduating seniors. As a freshman, not having ever taken an auto course, I scored higher than any of their seniors had in many previous years. They instantly accepted me with open arms, into their Automotive Technology program as an incoming sophomore. Something that was exclusively reserved for juniors. I was beyond honored and they were grateful to have me! I still knew education was important, but drugs and my own skewed thought processes had corrupted me a bit. Fortunately, I was able to get clean before I was 15, and excelled in my career. I went on to represent my school in a state-wide competition. At first I allegedly didn't place, but a week or so later, my instructor got a call saying I had been tied for 2nd and they were holding a special awards ceremony for the official winners. I was always told it was a political thing, but I was happy to know I did as well as I had. It was one of the greatest honors of my life to that point. By March of my junior year, I had my license and started driving. I was heavy into NHRA drag racing, and I basically lived my life a quarter-mile at a time. My speeds were idle and wide open throttle! You lift, you lose! Drive it 'til the wheels fall off and keep pushin' til she quits! And I did! From 17-23 were probably the BEST. YEARS. OF. MY. LIFE! I was on top of my scene. By 18 I was Master ASE certified and had gone to college on a scholarship. I withdrew passing to come back to NJ and make money in my career, after testing out of several courses without taking them. I felt it was a waste and I could do better without it. Any additional training I would need, was provided by my employer! While I worked as a tech in garages, then GM dealerships, I grew stronger into racing. My friends in my racing circuit became my family. There was a camaraderie like you'd never believe. We were street racers mostly, so we lived our lives on a dangerous edge. Many friends and acquaintances are no longer with us due to mishaps on the road. Others got involved in other parts of the street life and were never able to recover. However, we all had our backs. We policed ourselves and followed our own moral codes. We had a respect that's almost impossible for me to find today. Granted, times were a bit different. But, I still talk to some of my old group here and there. They're still doing the same things. I look back and I miss it so much, but my situation has changed and I've learned to accept it. I would just like to find that solidarity again. We used to have each others backs no matter what! It didn't matter the time of day or what needed to be done, we showed up by carloads and didn't leave until it was done! We loved what we did and did it as much as we could. Today, I no longer hang out with my car crew. I'm involved in politics and trying to effect positive change in my community. I seek to unite people and aspire to reach a level of greater good for everyone around me. And it's one of the most difficult feats I've ever undertaken. But, if you haven't already been able to tell, I LOVE a challenge and I DO NOT QUIT!  I just wish I could figure out what it takes to unite people the way I'm used to people being united. Then, I have to sit back and think that The Revolutionary War was won by 3% of the population fighting! I propose nothing half as drastic as that, but revolutionary by all means! Whether you support me or not remains entirely on you. Just know that I'm doing what I do, for you too! I don't have all the answers. Nor do I ever claim to. I simply have an open mind and the willingness to hear all sides out, then use logic to come to sensible resolutions in a mature fashion. I only encourage others to join me in my latest endeavor. #MEGA Make Elizabeth Great Again Click here to return to my Home Page Visit My Blog Click Here to Support My Efforts Click to Post

[mikew0321-blog]

Warning: Threat Is Still REAL!

Warning: The Threat Is Still Real

Warning: The Threat Is Still Real When  I got back from getting Brian from the bus today, we decided to take a quick ride to a corner store. I pulled up at a lil spot I go to just about every day, on the corner of Smith St. and East. Jersey and noticed people gathered on the side of a vehicle. They were waiting for EMS. There was an occupant in the vehicle that had overdosed and was struggling to breath. Fortunately, for the 40-something year old woman, the Elizabeth Fire Department was on-scene in 3-5 minutes and immediately administered Narcan.  I was thankful to see her respirations had returned to normal within a minute or 2 and she was just unconscious from the narcotic she consumed. I pray this wakes her up, but experience tells me it will probably happen again. Ladies and gentlemen, the Heroin pandemic is something that's spread through ALL of our society today. It's the reason we're in the Middle East and our CIA is who's responsible for flooding the streets of America. I spoke with a worker at this store, as I do most days. Just earlier this AM, we were speaking on how WE need to clean this mess up! When it comes to the topic of addiction, it's something I have vast personal experience in. I'm proud to be fortunate enough to say that I was blessed with the ability to find an escape that seems impossible for most. I've lost many friends to jails and death, because of the money or high from drugs. It's not something I'm proud of, but gives you a sense of where I've been. Many addicts fall into active addiction because they simply lose hope. Hope is something that can't be given. It has to be found within. In order for addicts to find that hope, they need solid resources and to be shown the desire to change their ways. For many years, I've been a medical Cannabis patient. Its proven efficacy is unmatched, and that opinion is based solely on things I've personally seen and experienced. Cannabis allowed me to go from constant hospital admissions and being unable to do anything for myself for weeks on end, due to Diabetic Gastroparesis, to living a somewhat healthy and productive life, only hospitalized a few times per year, for a few days each bout. As I've switched my regimen from smoking Cannabis, to consuming it orally, through infusing Coconut Oil, I've found my condition to stabilize even further! To double down on that statement, I know for a fact, that concentrated Cannabis Oil cures virtually ALL debilitating diseases. Which is why Big Pharma is so against is and wants to severely hamper it's access and production! I know that circumstances are different for everyone, but I also know that Cannabis is being used successfully in many other countries right now to combat the effects of opiate/opioid addiction. It minimizes the withdrawal symptoms and eases pain of all sorts. The best part of all is: THERE ARE NO KNOWN SIDE EFFECTS WHEN USED RESPONSIBLY! I don't have every answer, but I do know that this is proving to be the answer to one of the biggest downfalls we face today. As long as we continue to have debates and not use "common sense," we will continue to allow this problem to grow to an uncontrollable point. It's not long before we're there. If someone you know is caught in the grips of a progressive, potentially deadly addiction, I urge you to find them help. There are many compassionate groups that I know of. We are responsible for each others lives, regardless of what we may believe. We also have the power to change the World around us. Will you join me in my efforts? If you need help, please reach out! All communications to this website are secure and confidential! Rev. Mike Ward - Residents That Care Residents That Care Click here to visit my blog Click here to return to my Home Page If you like what I'm doing, Click Here To Support My Efforts Click to Post

[mikew0321-blog]

FAKE HURRICANE MARIA SOLD FOR DEPOPULATION IN PR?

  Source: YouTube Some parts of me want to say that this is completely made up, but there's too much truth in it for me to say that. I can't say this is absolutely true. But, knowing what I do know to be absolute fact, it does seem like it could be the very case. If so, it's rather sad, but all we have to do is look back to 9-11-01 to remember just how far our government will go in order to get what it wants. Click here to support my efforts Click here to return to my Home Page Click to Post