Jennifer Jones' Signatures challenged in LD5 race

Jennifer Jones' campaign scooter,
Quartzsite, AZ  - Copyright Desert Messenger 2014

Quartzsite, AZ 

UPDATE: Jennifer Jones posted on her Facebook page: 

June 21, 2016 "Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Randall Warner found in favor of Legislative District 5 Republican candidate for the Arizona House of Representatives Jennifer Jones. The nominating petition signature challenge was filed by a rival candidate and political newcomer Paul Mosley. Both parties represented themselves in court.

"Mosley had asked the Court to disqualify numerous signatures on Jones' nominating petitions for a variety of reasons, attempting to render her ineligible. After the signatures in question were checked by the Recorders Offices in La Paz and Mohave Counties, the official certified reports had determined that Jones had 43 signatures more than the minimum required.

"Mosley refused to accept the finding of fact and declined the judges offer to drop the case, which then proceeded immediately to trial. He argued that signatures should be disqualified for technical deficiencies such as using a zip code instead of writing the city, or using a post office box address. Jones countered with the applicable election statute and a 2004 Arizona Supreme Court ruling which held that purely technical departures from the form of the nominating petitions will not outweigh the voter's right to select a nominee. After a short recess Judge Warner ruled that Jones had submitted more than enough valid signatures to be on the August 30th primary election ballot and dismissed Mosley's claim.

"On her way out of the courtroom, Jones told Mosley, “I don't know if your mother ever spanked you Paul, but I just did.”

(https://www.facebook.com/The-Desert-Freedom-Press-195686447195051/?fref=ts)

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On June 15, 2016, Stephen Paul Mosley of Lake Havasu City filed formal legal action against Mrs. Jennifer Jones, a Republican candidate for Arizona Legislative District 5 (LD5). Mosley contends that Jones, of Quartzsite, failed to meet candidacy requirements. LD5 covers all of La Paz County and most of Mohave County. 
In order for a signature to count, a person who signs a petition must be a qualified elector, live in the district of the office the candidate is running for and must belong to the same political party as the candidate. Since there are only two seats open for LD5, a person is allowed to sign only two petitions.
Jones' notified her supporters on her campaign Facebook page today with the following statement:
Mosley's 22 page complaint can be read in its entirety at:

According to Mosley's complaint, "Jones submitted 64 petition sheets with 599 signatures. However all of the signatures on petitions 4 and 47 are invalid because Jones failed to complete the affidavits on the backs of the petitions as required by statute."

Mosley alleges in his complaint; "Furthermore, out of the 599 signatures that Jones submitted, 204 are invalid because the signer was not legally eligible to sign the petition sheet, the signer's name is illegible, or the signer failed to provide the information required by statute. 483 signatures are required to be submitted for an individual to have his or her name printed on the primary election ballot on August 30."

Mosley alleges that after removing alleged invalid signatures, Jones only has 395 valid signatures, short of the 483 required to have one's name printed on the ballot.

Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Randall H. Warner has scheduled the complaint for expedited hearing at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday,  June 21. 

"Apparently my opponents do not believe they can beat me in a fair election. The Mormon stock trader from Lake Havasu City, Paul Mosley, has filed a court challenge to my nominating signatures. The county recorders from Mohave and La Paz will be preparing a report on the signatures he challenged but over a hundred will have to be invalidated to remove me from the ballot. Unfortunately for my opponents, I am a seasoned pro se litigant so Mosley will need to hire an attorney but I will not."

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-Z6UlGYZmGlMkZaU251ZWs0SHc/view?ts=57637cd7

Quartzsite Candidate flies flag upside down on Federal Lands

Quartzsite, AZ - The photo to the left was taken on Federal BLM (Bureau of Land Management) lands, located at the La Posa Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA) just south of Quartzsite, Arizona.

Jennifer “Jade” Jones, a candidate for Quartzsite town council and self proclaimed Public Persona, along with her husband John “Jack” Jones have been camping at that site in the LTVA since early fall. Mrs. Jones became famous during the summer when the video of her arrest at the June 28th council meeting went “viral” on the Internet.

United States Code Title 4 Chapter 1 §8. Respect for Flag states “The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property.”

The International Code of Signals 2005 Edition, Appendix 1, contains no reference to an upside down national flag as a possible distress signal. However, a German Merchant Captain once explained , “If a crew abandons a ship in distress to save their life, the last thing to do (if they have time to do so) is to turn the flag upside down. This means that they give up any right on the vessel or cargo and anybody who manages to rescue the ship afterwards could keep it.” In court, a company would lose claim of property on an abandoned ship, but if the flag was upright it would indicate that the crew did not leave in distress, and the company would have a stronger case in court to claim the right on the vessel.

Local veterans and their wives interviewed for this story consider the act of flying the flag upside down to be very disrespectful, but a right of expression that they fought for, and many died for.

While the federal government does not prohibit hanging the U.S. flag upside down, many believe the only acceptable reason to hang the flag upside down is in cases of dire distress. However, political activists are taking to flying the upside down flag as an expression of their frustration over government issues. Activists are using the upside down flag as a “symbol of a nation in distress”.

Desert Messenger reached out to Mrs. Jones for comment. Her reply was simply, “Don’t you have any real news to report?”

However, Jones, publisher of The Desert Freedom Press, dedicated almost a half page to her editorial, focusing solely on the upside down flag flying at her campsite. She suggests that her 5 "false" arrests in 13 months, coupled with other public comments and events, would lead a reasonable person to conclude her life and property are in "extreme danger in a country whose leaders have chosen to suspend provisions of the very document that defines us as a nation." She encourages "everyone across the country to do so as well".

Snowbirds from Canada, expressed their shock, as they considered Jones' actions to be "disrespect of a nation's flag". One veteran's widow stated, "It's a slap in the face to those who fought for our country."

[Editor’s note: This article was originally slated for the front page of the January 4, 2012 issue. Out of respect for the family of Council Member Bob Kelley, whose death on December 31, 2011 became front page news, the decision was made to move the story to page 7. Kelley was a proud veteran with very strong convictions for the flag and his country.]

Quartzsite Town Attorney Martin Brannan assigns cases to special prosecutor

Quartzsite, Arizona - In a press release issued this afternoon, Quartzsite Town Attorney, Martin Brannan announced cases involving five Quartzsite residents have been assigned to a special prosecutor.

The Press Release states:

"Despite reports to the contrary, the so-called Quartzsite Bagger is not the Quartzsite Town Attorney or any other elected or appointed officer of the Town of Quartzsite. The opinions expressed on http://quartzsitebagger.wordpress.com do not represent the views of any elected or appointed officer of the Town of Quartzsite. No elected or appointed officer of the Town of Quartzsite profits in any way from the sale of merchandise by Cafe Press related to the “Quartzsite Bagger” blog.

"Notwithstanding this reality, in order for the Town Attorney and other town officers to concentrate on the business of the town without the distraction this “controversy” appears to have been designed to create, the cases involving self-styled activists Ed Foster, Jennifer Jones, Michael Roth, Dana Stadler and Doug Gilford are being assigned to a special prosecutor."

Quartzsite Town Attorney answers Jennifer Jones' accusations

Just released this afternoon, Quartzsite Town Attorney

Martin Brannan gets up close and personal.

Press Release

Dec. 22, 2011

Martin Brannan
Quartzsite Town Attorney
PO Box 2812
Quartzsite, AZ 85346-2812

I was just notified by a reporter from KSWT television in Yuma that Jennifer Jones has issued a “press”
release making generally silly accusations about her request that I be investigated by the FBI and the
Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) for threatening her and others. Assuming that the FBI and
DPS even find grounds to believe that there is criminal conduct requiring and investigation, which I
highly doubt, I know that I have engaged in no illegal conduct. There is one accusation that Ms. Jones
made which I do want to address, however, because I believe it is of great importance.

Ms. Jones alleged to the KSWT reporter that I am mentally unbalanced. I want to address this accusation
in the hopes that it will help others who are stigmatized by such outrageous allegations.

I am a veteran of the first gulf war (1990-1991). I received an Air Medal for my role in piloting medium
lift helicopters during combat operations in support of the 18th Airborne Corps. Shortly after returning
from the conflict, I began having migraine headaches and experiencing difficulties which fall under the
diagnostic heading of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I receive services from the Veteran’s
administration and have a service-connected disability for, along with several physical ailments, PTSD. I
continue to suffer from occasional depression, anxiety and troubled sleep. I take medication for my
condition which makes dealing with this disorder easier, but I do have symptoms and suffer from a
condition designated by mental health professionals as a mental illness.

I admit this freely and without reservation because, like thousands of other Americans who have served
this country against an armed enemy, I am not ashamed of the scars I earned ensuring that people like
Jennifer Jones have the freedoms that Americans enjoy. While Ms. Jones uses her freedom of speech to
ridicule people who bear the mental scars of combat like myself and Council Member Joe Winslow, she
rails against anyone who dares to exercise their free-speech rights to ridicule her and her “service” to her
fellow human beings.

The last US Combat troops have finally left Iraq and many more are still serving in Afghanistan. Some
of them will soon be returning to the United States and to civilian life. Some of them may return to this
community. All of them will have been impacted by their combat service. Some of them, like me, will
have a service-connected disability as a result of their service. All of them, like me, will nevertheless be
capable of really serving their communities both in spite of and, more importantly, because of the
personal price they paid to secure your freedoms.

How you treat these brave men and women who suffer scars that you cannot see will be up to you. You
can honor their service and their sacrifice and help them to adjust to civilian life.

You can also ridicule them and make scurrilous claims that they are mentally unstable like Ms. Jones
does. Like Ms. Jones you can even claim that you are a “patriot” in doing so. That, too is your right; a
right that these brave men and women and Joe Winslow and I all sacrificed a part of their own wellbeing
to ensure.

Quartzsite's Chalk the Police group

A small group gathered at La Paz County Justice Court today to express their freedom of speech rights. Under a dozen people showed up for the National Chalk the Police Day in Quartzsite. Quartzsite Police Department officers were waiting for them at Town Hall. As Contributing Photographer, Starr, and I arrived on the scene, this was the welcome gesture of free speech given.

(People in the photo were not chalking on the ground, but rather on black poster boards). Chalking was performed, as shown on Internet videos, by Michael Roth and Dana Stadler, who were also arrested last week.

The group was organized on Facebook by Kelly James, who stated, "I want to observe National Chalking Day in Qtown at the Police Department / Town Hall in protest of terminations of the Qtown 8"

videos: http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/sincerelykellyjames

info: http://www.copblock.org/chalkthepolice/

Jose Lizarraga still Quartzsite Mayor

Quartzsite, AZ-  PRESS RELEASE from Town of Quartzsite, Sept. 30, 2011

  "The La Paz County Superior Court affirmed yesterday that Jose Lizarraga is the mayor of Quartzsite.  The ruling came after failed mayoral candidate Jennifer Harris Jones filed a contest of the election challenging Lizarraga’s qualifications to be mayor.

   "The Court found that none of Jones’ allegations were founded and denied every request Jones made for relief.  Lizarraga, who had refrained from presiding over the Common Council during the pendency of Jones’ failed suit, has resumed his rightful role and the popularly elected Mayor of the Town of Quartzsite having ousted Ed Foster as a result of the August 30, 2011 recall election.

 "The Town anticipates that Jones, who had publicly been declaring victory in spite of having failed to prove any of her allegations or obtain any of the relief that she was seeking and who had falsely claimed that the Town’s Application to Intervene had been denied, will not accept the ruling of the Superior Court and will either appeal the Superior Court’s order or bring a new suit in light of yesterday’s ruling.  The Town also anticipates that Jones will meet with the same lack of success in any future challenge to Lizarraga’s election."

case no. CV201100117

Jennifer Jones, former mayoral and council candidate, challenged the eligibility of Jose Lizarraga who won the mayoral recall election of Aug. 30th.

A hearing was held Sept. 22, 2011 in La Paz Superior Court. Lizarraga did not file an answer. Town of Quartzsite Attorney Martin Brannan filed an Application to Intervene on the issue of whether the relief requested by Jones could be granted. The relief requested by Jones was to reinstate Ed Foster as Mayor if Lizarraga did not qualify.

Jones first asked that a default be enetered against Lizarraga because he did not file an answer. The court denied the request, citing A.R.S. 16-675 (A) which requires that if the answer is not timely filed, the court shall proceed with the hearing of contest ex parte.

The court found that the Town as an interested party, but only on the issue of whether Foster could be reinstated as Mayor, and allowed the application to intervene on that issue only.

In her Statement of Contest, Jones challenged Lizarraga violated open meeting laws; that Lizarraga thwarted Mayor Fosters' investigation into wrong-doing by him and the council; that the town council, including Lizarraga, unlawfully changed the law to thwart Foster's investigation into conduct by the town council and Lizarraga; that the town council and Lizarraga engaged in various acts in violation of the law intended to impede investigation into Lizarraga's misconduct; that town council and Lizarraga participated in unlawful revocation of town businesses and vending permits; that Lizarraga was unlawfully sworn in as mayor at a special meeting on Sept. 6, 2011; that Lizarraga did not post the required bond prior to him assuming office.

In his ruling, Judge Burke explained Section 2-1-7 of the Town Code covering the posting of a bond by council members appears to all the town to "proceed under A.R.S. 9-302 (B) which allows an incorporated city or town to obtain and deliver to the city or town clerk a blanket bond conditioned on faithful performance of all such city's or town's officers."

Jones argued that if Lizarraga is not qualified to be mayor, then Foster should be reinstated as he received the second largest number of votes. The Court found that A.R.S 19-216 could not allow Foster to be reinstated as mayor, because is is not possible for an incumbent to be recalled and at the same time be retained in the office.

Quartzsite town Attorney, Marin Brannan, filed a memorandum on September 28th, citing various statutes and sections from the Quartzsite Town Code and Arizona Revised Statutes, presenting arguments on the issue of Mr. Lizarraga's qualifications as well as to the relief requested by Jennifer Jones. "The court finds that the pleading is improper given that the Town Attorney did not appear at the hearing to argue the Town's position, and waited until the day before this Court had to file its finding and judgment before filing it, thus not giving Ms. Jones the opportunity for rebuttal argument. Accordingly, this Court will not consider any of arguments presented in the memorandum and will not consider the proposed form of decision order."

In the case of Jennifer Jones vs. Jose Lizarraga, Judge Michael J. Burke ruled Sept. 29, 2011,

"... it is the judgment of the Court that Contestee Jose Lizarraga is qualified to hold the office of Mayor of the Town of Quartzsite if either he posted the required bond or if the town has a blanket bond that covers all its officers. If the required bond is not posted, then he is not qualified to hold the office of Mayor of the town of Quartzsite and the vacancy should be filled pursuant to A.R.S. 9-235 and 9-236" According to Town Manager, Alex Taft, "the blanket bond covers all elected officials, including Jose Lizarraga. "

"... it is the judgment of the Court that Contestee Jose Lizarraga is qualified to hold the office of Mayor of the Town of Quartzsite if either he posted the required bond or if the town has a blanket bond that covers all its officers.

If the required bond is not posted, then he is not qualified to hold the office of Mayor of the town of Quartzsite and the vacancy should be filled pursuant to A.R.S. 9-235 and 9-236"

According to Town Manager, Alex Taft, "we have a blanket bond that covers all elected officials, including Jose Lizarraga."

Jones vs. lizarraga hearing challenging Quartzsite's mayoral recall election

Jennifer Jones challenged the qualifications of the newly elected Mayor Jose Lizarraga today in La Paz County Superior Court. Judge Burke began by explaining the town had filed an application to intervene.
Jones read a prepared "legal response" saying she didn't have time to file it. In her statement, she objected to the town's right to intervene, saying certain rules do not apply. As there were no recording devices allowed, we all had to rely on our notes. Jones' statement was read so fast and had so many points listed, it was beyond my ability to write it all down, so here are some of the highlights.

In a hearing of under 40 minutes, Judge Michael Burke agreed with Town of Quartzsite's attorney, Martin Brannan regarding if Lizarraga is considered ineligible to hold office, the seat is vacant. Jones argued ARS statute 16-672-C does not permit intervention. Burke explained state statute ARS 19-216 is relevant, not 16-672-D, which regulates recall elections. In a recall election, if the incumbent does not receive the most votes, he loses. "He is actually being ousted from office by the voters," Burke said. He also said, "no matter what happens, Foster could not be reinstated as mayor."

Jones asked the court to default, as Lizarraga was not present. Jones asked that Brannan, who was not present, "should have recused himself; he is ineligible to be the town attorney."  Burke asked Jones to continue.


Jones read another statement listing many allegations against Lizarraga. Allegations included: violations of open meeting laws, not placing Police Chief Gilbert on administrative leave, that there was no bond posted according to 2-1-7 of the town code, that he participated in an illegal vote appointing town attorney Martin Brannan, not officially terminating previous town attorney Pam Walsma, participating in restrictions of freedom of speech, he openly admitted to violating open meeting laws, and other allegations.


Burke said, "All we have at this point is accusations." He asked Jones if there had been any proof presented that Lizarraga has been found guilty in a court of law. She replied no. Burke explained, "until he has been found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, these are all just allegations."

Jones focused on the bond issue. Burke asked if she had a copy of the town code. Jones stated she included it in her complaint, but Burke said it was paraphrased. He wanted to research the issue.

He said, "If there is no bond, the office of mayor is vacant. If he has filed a bond, he is still mayor.
Burke also stated he would need to research the matter more. So it's not over, yet.

Jones vs. Quartzsite Mayor Lizarraga hearing set

Parker, AZ
Judge Michael Burke has set a date for a hearing on Thursday, Sept. 22nd at 10am in La Paz County Superior Court. Case No. CV201100117: Jennifer Jones vs. Jose Lizarraga. (See earlier post)

Jones is challenging the qualifications of Lizarraga as mayor. No answer was received from Lizarraga. Town of Quartzsite filed an Application to Intervene. Burke granted the town's application to intervene. The court has allotted one hour for the hearing.

Jennifer Jones challenges Quartzsite mayoral recall election

On Thursday, Sept. 8, 2011 Jennifer Jones filed a legal challenge to the mayoral recall election. Papers were filed in the La Paz County Superior Court in Parker, Ariz. In the recall election held Aug. 30, Jose Lizarraga received 302 votes,  Ed Foster garnered 245 votes, and Jennifer Jones received 23.

In a press release issued on Sept. 8th, Jones claims Lizarraga is not qualified to be mayor under Section 2-1-10 of the Town Code (Ordinance 9-15).

Jones asserts that Lizarraga violated the state of Arizona’s open meeting laws in his position as a councilperson and that he thwarted Mayor Ed Foster’s investigation into wrongdoing by the council, among other accusations. She is asking the court to find Lizarraga ineligible for office, and designate Ed Foster as the winner of the election.


According to the press release, “Lizarraga has until 5pm Wednesday, September 14th, to file a response with the court. The civil case is between private parties Jones and Lizarraga, so town attorney(s) may not represent the newly elected mayor. Jones filed "in pro per", and will represent herself.”

Jennifer Harris - Jones v. Town of Quartzsite lawsuit dismissed!

This afternoon, Alex Taft, Town Manager, released the following press release:

Town of Quartzsite Press Release
Thursday, August 25, 2011



"In April of 2011 Jennifer Harris-Jones filed a complaint against the Town, Town Council Wesley Huntley, [Police Chief] Jeffrey Gilbert and [Town Manager] Alexandra Taft in Superior Court of La Paz County. Ms. Jones was represented by David J. Hossler, of Hunt, Gale, Meerchaum, Orduno & Hossler Law Firm. The Town, represented by the Risk Pool appointed attorney, Rae Richardson, filed for a motion to dismiss the complaint. Mr. Hossler contested a motion to dismiss and subsequently requested a change of Judge.

On August 23, 2011 Judge Randolph Bartlett in Mohave County Superior Court ruled to dismiss the complaint by Ms. Harris-Jones against the Town."

Quartzsite Publisher responds to letter in Desert Freedom Press

In "August 2011" Volume 1, Issue 14, of The Desert Freedom Press, there is a letter to the editor on page 4 written by Michel Halor that drew my attention. The paper has no particular date, other than "August 2011", but was uploaded to the Desert Freedom Press blog today.

The letter reads:

"I would like to clear my name from the false statements made in the May 18th, 2011 Volume 7 issue 131 of the Desert Messenger - in reference to my having a warrant and theft of stolen property.
These statements are in full, false, and I am considering this libel and defamation.
This has been a recurring issue on many occassions. I'm relaying this to you versus the DM because I hold little faith this would ever reach print or be edited truthfully. With all due respect, they need to get their facts right, this is not only embarrassing, but misinformation spreads rumors."
Michel Halor

Those are some rather strong accusations. The only reference I found to the name above was on Page 17 of Desert Messenger's May 18, 2011 issue under the Arrest Report from QPD. This report was emailed to the Desert Messenger by Linda Conley, previous clerk at Quartzsite Police Department. She is also one of the famous "Quartzsite 10", who now works for La Paz County Attorney's office.

I gotta say, that if my name mistakenly appeared under an arrest report, I sure as heck would not wait until 3 months later to complain to another paper about the situation. Jennifer Jones, of the Desert Freedom Press, should have done her due dilligence before printing such a letter (unless she was intentionally trying to shed a negative light upon the Desert Messenger)!

A notice to all readers: All errors/corrections submitted before deadline, are published in the next available edition of the Desert Messenger. Deadline dates are published (in multiple locations) in EVERY issue of the Desert Messenger!

The 2011-2012 publication schedule, along with each deadline, is available online at http://www.desertmessenger.com/. Advertisers and readers, alike, rely upon the Desert Messenger to "hit the streets" on the publication date (if not before) with reliable news, events and entertainment for Quartzsite and surrounding areas.

Every issue since May 5, 2010 is archived online at www.epageflip.net/title/6362 (under the folder icon at top of landing page). Readers may subscribe to a free service to receive emails when the current issue becomes available. Just click on the brown "subscribe" button on the right hand side of the landing page. As soon as the paper is uploaded, an email will be sent to subscribers FREE! Most times this is before the papers even reach town! Get the news first and subscribe FREE!

Desert Messenger begins our 8th year publishing local news, events and entertainment. Stay tuned for the Best of Quartzsite coming soon!

Quartzsite Coffee with Cops clarification

Quartzsite, AZ- Chief Jeff Gilbert held his monthly Coffee with Cops Wed. August 3rd in the meeting room of the Library. Due to a scheduling conflict, the meeting was moved from the normal location into the smaller meeting room. It appears the Greater Phoenix Tea Party and the Oath Keepers are upset about some incorrect information given based on "two confirmed eye witnesses". I am the person who asked what Chief Gilbert thought of a group's event on Facebook called, "Occupy and Liberate Quartzsite Arizona".  I personally take offense to a group using that terminology. I am sure you would too, if a group of strangers decided to come into your hometown and "occupy and liberate" it! Come on folks, it's time to act like adults and stop pointing fingers to create drama!  While listening to the audio of the meeting, here are my notes to clarify the situation:

At Coffee with Cops on Wed. Aug. 3^rd, the first 20 + minutes of the hour-long meeting, the discussion centered on recent power outages. Police Chief Jeff Gilbert talked about the two new cooling centers in town, about taking care of neighbors and how to deal with pets during power outages during the heat of the summer, how APS was so supportive.

 Mrs. Jennifer Jones asked Chief, regarding an injunction filed by officers, if he knew he was going to be represented by the town attorney or the attorney of the insurance pool. Chief Gilbert’s reply was, “I don’t know”. He then explained the recent occurrences regarding the injunction.

About 22 minutes into the meeting, I asked Chief Gilbert how he felt about a new event posted online called, “Occupy and Liberate Quartzsite”; how he felt about outsiders coming in an attempting to occupy Quartzsite.  His reply was that "a few weeks ago, there has been a lot of propaganda being put out there to the media. It has attracted the media. He explained how Mrs. Jones and Mayor Ed Foster had gone to the media with their stories. “They have appealed to the anti-government and radical types. Statements such as the town’s under martial law, officers suppressing the citizens, that the mayor had been kicked out of office, officers in riot gear, are flat out lies. Pure propaganda and it has attracted a lot of attention. That information is still continuing to filter out there. They were flat out lies. We all know that wasn’t the case.”

Chief Gilbert said he was still receiving numerous hate mails threats, phone messages, with some death threats. A woman in the audience asked, “Why is that not a federal crime? Isn’t that domestic terrorism?”

His answer was, “It could be. I have talked to the FBI and the Attorney General and anyone that will listen. What has happened over the past several weeks, I certainly consider this to be domestic terrorism. They are trying to create the fear and scare amongst the people. Our website was shut down, our emails were shut down. Their efforts are to shut down the government of Quartzsite.”

Chief continued to discuss the emergency meeting of June 10^th, “the council set in motion increasing the security measures for everyone in this town because of all the threats and hate mail we have received.”

After a man tried to bring back the discussion to the event I mentioned, Chief Gilbert said, “From my understanding, there’s 3 groups planning on coming in on the 27^th, Oathkeepers, Tea Party and another one. Hopefully they’re a peaceful group. But a lot of these people participating in the comments are advocating violence. It’s a difficult situation that we’re going through.” After Jones questioned where I found the information, I read it verbatim from the event posted on “Supporters of Mayor Ed Foster” Facebook page.

When Jennifer Jones asked if Chief denies he ran her husband 263 times over the past two and half years, Chief’s response was, “How many times?” Jones said, “263 times”. Chief Gilbert replied, “Oh, yes, I deny that!” and the crowd broke out in laughter.

The audience was reminded that the whole Jackson Lewis investigation report is available in the library. He explained the DPS investigation "is ongoing and is narrowly scoped investigation on NCIC and everything is computer generated. The truth will be told."

Chief Gilbert expressed he was sad about the situation with the officers. "The two officers who have returned to work are regretful." He asked the community to have confidence in the department. “If there’s a rebuilding we have to do, we will do that.”

There was discussion about a new gun store and indoor shooting range being planned near the Police Station. Jones asked if Chief considered those who frequent the new gun store terrorists. Chief said, “I hope not!” Chief said, "you don’t have to own a gun to be a terrorist."

One woman reminded Chief about what he said last year about how police never get invited to “Little Johnny’s” birthday party, unless it’s a domestic violence call. There was a discussion about how important it is to tell an officer thank you. Other attendees shared personal stories about how they appreciate the local police officers.

Chief Gilbert assured the audience “we’ll be ready” when asked about the upcoming season and the snowbirds arriving.

On Thursday, Aug. 4th, Oathkeepers announced the Quartzsite Liberty Festival will take place in Quartzsite on Saturday, August 27th.  The groups involved are the Oathkeepers, Greater Phoenix Tea Party, Sons of Liberty, and others.

Information on the upcoming "Quartzsite Liberty Festival" can be found below:
http://oathkeepers.org/oath/2011/08/03/oath-keepers-to-muster-quartzsite-arizona-august-27-2011/
http://phoenixteaparty.ning.com/profiles/blogs/greater-phoenix-tea-party-have

Only in Quartzsite!

Quartzsite is probably the only town where you will see this!

A man was seen yesterday walking up and down Main Street 

wearing Ed Foster for Mayor signs. 

That doesn't sound too unusual, does it?

However that man is 

John "Jack" Jones

whose wife, 

Jennifer "Jade" Jones,

 is running AGAINST Foster 

in the August 30th special mayoral recall election. hmmmm....

He will probably explain he was just exercising his rights of free speech of

 "digitus impudicus" 

(meaning he was flipping people off)

No wonder voters and outsiders may be confused.....

"Only in Quartzsite!" 

Photo by Shanana "Rain" Golden-Bear

Questions raised over Quartzsite's Desert Messenger

Quartzsite, AZ - Questions have been raised by Jennifer "Jade" Harris Jones on when I, Shanana "Rain" Golden-Bear took over publishing the Desert Messenger. It's kind of silly, but I feel I need to clarify the situation. She claimed in comments below that she looks forward to entering into evidence into court that my first issue was Vol. 4 No. 75, dated May 13, 2008 and falsely accuses me that I allowed almost two full pages of to "defame a rival publisher". Proof is in the page above!

 The headline in the bottom right corner of this issue is "The End is Here" and begins with the statement, "This will be the last issue of the Desert Messenger published by Walt Akin."

Jones tricked me once in court when I was suffering from the flu. After an 3 hours of odd court room drama, I was totally exhausted and not thinking clearly. After witnessing Jones in court many times since then, I am now familiar with her slight of hand techniques.

Also on page 4 is a bit of history about me and on page 11 (of 12) states "Desert Messenger is an Desert Production." [with typo]. If anyone wishes to see the full 12 pages of Akin's last edition, or my first 16 page edition of Oct. 1st, 2008, I can email a copy....much later, for I have other work to do.

To clarify once again, Jones' accusations are proven false! Twists and turns of words do not change facts! I believe she should do her due diligence before making further accusations in such a public forum!

Quartzsite rumors not all they're cracked up to be

Okay, folks, I've had it with all the lies, untruths, and misconceptions!

AZCentral.com has a new article today with many riduculous errors. The very long and detailed article tries to explain how things got to be so crazy in Quartzsite. However, they are missing many important facts.

-The Desert Messenger was founded in 2004 by Walt Akin. I began publishing in October, 2008. At the time, Akin was on the town council and within a few months was appointed mayor. Since taking over in 2008 (beginning with a 16-page issue), the number of advertisers and community participation has grown to the point of printing 48 page-issues three times this past season. I have worked in the newspaper advertising industry for over 11 years in metropolitan centers and small towns alike. Since 2008, the Desert Messenger has published on time every time, even when I thought I'd be late once. The Yuma Sun prints the papers and does a great job of dealing with last minute breaking news. (The most recent issue was delivered to town during the long power outage, and could not be delivered to closed businesses until they opened up the next day) You can find the current rate card and dealines online at http://www.desertmessenger.com/. Next year's rate card will be available beginning August 1, 2011. All issues from the past year are available for viewing online at http://www.epageflip.net/title/6362. You can sign up to receive email notifications when the next edition is available.

- Mayor Ed Foster does NOT publish a newspaper. He has a website where he posts his opinions. There was a four-page newsletter that hit the streets during a campaign season, called the Mineshaft, but there was no information on who published or wrote the articles. Since then, he began his website.

- Jennifer "Jade" Harris Jones does publish a paper in town which began in December, 2010, however without a business license. I filed a complaint with town hall the next day, which was appropriate. Jones has another court date of July 27th, after many delays, to deal with that as well as nine + other charges. Jones contends she does not need a business license because she gives her paper away. No one has seen her July edition, either online or in town. Her rate card of December, 2010 states she would give advertisers a discount ONLY if they agree NOT to advertise in Desert Messenger for one year.


- The name of Jones' first edition was called "Desert Free Press" however, after the owner of www.DesertFreePress.com contacted her about using his business name, she abruptly changed the name to "The Desert Freedom Press". In most of Jone's papers, she includes "rumors" about residents causing much dissention within the community. Many advertisers contacted me after her first issue, complaining Jones placed their ads in her paper without their consent. Some said they were concerned about damage to the reputation of their business because of the ads being in her paper. Jones, of course, called me a lier.

- I have no Injunction of Harassment orders against Jones, nor she on me! A Free-Lance Contributing photographer to the Desert Messenger, Starr BearCat, has a 10 ft. injunction against Jennifer Jones in Public Meetings only. Jennifer Jones initiated the claims with filing for an injunction against harassment against BearCat. She was given the minimum of 5 ft. in public meetings, as Judge Charlene Weiss stated she would normally even not grant it, but knew that if she didn't, Jones would be back in her "court next week"! Then her husband, John "Jack" Jones, filed for an injunction against BearCat. He was granted a 5 ft. in Public Meetings. However, BearCat was then granted an injunction against John Jones of 10 ft. anywhere, any place, any time. Jennifer Jones refused an offer of compromise by BearCat, in front of Judge Weiss, and chose to try to interfer with BearCat's spiritual gathering by asking for a court date during the planned vacation. The hearing is now scheduled for Aug. 1st at 1:30pm at La Paz County Court in Parker, AZ.

- Jones continues to claim she has filed criminal charges on me, however, I have not been contacted by any court or law enforcement agency regarding any perceived charges.

-Her own actions are what causes her to get in trouble with the law, no matter how anyone wants to spin it. I was actually asked why I would believe a police report over what Jones said and all I could do was laugh! The lies have been told so many times, people are now believing them. All I can say is she has multiple arrests, and I do not. Her husband John "Jack" Jones did call the police on me while I was photographing a construction site from across the street of their business location, yelling at me across the five-lane highway. He claimed he had an injunction against me from videotaping him. Well, needless to say, I am no party in any lawsuit or injunction orders, period!

- In the article, Foster states "There's a cabal running Quartzsite". According to Wikipedia, "A cabal is a group of people united in some close design together, usually to promote their private views and/or interests in a church, state, or other community, often by intrigue." The article also states Foster is the one "who leads the anti-establishment group". This group is called The Coalition which now meets secretly. I actually attended some Coalition meetings in 2008-2009 believing their words of wanting to help Quartzsite. After a few months of witnessing their anger, attacks of anything and everything that went on at town hall, their "us vs. them" mentallity, I moved on to help found Proud Neighbors of Quartzsite (PNQ), an organization to promote Quartzsite by creating events unique to the area. Our initials ask everyone to "mind their P's N Q's"! PNQ was instrumental in naming Quartzsite as the Rock Capital of the World in 2009.

- Foster left out the fact that he filed multiple complaints against Chief Jeff Gilbert within days of being sworn in as mayor. The complete DPS report is available for viewing at the Quartzsite Library, showing Gilbert was exonerated.

- Jennifer "Jade" Harris Jones is now a candidate for the mayoral recall election on August 30th, along with Michale Roth, who reportedly withdrew his name after the town did not challenge his ability to run based on Roth owing the town funds. Along with Foster, former Council member Jose Lizarraga is also on the ballot for mayor.

- Jones also left out the fact that her federal compaints against the town were dismissed by the U.S. District Court in Phoneix.

- All current Council members suvived attempts at a recall vote just this past March.

- Also left out of the article was just how much Foster has cost the town in legal fees. Just in the past 6 months or so, the ever-growing amount is well over $40,000. The Town is beginning to recoup a small portion as Foster now owes for town attorney fees when he failed to show at two recent hearings, one of which he requested.

- Internal Police employee issues raised during the past couple of months are internal affairs. The investigation of complaints on Police Chief Jeff Gilbert, raised by 9 QPD officers & 1 clerk,  has been completed and the results should be forthcoming soon.

- Quartzsite is a thriving community with caring residents! Our small charter school of just over 100 students had winning football and ladie's softball teams this season. Scholars' Academy Stars are State Champions! Now how's that for a small town!!!

- Thousands of Snowbirds are in love with Quartzsite, filling the surrounding desert in their RVs during the winter season. Last year, Quartzsite gained international attention for the GOOD that happens here! The BLM maintains 11,000 acres of desert allowing folks to camp for $180 from mid-September thru Mid-April. Plus there are five 14-day free camping areas surrounding the town. ATV Trails in all directions lead to the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Swap meets still attract crowds looking for great deals. Vendor prices have not increased since 2003, remaining at $50 for the season. (The length was adjusted to meet P&Z Codes and now are good for 6 months instead of the previous year) There's a new 3-day Vendor Permit ($15)available for those who just want to come in for a weekend event.

- Quartzsite is located just 17 miles east the California border, on I-10 & State Route 95, in a small valley filled with people who love the rural living. During the winter season you'll find Gems & Minerals, Rock Shows, Fine Art, Bingo, Great Food, Delightful Arts & Crafts, Music, Swap Meets, Fantastic Deals, Cruise-In Car Shows, Classes for all ages, Parades, Chili Cook-off, Fun for the Whole Family, Rock Painting, Red Hatters, Gold Hunting, Metal Detecting, RV Shows and Sales, RV Gatherings and Rallies, Hi Jolly Cemetery, AZ Centennial Events, Quartzsite Museum, Entertainment, Auctions, Generous Churches, and MORE!  "Set your sights on Quartzsite!" is a favorite song by New Christy Minstrels who come to perform each January at the QIA. Don't miss out on all the fun!
We either grow or we stagnate. Let's grow in a good way for the next seven generations to come!

NY Times says, Quartzsite "Mayor Foster loves to raise a ruckus"

NY Times journalist Jennifer Medina, of Los Angeles, came to Quartzsite recently along with other media, in pursuit of the truth about all the rumors flying around the Internet. "Arizona Town's Mayor at Center of Dispute" also titled, "Kicking up the Dust in an Arizona Desert Town" talks about the recent activities of Quartzsite Town Council, Town Officials, twice-censured Mayor Ed Foster, and the recent arrest video of Jennifer "Jade" Harris Jones bringing worldwide attention to Quartzsite.

In respect of the New York Times' copyrighted material, you can find the link below.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/16/us/16quartzsite.html?_r=1&ref=jennifermedina



The photo of Mayor Ed Foster with, what appears to be, one of Richard Oldham's beautiful classic cars apparantly was taken in the sales lot of Oldham's Desert Gardens Cars in Quartzsite. It makes Quartzsite look absolutely gorgeous. Great photo, Joshua Lott!

Response to "UNKNOWN": Thanks for the correction. A quote is a quote. By providing the link, readers can read the whole article themselves.

Quartzsite Council no show for short noticed special meeting

Only censured Mayor Ed Foster and one council member, Jose Lizarraga attended last night's special meeting called by Foster to discuss allegations of Quartzsite Chief of Police, Jeff Gilbert and Town Manager, Alex Taft. The only town staff present were Assistant Town Manager, Al Johnson and Town Clerk Karen Norris. Present in the standing room only crowd many QPD officers along with Chief Gilbert. Taft was reported to be on vacation.

Jennifer Jade Harris-Jones of The Desert Freedom Press, a local tabloid operating without a business license, issued a press release Tuesday. Reporters from Parker Pioneer and Arizona Republic were also present.

The press release details how nine QPD officers plus the clerk filed a complaint with the AZPOST and AZCOPS, announcing their vote of "no confidence" in Chief Gilbert. Allegations range from criminal accusations and ethical abuses.

After the roll call, Foster declared the meeting adjourned, due to a lack of a quorum. He then announced he will proceed with a Town Hall Meeting, allowing people to speak.

Gilbert spoke saying Foster is violating his rights to due process by allowing this meeting. Many people spoke on both sides of the issues, but no officers spoke. According to their press release, the officers plan on reading their complaint at the Tuesday, June 14th Town Council Meeting.

Foster called the council members cowards for not showing up to the meeting. Council member, Jerry Lukkasson had said, "I had to work at a special fundraising function at the restaurant. We were all advised not to discuss the investigation in any way." Council member Patricia Anderson stated she also had to work.

Past mayor Steve Bennett agreed that the council should not discuss the issues until the investigation is complete and that they should not have held this meeting. He stated the council should have shown up to the meeting anyway. Bennett also cautioned Foster about name calling and suggested listening to the advise of their attorney.

After 20 minutes of hearing people talk, Johnson announced he allowed enough time for the council to arrive. He said that since there is no council meeting and the town hall meeting was not publicized correctly, he declared the meeting over. Johnson said, " on the advise of our attorneys town hall is now closed", and that staff is going home. The crowd objected loudly, but began to leave the building. Foster said, "you heard it, no more public comments." Harris-Jones then took the microphone and announced, "I motion we continue this meeting outside on the steps of the town hall in the standard tradition."

The crowd mingled outside. People talked in small circles, while the reporter from Arizona Republic spoke with the officers and some of the crowd. People remained calm on the patio outside Town Hall.

Quartzsite sex offenders "take offense" Are you kidding?

EDITORIAL:

The Desert Messenger, "Quartzsite's FREE Community Paper", now in our 7th year, is NOT affiliated in ANY WAY with the Desert Freedom Press (DFP), a 6-month old tabloid still operating without a Quartzsite business license. Publisher, Jennifer "Jade" Harris-Jones, claims she doesn't need one because the paper is free and quotes "case law", etc. Well, she has a court date on Wed. to see if that defense holds true.

A recent article in DFP expressed sympathy for two Quartzsite Level 2 & 3 CONVICTED Sex Offenders. I received an email from an irrate reader, assuming the article was published in my paper. After clarifying the situation with the reader (who was very apologetic about the mixup), it became clear to me that readers are falling prey to the confusion Jennifer "Jade" Harris-Jones probably had hoped for when she chose the name of her publication.

The name of her first publication dated Dec. 2010, was "Desert Free Press". After the owner of www.DesertFreePress.com became aware of the use his name, Jones quickly changed it slightly, as if no one would notice, to "Desert Freedom Press". Changes were made on her blog and on her paper's blog site, deleting all references of the original name on the Internet.

Jones' article, titled, "Sex offenders take offense" claims that "neither sex offenders had been convicted by a jury of their peers, on evidence that proved their guilt 'beyond a reasonable doubt'". As the mother of a child who was molested, I can tell you that my daughter's perpetrator was also not brought before a "jury of his peers". That's just the way it was. My daughters' offender is still a registered sex offender, according to United States law.

To give such a prominent position and space to a level 2 and a level 3 sex offender, quoting "the girl's family was rich and we were poor" is just irresponsible reporting, in my opinion.

My daughter's journey of healing was a long process, as is any child, or adult, who experienced this type of crime. If the author of that article had any ounce of compassion, she would have taken the time to be concerned about the victims of these crimes, rather than spotlight the sad stories of the perpetrators. Yes, they served their time, and they will continue to be forced to register in the town(s) they live in. That's the way the law is set up, period. That does not stop them from going out to eat at the local McDonald's. Was he banned due to something else? The laws protect Sex Offenders from harassment. If that were true, I suggest he make a formal complaint and not play it out in the local tabloid.

According to Judy Hedding, of http://www.about.com/,

"Arizona's Department of Public Safety knows that there are about 11,000 sex offenders in the State of Arizona. Sex offenders who have been released from custody are required to register with the police. You can see if the most dangerous of those have moved into your area at the Arizona Department of Public Safety's Sex Offender Info Center.

Why is DPS Doing This?
In June of 1996 Arizona adopted its version of "Megan's Law" which includes a community notification process when a sex offender is released from jail or prison, or when they are on probation. By placing this information on the Internet, everyone can now have access to the information and can assist in keeping the information current. Maricopa County has been recognized by The Center For Sex Offender Management as one of sixteen areas of the country that has implemented unique resources for sex offender management.
 
What is Megan's Law?
Megan Kanka was 7 years old when a twice-convicted sex offender, living across the street, brutally raped and murdered her. The crime occurred in New Jersey. In 1994 Governor Christine Todd Whitman signed "Megan's Law" requiring convicted sex offenders to register with local police. The law further establishes a system of notification to the public. President Clinton signed the law in May 1996.

Who's On the Arizona List?
There are approximately 11,000 sex offenders in Arizona. According to the AZ Department of Public Safety Sex Offender Compliance Team, as of September 2007 there are about 2,700 Level 2 sex offenders in Arizona, (about 1,100 of them reside in Maricopa County), and about 1,700 Level 3 sex offenders in Arizona (about 750 of them reside in Maricopa County).
Registered sex offenders from other states must register in Arizona only if they will be in Arizona for more than 10 days. Transients must also register, and are designated as "homeless." There is a limit to how many sex offenders on probation can reside in any one multi-family dwelling to prevent clustering. As of September 19, 2007 Arizona law stipulates that Level 3 sex offenders may not reside within 1,000 feet of a school or a day care center (certain exemptions apply).

How Is the Risk Established and What do the Levels Mean?
There are 19 criteria used to assess the likelihood that a convicted sex offender will commit such a crime again. Point values are assessed for the 19 risk factors, and the total points derived for an individual determine whether he/she will be assigned a Level 1, 2 or 3 rating. Level 1 represents low risk, Level 2 represents intermediate risk, and Level 3 represents high risk."

As a society, we need to be compassionate to all victims of sex crimes. Yes, I am very passionate about this painful topic! I have a reason to be concerned about the youth of our nation! They are our future and we are their teachers. Anyone who is a parent knows the responsibility of raising a child to be a valuable assest to our society. We teach compassion, respect, the honor of our elders, to be able to recognize right from wrong, to be helpful, to walk in a good way on this earth, along with many other character traits.

When making decisions, we need to ask ourselves, "how will this serve the next 7 generations?" Protecting our children is the most important thing we can do as a society. I hope Quartzsite residents will take a stand to protect all of our youth!

Quartzsite Mayor Ed Foster arrested!

Quartzsite, AZ- Tuesday, May 10, 2011, just prior to the regular meeting of the Quartzsite Town Council, Mayor Ed Foster was arrested, cited and released on 3 charges pertaining to a May 5th incident involving the arrest of Jennifer “Jade” Harris-Jones.


The Misdemeanor Charges were: 1) Disorderly Conduct – Fighting/Violent/Disruptive, 2) Disorderly Conduct – Refuse to Disperse at Emergency, 3) Hindering Prosecution 2nd Degree. A Felony charge, Obstructing Criminal Investigations, was sent to La Paz County Attorney’s Office for review.

According to Quartzsite Police Dept (QPD) reports, on May 5th, Foster arrived on the scene of a “high profile drug investigation” taking place near the QPD's holding cell, in the employee parking lot located behind Town Hall. Jennifer “Jade” Harris-Jones was already on the scene locked inside her vehicle, refusing to obey police orders. Foster was “warned several times” by Quartzsite Police Chief Jeff Gilbert not to interfere. “He became threatening by yelling that he was my [Gilbert’s] ‘boss’ and the ‘Mayor’ and that he was demanding an explanation.”

As Jones was being arrested, she evidently threw her keys towards Foster, who according to the report, “ran and stepped on the keys in an attempt to keep me [Gilbert] from getting them. [Gilbert] then had to physically pry his foot off of them to retrieve them.” According to Gilbert, Foster drove off before being sited at the scene.

After the arrest on Tuesday evening, Foster proceeded to lead the Town Council meeting that night. For the video, visit www.YouTube.com/user/qwatchingeyes.

A hearing has been set for June 8th, however Foster has requested a change of venue.

Low turnout for Quartzsite "Meet the Challengers" Reception

Last night the five candidates challenging the incumbent Town Council Members held a "reception" at Crawford's Trailer Park at 7pm. The five challengers, David Gjerdahl, Pat Workman, Victor Lee (write-in), Jennifer Jones, and Sean Austin (write-in) talked to a small audience of EIGHT--2 members of the press, 1 musician (who performed two beautiful songs), 2 challenger supporters, the event sponsor, and only 2 members from the community).
It was publicized as a "casual meet and greet", where candidates would be answering "your questions one on one". The candidates were seated behind a table and spoke about their history, why they are upset with the town, and changes they wish to make. It wasn't until asked a question that Workman spoke saying, "they've about said it all, and there's not much more to say."