How Lance Boldrey Turned a Stint in the Governor's Office Into a 10+ Year Multi-Million Dollar Engagement with Detroit Casino Syndicators

Blogger's Note: We've received several inquiries about Michigan gaming attorney R. Lance Boldrey and note an increase in the number of people visiting TheVerifiableTruth.com as part of browser searches of Boldrey's name so we're republishing this 1.08.2007 post originally titled "Aide negotiated '11th Hour' Port Huron casino deal for Gov. Engler; then joined private practice, retained by those who got the deal"

On Sunday, January 7th, the Port Huron Times Herald published an editorial, "Feds must come to aid of Port Huron," suggesting that a Bay Mills Indian Casino planned for that community might still be alive. At the very least, the following raises ethical questions and creates curious circumstances surrounding the proposed casino, deserving of investigation and disclosure.

R. Lance Boldrey joined the staff of Michigan Governor John Engler sometime in 1999 as Deputy Legal Counsel and chief negotiator for Indian Affairs matters in the Governor's third and final term.

Throughout most of Engler’s 12 years as Governor, Engler steadfastly opposed the expansion of Indian gaming... BUT in the final months, with Boldrey helming negotiations, something changed.

In September 2002, roughly three months before Engler's term would expire, the Governor was compelled to sign a land claims settlement agreement Boldrey and others had negotiated the month before with the Bay Mills Indian Community. The agreement would pave the way for a third Bay Mills Indian Community casino to be developed in the urban border town of Port Huron, 350 miles away from its Brimley, MI reservation.

On December 20, 2002, with less than two weeks remaining on his term, Gov. Engler also signed a new Tax Agreement with the Bay Mills Indian Community covering (or protecting) the Tribe, its proposed Port Huron casino and other commercial and trust properties. Presumably Boldrey played a lead role in those negtotiations as well.

Oddly enough, the so-called "land claims" made by the Bay Mills Tribe in 1996 (the threat driving any need for a Settlement Agreement at all) were never verified. Both state and federal courts tossed out the claims, at that time, on administrative grounds. This raises question about the rushed 11th hour change of policy by Engler and the need for any Settlement Agreement at all. Did the state trade a casino for land claims that weren't legitimate afterall? Were the circumstances surrounding the Settlement Agreement just a theatrical smokescreen to rationalize approval for a third Bay Mills Tribal casino in Port Huron?

But Engler knew the land claims weren't valid and that they were being used to leverage a casino because in a 1999 opinion letter published by the Record Eagle intended to set the record straight, Engler wrote:

"... I find it remarkable that Congressman Stupak would step in at this late date and join with the Bay Mills Tribe in using the Charlotte Beach homeowners as political pawns. Make no mistake about it - Congressman Stupak's proposal is solely about trying to give the Bay Mills Tribe an otherwise illegal casino..."

"... the state of Michigan has stood by these properly owners since day one, defended them in court, and won the dismissal of the Bay Mills lawsuit against the Charlotte Beach owners. I have no doubt that this dismissal will hold up on appeal ..."

R. Lance Boldrey parlayed stint in Governor's
Office into 10+ year million dollar engagement

Within weeks of Engler approving the the Settlement Agreement, Boldrey flew to Washington D.C. and eagerly represented Governor Engler before a U.S. Senate Indian Affairs Committee hearing on Capitol Hill. Backers of the Bay Mills casino were attempting to railroad congressional approvals in the closing days of the 107th Congress needed to affect terms of the Engler negotiated Agreements.

Boldrey's eagerness might partially be explained in part by the fact that in July 2002 the White House announced the President’s intention to nominate Boldrey to serve as a trustee of the Udall Foundation. The nomination wasn't sent to the Senate until January 2003 and Boldrey was confirmed in April 2003. During that 6-9 month period it was certainly in Boldrey’s interest to increase his profile in Washington D.C and exploit the credentials he’d developed during the short time he worked as Gov. Engler’s Indian Affairs agent. 

With the help of people like Boldrey, first term Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) had drafted and introduced S. 2986 as a companion to the Settlement Agreement on September 20, 2002. Less than two weeks after its introduction (usually this takes months, sometimes even more than a year), the bill was scheduled to be heard before the full Senate Indian Affairs Committee. At the October 10, 2002 hearing, as the Governor's representative, Boldrey sat beside the Bay Mills Community's elected Council President John Lufkins and together they urged the committee’s swift endorsement. It wasn't to be; Senator Harry Reid (D-NV), a leading Democrat and member of the Committee stood in their way.

Time was ticking on the Engler Administration and on the friday before the 2002 Christmas holiday, with less than 5-6 full business days left on the calendar, Governor Engler also signed a new Tax Agreement with the Bay Mills Tribe. Among other protections for the Tribe and its members, the Agreement exempted (page 9) hotel rooms, restaurant food and beverages sold as part of any casino and its adjoining resort properties from lodging taxes, sales taxes and use taxes.

Engler’s 12 year administraton came to an end on January 1, 2003 leaving Boldrey unemployed. But within weeks, Boldrey announced he was returning to private practice. He had decided to join the Lansing office of the Dykema Gossett law firm and was tasked with starting up an Indian Law Practice for the firm. A longtime Engler friend, confidant and political agent Richard D. McLellan was a senior partner in the Dykema office. The Dykema law firm had already been handling legal business matters for the MotorCity commercial casino partnership in Detroit. Ilitch, Malik and others who were founders of MotorCity Casino have been the driving force behind the third Bay Mills casino project for a decade or more.

So, Boldrey joined Dykema and before long, the Bay Mills Indian Community, its casino backers like Marian Ilitch and Michael Malik, and others whom previously had to negotiate across the table from Boldrey in his role as the Governor’s point man had retained Dykema Gossett (Boldrey & McLellan) to work on Indian law and gaming matters at prime corporate law firm rates. Boldrey's role now was to protect and advocate for their interests going forward.

What or who compelled the Governor's dramatic change of direction in the last months and days of his administration? Why this proposal instead of some other? Five years ago, those questions were swept under the carpet.

When had Boldrey decided to return to private practice? When did he open talks with Dykema? What role did Richard McLellan play in recruiting Boldrey? What involvement had McLellan had with the 11th hour negotiations with various tribes including Bay Mills? When did Boldrey's future clients learn of his career move? When did they first discuss a future working together? What relationships did he have with "Charlotte Beach" area land owners then or now? Who did he negotiate against as the Governor's representatives that paid him or Dykema after he joined Dykema?


Certainly an attorney whose credits included pulling-off a deal like this would be in high demand and command the highest of fees.

What relationships if any did Boldrey/McLellan have with attorneys Anthony Andary, Robert Golden?

With all of the other matters deserving greater urgency, why was there such a last minute push five years ago for a Settlement Agreement with Bay Mills Indians when they've yet to prove their land claims valid?

What's really at play in the "Charlotte Beach" (also referred to as "Hay Lake" by Bay Mills Tribal Council President) area referenced in the unverified land claims? The Hay Lake/Charlotte Beach locations are near impossible to find on maps in Chippewa County -- Atlas, Google, USGS, etc. or via governmental agency resources. It's only in old plat maps that one will find a reference to the "Charlotte Beach subdivision" east of the Barbeau community on Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
"Charlotte Beach" is a rather obscure place, not among those included in the USGS master place names data base nor referenced in resources available via the Department of Natural Resources at Michigan.gov; it is not noted as a town or community or any other place of significance in Michigan; other respective state and federal sources simply don't designate the 110- acre place. There are no obvious references noted by non-profit environmental or natural resource protection groups either. In fact, the only modern public documentation that references a place called "Charlotte Beach" in Michigan are documents related to the Bay Mills land claims. It is doubtful Governor Engler or anyone else for that matter had visited Charlotte Beach, Michigan to see for themselves what was going on there. One must wonder what sort of investigation was done to see who really owns land there or who has bought land since.

It just doesn't add up: a complete and documented reversal of a Governor's long held public policy stance opposing the expansion of gaming; no validated land claims, yet a signed Land Claims Settlement Agreement; two existing casinos already, just not in prime urban locations; an 11th hour Tax Agrement too; 110 acres of land in "Charlotte Beach," an area not designated on maps or by any public agencies or non-profit groups as significant or sensitive; and a lead negotiator who was later engaged by the very parties he once negotiated against. Before Congress or any other elected officials or public agencies take any further action, a complete investigation and full disclosures are warranted.

And what role or connections has political consultant Tom Shields (also an Engler insider, political advisor to Rep. Candice Miller, and longtime spin doctor to Mike & Marian Ilitch) played in these schemes?


See also:

• The Dykema Law Firm: the legal team behind the Bay Mills, Los Coyotes & Shinnecock Indian casino schemes
• Boldrey negotiated '11th Hour' Port Huron casino deal for Gov. Engler; then joined private practice, retained by those who got the deal
• Boldrey, McLellan, the Dykema Gossett law firm and their connection to John Engler and the Bay Mills Indian Community
• Michael Malik and partners funded Gov. Engler during gambling negotiations
• Boldrey apparently obtained a conflict-of-interest waiver from Governor Granholm allowing him to represent casino promoter
• Barstow official & Boldrey kept their knowledge of reported Chemehuevi campsite in City of Barstow hush-hush
• Boldrey and other may have mislead Schwarzenegger's negotiator to get approvals for twin casinos
• House Judiciary committee to probe Attorney Boldrey’s dual involvments in Port Huron casino deal
• Casino developer’s representations biased; consultants “specialization” challenged
• Ilitch/Malik said to have paid $10 million in legal fees advancing Port Huron Indian casino
• Dykema Lobbyists set up expense account for Oakland County Exec Brooks Patterson
• Ilitch team out in full force with New York Casino gambling partner
• Dykema lobbyists disclose they are behind Ilitch backed plans for Port Huron casino

To Bypass Carcieri and Other Off-Reservation Casino Hurdles, Detroiters Plan Introduction of "Mandatory Acquisition Legislation" in Congress

Detroiters who stand to gain hundreds of million of dollars developing and operating Shinnecock Indian Nation gambling halls on Long Island and possibly Governor's Island in New York Harbor, are planning to introduce federal legislation to help them secure approvals and get around off-reservation stumbling blocks including the Carcieri ruling.

According to a timeline produced by the Detroiters' consultants, they are planning to carry out a PR campaign beginning in December 2011 that lays the groundwork for something they refer to as "Mandatory Acquisition Legislation."  That includes plans to "work closely with local governments, union, community groups to build and demonstrate support" for projects in Suffolk County and at Belmont Race Track in Nassau County.

From December 2011 - February 2012, the timeline indicates they will:

• Finalize Mandatory Acquisition Legislation for introduction to Congress.
• Finalize PR plans to support congressional introduction and promote passage of Mandatory Acquisition Legislation 

Then in March 2012 they plan to introduce the so-called "Mandatory Acquisition Legislation" to federal officials.

The timeline notes these "ongoing' activities relative to their "Mandatory Acquisition Legislation" strategy:

• Meet with Federal elected officials; Schumer and Gillibrand; Nassau County and Suffolk County Congressional delegation. Demonstrate local support for Project.
• Meet with key Federal and State elected officials needed to support Mandatory Acquisition Legislation. Prepare white papers and testimony for congressional committee hearings.
• Meet with key elected officials, committee chairs, key DOI officials, and present testimony at committee hearings; lobby- lobby- lobby

In addition to up to three casinos on Long Island, the Detroiters may also be eyeing the opportunity to develop a gambling/entertainment mecca on Governor's Island in New York Harbor. (See renderings)

See other materials obtained with the timeline.

Click on the “labels” below to see related posts, documents, resources or visit these any of these posts:

• Ilitch affiliate retains former U.S. Senator Alfonse D'Amato's lobbying firm to push New York Casino plans for Shinnecock
• Al D'Amato retained to advance Detroiters Long Island Casino Schemes is also leading fight for online gaming
• Shinnecock and Ilitch affiliate Gateway Casino Resorts paid $1.5 million to New York Lobbyists
• D.C. Lobbyists Paid $2.33 Million to Advance Shinnecock Casinos
• Shinnecock Casino Backers have dropped $117,500 on top-ranking NY Politicians
• Detroit Casino Syndicators Organize Additional Gaming Affiliates in Decade Long Pursuit of CA & NY Gambling Halls
• Scandal Continues to Plague Political and Lobbying Activities of Detroiters Bankrolling Shinnecock Casino Plans

Reps McCarthy & Bishop: The Company They're Keeping Will Surely Lead to Regret

Reps. McCarthy & Bishop

While New York’s Governor Andrew Cuomo rejected a $10k contribution from crooked Casino Syndicator Michael J. Malik, Sr.; Long Island Reps. Carolyn McCarthy & Tim Bishop banked $$$ from the shady character.

Then after cashing the checks, both elected leaders announced their support for the Detroiter's Long Island Casino schemes.

If they’d only done a little due diligence. Or perhaps they too are persons of questionable character?

But as the saying goes, "You can tell a lot about a person by the company they keep."

Highlight’s of Casino Syndicator Michael J. Malik, Sr.'s Criminal Past:

In Michigan, arrested & served probation for child abuse following the public street beating of his girlfriend's 12-year-old son. Reportedly this is one of the reasons Malik won’t get a gaming license from the Michigan Gaming Control Board. (Detroit News)

In Arizona, found guilty of illegally discharging a fire arm and serving out terms of probation which included nearly $15,000 fine and a suspended license. (Minutes of AZ Hearing)

In California, fined multiple times for repeated violations of political reform laws, failing to report dozens of contributions totaling more than $53,000 and fined $10,000 for those offenses. (Matter 2006: FPPC Press Release. Matter 2009: FPPC Press Release and Exhibit 1.)

In Florida, charged with fraud in federal Ponzi scheme related case and forced to repay $170,000. (Goldberg v. Malik: Settlement Agreement). Despite those circumstances, Malik continues an “active” business partnership with Jack Utsick, the international fugitive at the center of the $300 million Ponzi scheme. (AB Funding, LLC: Organization Statement. Complete Michigan DL&EG File.)

See also:

• Growing List of NY Politicians Rejecting $$$ from Ilitch Partner Michael Malik
• NY Governor Cuomo Latest To Reject Campaign Contributions from Ilitch Gambling Partner Michael Malik
• Proof that Ilitch Casinos Partner was in bed with Ponzi Scheme Fugitive Jack Utsick
• Rep. Tim Bishop (D-NY) Caught Taking More Money from Notorious Law-Breaking Detroit Casino Syndicator

On Twitter:

Rep. Carolyn McCarthy: @RepMcCarthyNY

Rep. Tim Bishop: @TimBishopNY

GAMBLING: Anti-gambling groups outgunned in Capitol debate | PE.com

GAMBLING: Anti-gambling groups outgunned in Capitol debate | PE.com - The Press-Enterprise

11.15.2011

By Jim Miller

jmiller@pe.com

SACRAMENTO — Legalizing some form of Internet gambling in California depends on prominent gaming tribes, the horse-racing industry, key lawmakers and other moneyed interests being able to come to terms.

The outcome does not hinge on what people like the Rev. James Butler have to say.

Butler, executive director of the California Coalition Against Gambling Expansion [CCAGE], is a leading critic of the idea of opening cyberspace to legal gambling. Compulsive gambling already ruins the lives of thousands, he and others contend, and letting people bet without ever leaving the house would make the problem worse.

But as lawmakers weigh the largest expansion of legalized gambling in state history, a once-influential coalition of gambling critics is overshadowed by competing gambling interests or otherwise missing in action.

The focus seems to be on how — not if — government should allow online gambling and derive revenue from it. (Complete Story)

Legal forms of gambling in California

Ruse: Citizens for a Better Way, LLC

ruse  n. (rūs, rūz)

Definition:  strategem intended to mislead, deceive, or trick; conspiracy,wiley subterfuge.

Synonyms:  artful dodge, trick, deceit, deception, conspiracy, angle, sham, stunt, lie, ploy, maneuver, red herring, coup, dirty deal, gimmick, hoax, scheme, racket.

Example:  Citizens for a Better Way, LLC, is a ruse: bankrolled by secret interests who, for whatever reason, want to operate outside the norms of Hawaii's Ethics Commission; and designed by experienced labor and gambling industry lobbyists desperate for the appearance of "grassroots" support demanding approval of schemes to enable a Las Vegas-style casino in Waikiki.


Citizens for a Better Way, LLC at:
Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs
Hawaii Ethics Commission

Lobbyist John Radcliffe was the First Person to Contribute to Neil Abercrombie's Campaign for Governor of Hawaii

It's understood in Hawaii political circles that lobbyist John Radcliffe is close to Governor Neil Abercrombie. There friendship spans more than a generation.  As Abercrombie was launching his campaign for Governor, Radcliffe acted as an operative spinning circumstances in the press intended to clear the field. And when Abercrombie was elected, Radcliffe was one of a handful of intimates whom Abercrombie asked to vet and recommend people who would fill key rolls and appointments in Abercrombie's administration.

As demonstration of their relationship, consider that campaign finance disclosure records on file with the State reveal that the very first person to financially back Abercrombie's bid to become Hawaii's Governor was John Radcliffe.  He wrote a check for $2,000 to Abercrombie for Governor on March 4, 2009.  Over the course of the campaign, Radcliffe's immediately family would contribute nearly $12,000 in aggregate to Abercrombie's campaign committee.

Throughout most of the first decade of the new century, Radcliffe has been registered as a lobbyist representing the Hawaii interests of Detroit casino syndicators (Michael Malik & Marian Ilitch) who want to develop a Waikiki gambling hall. Radcliffe has been retained by the Detroiter's PR firm, Lansing-based Marketing Resource Group (MRG).  Tom Shields, often quoted as a spokesperson for the Detroiters, is founder and president of MRG.

To review related content, click on the "Labels" located under the social media share buttons at the bottom of this post or consider these select posts:

• Rogues Gallery: Hawaii Lobbyists G. A. "Red" Morris, John Radcliffe and company they keep...
• She Said: Here's what Hata-Watanabe had to offer after a recent visit to TheVerifiableTruth.com
• Hawaii's Former Governor John D. Waihee III Opposed Legalized Gambling in Hawaii
• Strange Bedfellows: Hawaii's Former Governor & Detroit's Gambling Promoter?
• Boyd Gaming establishing first-hand knowledge of and developing customer base in Hawaii, could prove valuable to Waikiki Gambling Hall Operator
• Lobbyists Spent $40,000 Manufacturing So-Called 'Citizens' Group Support for Oahu Casino Scheme
• Detroiters' Gambling Advocate Hired as Hawaii Governor's Communications Director

Really? She's Treasurer of the Honolulu County GOP Committee? Has Anybody Checked the Bank Accounts Lately?

The Website for the Honolulu County GOP Committee lists the group’s Treasurer as Elizabeth Hata Watanabe.  Really?  Do they know Liz’s track record?

Liz, as she’s known in party/club circles, was the owner operator of a failed nightclub, the O Lounge.  Yes that enterprise failed as a business.

While Watanabe did a tremendous job promoting herself and her club among reporters, it would appear that the nightclub was not a financial success.  She shuttered the doors to the night club in the wake of escalating scrutiny by the Honolulu Liquor Commission – for additional insights, review the HLC agendas/minutes in 2008 & 2009 . 

Besides being cited and fined multiple times for serving alcohol to minors, Watanabe apparently hid her books from HLC investigators for four years – pretty suspicious don’t you think?  Especially considering her husband was a 20+ year veteran of the Honolulu PD. 

The adjudications against The O Lounge for three violations of 281-78(b)(1)(A), HRS (selling, serving or furnishing liquor to minors), for violation of Rule 3-84-78.52 (stacking) and for violation of Rule 3-81-17.54(d) (failing to make readily available for inspection its books and records for the last four years).  HLC – 7/24/08

The O Lounge pled no contest and was fined a total of $4,000 for two repeat violations of Section 281-78(b)(1)(A), HRS (selling, serving or furnishing liquor to a minor). The Commission also placed the licensee on probation for six months effective Sept. 11, 2008.  HLC - 9/11/08

[While on Probation] Allegations against The O Lounge were proved, and the licensee was fined $2,000 for a repeat violation of Section 281-78(b)(1)(A), HRS (selling, serving or furnishing liquor to a minor). HLC - 1/29/09

[While on Probation] Allegations against The O Lounge were proved, and the licensee was fined $2,000 for a repeat violation of Section 281-78(b)(1)(A), HRS (selling, serving or furnishing liquor to a minor). HLC – 2/5/09

Reviewed the six-month probationary period for The O Lounge and decided to continue the probation, suspension, age restriction (21 and over) and required that special events be approved by HLC enforcement before the event.  HLC – 3/19/09

As things were about to blow up, she closed down the bar and told her reporter friends that she was going to focus on her roles as a mother and wife, do something more family oriented, maybe a children’s TV program – and instead got herself involved in a short lived realty TV show, Hawaii’s Big Deal Poker Tournament.  That show lasted for several months and she lead people to believe there would be a second season of the show.

 Nothing ever materialized and it’s suggested the show didn’t pencil out.  Or perhaps investors said, “No” or “no more,” to a scam that had no ROI.

Then on June 14, 2011, Elizabeth Hata-Watanabe filed Chapter 7 Bankruptcy (Case: 11-01679).

The woman repeatedly allowed alcohol to be served to minors, hid her nightclub’s ledgers from regulators for four years and filed a personal bankruptcy; yet, the good people at the Honolulu GOP Committee think she’s the best person to be their Treasurer?  Somebody better check that organization’s books – if they can find them.  Better yet, somebody better go check the GOP Committee’s bank accounts.

Find related content by clicking on any "labels" located below the social media share buttons at the bottom of this post or consider these selected posts:

• She Said: Here's what Hata-Watanabe had to offer after a recent visit to TheVerifiableTruth.com
• Failed Nightclub Owner is a Shameless Self-Promoter
• Really? She's Treasurer of the Honolulu County GOP Committee?
• Hawaii's 'Citizens for a Better Way' isn't a 'Citizens' Group After-all
• Lobbyists Spent $40,000 Manufacturing So-Called 'Citizens' Group Support for Oahu Casino Scheme
• There Can Be No Doubt Detroiters' Hawaii Lobbyist John Radcliffe Created Pro-Casino So-Called 'Citizens' Group'

Disgraced Lobbyist Jack Abramoff Out of Jail and on 60 Minutes; Talks About What He Did & How He Did It

click arrow below to play video here

Jack Abramoff: The lobbyist's playbook

November 6, 2011 4:02 PM

Crooked lobbyist Jack Abramoff explains how he asserted his influence in Congress for years, and how such corruption continues today despite ethics reform. Lesley Stahl reports.

Read Story: Jack Abramoff: The lobbyist's playbook

Detroit Gambling Promoters Trying to Buy Influence with NY Senator Schumer?

Sen. Charles Schumer

Although U.S. Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) was against efforts by the Shinnecock Indian Nation to receive Federal Recognition, Michael J. Malik, Sr., the controversial Detroit gambling promoter behind the Shinnecock's successful efforts, and an individual whose affiliates (Gateway Casino Resorts, etc.) apparently have exclusive rights to develop, manage and operate any future Shinnecock Long Island casino(s), is among the top seven donors to Schumer's secret IMPACT PAC. (Source: FindTheData.org)

Further Malik, and members of Detroit's Ilitch Family (his gambling partners) have contributed a total of $24,200 to Schumer's political committees since April 2010. (Source: opensecrets.org)

In addition between June 2008 and September 2010, Malik contributed another $45,400 to the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), the group responsible for getting Democrats re-elected to the U.S. Senate. In total, Malik and members of the Ilitch family have contributed  $210,600.00 to the DSCC since December 2005.(Source: transparencydata.com)

Schumer was re-elected to the Senate in November 2010.

See also:

• Scandal Continues to Plague Political and Lobbying Activities of Detroiters Bankrolling Shinnecock Casino Plans
• NY Governor Cuomo Latest To Reject Campaign Contributions from Ilitch Gambling Partner Michael Malik
• Questions Surrounding $15K Gov. Cuomo Accepted From Detroit Casino Syndicator
• NY Senators Return Michael Malik's Campaign Contributions
• Rep. Tim Bishop (D-NY) Caught Taking More Money from Notorious Law-Breaking Detroit Casino Syndicator
• Congressman Bishop Under Fire For Accepting Michael Malik's Contribution
• Ilitch affiliate retains former U.S. Senator Alfonse D'Amato's lobbying firm to push New York Casino plans for Shinnecock

Detroiters have already Seduced Elmont Chamber of Commerce into supporting their Casino Schemes

The Detroiters pushing for a Shinnecock Indian casino at Belmont Race Track have already infiltrated, the Elmont Chamber of Commerce. Traditionally their first target of opportunity is the local Chamber. Here's how they'll seduce the Chamber:  (1) Embrace the local chamber establishment because they’ll be blinded and overwhelmed by the largess of your big hollow economic arguments; (2) Sell them the miracle drug (often a placebo) that will get their desperate economic circumstances moving in a positive direction again and let them wash it down with the Kool-Aid ; and (3) keep them satisfied by throwing around a couple hundred dollars here and there that they can use to go shopping.

But think about it... if these tired their promises and strategies had any truth to them, why is Detroit the worst city in America by nearly all accounts -- but certainly economically?  And now that Detroit's has had the benefits raking in the casino cash for nearly a decade, why did Forbes just rank Detroit #1 Most Dangerous City in America? And how is it that Detroit taxpayers are across the board worse off than they were ten years ago and yet Forbes reports that in the last year alone, the net worth of Mike and Marian Ilitch, they’re the Detroiters behind Gateway Casino Resorts, jumped from $1.7 billion to $2 billion?  

Here’s how:  target places that are already economically challenged/depressed.  Create economic arguments, pulled together by third party consultants that are simply recycled from the last campaign they ran using models that are untested in the real world or purely theoretical.  Reports and messages suggesting a windfall; talk that suggests public/private partnerships but truly leans on the backs of hardworking taxpayers; and shameless about pushing special exemptions, freebies, condemnations, grants and other taxpayer subsidies.

Put on a few Dog & Pony Shows (but please no cameras)

On October 20, 2011, Detroiter Michael Malik flew in his crew to Elmont and at a regularly scheduled meeting of Chamber members, provided what was billed as a detailed peek at renderings and plans for the proposed project.  Malik forbid, however, any photographs of the renderings and failed to distribute any of his own images for people to take with them.  Either those images were re-cycled architectural images that have rolled out previously elsewhere, or they’re renderings that haven’t been approved by Shinnecock leaders or others who will have input/veto and could change significantly. But pictures get people excited and suggest, often falsely,  that things are moving ahead quickly.  If that was the case, images would have been released or photography allowed – at least by local news outlets.

Buy Some Ads

There are Shinnecock favorable ads and advertorial now in rotation on the Elmont Chamber’s website: Elmont.org.  A video shares a glimpse into the Shinnecock heritage and culture and links to the Shinnecock Indian Nation website.  An ad graphic showing two men in hardhats touts “A Belmont Casino Would Create Up To 5,500 Good Paying Jobs for Elmont” with a “Learn More” button that when clicked lands visitors  on a Facebook page for a group calling itself “Alliance for a Belmont Casino.” 

Create the Appearances of a Grassroots Movement

That Alliance Facebook page appears to have been created sometime before June 23, 2011.  To date there are a little more than 100 Facebook users who “Like” the page. Posts generally visible are added by the administrator of the page and there is very little fan interaction at this time.  The info tab on the Facebook pages suggests it has been set up by the Shinnecock or their agents because the only link/contact details provided lead back to the Shinnecock Indian Nation’s website.

Al D'Amato retained to advance Detroiters Long Island Casino Schemes is also leading fight for online gaming

Former U.S. Senator Alfonse D'Amato (R-NY) is Chairman of the Board of the Poker Players Alliance (theppa.org).  From 2005 through 2011, Poker Players Alliance paid more than $15 million to D.C. lobbying firms who helped them advance their agenda.

Poker Players Alliance

Mission Statement

The Poker Players Alliance (PPA) is a non-profit membership organization comprised of online and offline poker players. Our membership consists of enthusiasts from around the United States who have joined together to speak with one voice to promote the game and protect the right to play poker in all its forms.

The PPA’s mission is to establish favorable laws that provide poker players with a secure, safe and regulated place to play. Through education and awareness the PPA will keep this game of skill, one of America’s oldest recreational activities, free from egregious government intervention and misguided laws.

The PPA is committed to defending the rights of poker players. On behalf of our broad membership, we will promote and protect poker through advocacy work in Washington, D.C., and throughout the nation. The Poker Players Alliance will work with key lawmakers to ensure a thoughtful and productive dialogue that represents everyone who enjoys and wants to protect the game.

But the PPA’s most powerful resource is its membership base, the players. Through our Web site, www.theppa.org, and through direct contact with our members, the Poker Players Alliance is empowering poker players and enthusiasts to deliver positive messages about the game and why it should be protected to federal, state, and local elected representatives.

D'Amato is also founder and managing director of the Park Strategies LLC lobbying firm.  That firm was retained this year by Gateway Casino Resorts, a gaming affiliate of Detroiters Marian Ilitch and Michael Malik. Gateway has the exclusive rights to develop, manage and operate Shinnecock Indian Nation casinos on Long Island (NY).

Malik, a controversial wheeler-dealer, has failed to obtain a Michigan gaming license.  As such, in 1999 he was forced out of the original partnership group that founded Detroit's MotorCity Casino.  Upon that failure, Malik sought to develop online gaming opportunities under various affiliates but given U.S. restrictions on such, has put those schemes on hold up until now.

Despite Millions in Lobbying and Political $$$, Ilitch toady Rep. Candice Miller has Failed to Deliver GOP Support for their Casino Schemes

Port Huron Times Herald Columnist Mike Connell points out the failure by the Ilitch Family, Michael Malik and their political toddy Rep. Candice Miller to actually win GOP Political support on Capitol Hill for their failed Bay Mills Indian Community casino schemes.

Note: Ilitch and Malik families have contributed $83,000 directly to Rep. Candice Miller during the last decade and raised thousands more from friends, business associates and partners in their investment syndicates.  They've paid millions ($3,325,000.00) to D.C. Lobbying firms intended to back up Rep. Miller's efforts.

A tale of 2 cities: Motown vs. PoHo

10.16.2011

...IF IT IS TRUE, and we may never know with certainty, it would not be the first time Motown has plucked a plum from PoHo.

A memorable example came three years ago when then-Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick led Detroit's successful effort to block a casino in Port Huron.

Kwame's mommy, former U.S. Rep. Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, and Detroit's other representative, John Conyers, crushed the Port Huron casino bill on the House floor. They did so by making an unusual -- some might say unholy -- alliance with out-state Republicans.

U.S. Rep. Candice Miller, whose district includes St. Clair County, supported the casino, but she could not convince any of her Republican colleagues in the Michigan delegation to join her. Overall, Republicans opposed the measure, 167-25, shattering whatever hopes Port Huron had... (Complete Column)

Growing List of NY Politicians Rejecting $$$ from Ilitch Partner Michael Malik

New York Lawmakers chosing to distance themselves 

from Detroit Syndicator with history breaking laws

Some of New York’s politicians have had their hands out and are blindly banking campaign contributions from Detroit casino syndicator Michael Malik; then, publicly supporting his Long Island gambling schemes.  Reps. Carolyn McCarthy and Tim Bishop are two examples.

On the other hand, some elected officials, including New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, are onto his ways and this past year have rejected Malik’s money and association. 

See where they stand:

Said “No” to Malik REJECTED Syndicator’s $$$	Said “Yes” to Malik ACCEPTED Syndicator’s $$$
Braunstein, Assemblyman Edward Cuomo, Governor Andrew Johnson, Senator Craig Klein, Senator Jeffrey	Bishop, Rep. Timothy Gillibrand, US Senator Kirsten Kruger, Senator Carl McCarthy, Rep. Carolyn Rangel, Rep. Charles Schumer, US Senator Charles

SOURCES:  transparencydata.com, fec.com, campaignmoney.com

See data tables used for analysis

For almost a decade Detroit gambling syndicator Mike Malik has financed and orchestrated efforts intended to win him (and Mrs. Marian Ilitch) the right to develop and run gambling halls in the New York City marketplace.  He is using the Shinnecock Indian Nation to front his schemes.  But he and his partners have dumped millions trying to influence politicians and win their favor.  And all along he’s been expanding his resume as a notorious law-breaker.

In recent years, controversial Detroiter Michael J. Malik, Sr., has been:

• Tangled up in a federally prosecuted Ponzi scheme case, in partnership with the ringleader who is now a fugitive hiding out in Brazil, and forced to repay $170,000 obtained fraudulently. 
• Found guilty and on probation for violating Arizona’s firearms laws.
• Found to have violated campaign finance laws repeatedly (2006 & 2009) and fined a total of $10,000+ for his actions.
• Denied a gaming license in Michigan; reportedly because the MGCB had concerns stemming from IRS tax issues and a domestic violence arrest for which Malik served on year’s probation after beating his then-girlfriend’s 12-year-old son. 

Cuomo, Braunstein, Johnson & Klein decided to distance themselves from Malik given his controversial, law-breaking history.


See also:

• Scandal Continues to Plague Political and Lobbying Activities of Detroiters Bankrolling Shinnecock Casino Plans
• NY Governor Cuomo Latest To Reject Campaign Contributions from Ilitch Gambling Partner Michael Malik
• Questions Surrounding $15K Gov. Cuomo Accepted From Detroit Casino Syndicator
• NY Senators Return Michael Malik's Campaign Contributions
• Rep. Tim Bishop (D-NY) Caught Taking More Money from Notorious Law-Breaking Detroit Casino Syndicator
• Congressman Bishop Under Fire For Accepting Michael Malik's Contribution
• Ilitch affiliate retains former U.S. Senator Alfonse D'Amato's lobbying firm to push New York Casino plans for Shinnecock
• Shinnecock Casino Backers have dropped $117,500 on top-ranking NY Politicians
• Ilitch partner funneling thousands to influence Suffolk County Exec

NY Governor Cuomo Latest To Reject Campaign Contributions from Ilitch Gambling Partner Michael Malik

NY Gov. Andrew Cuomo rejects campaign $$$ from
controversial Detroit wheeler-dealer Michael Malik

New information available via Transparency Data a project of the Sunlight Foundation, indicates that New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has joined the ranks of New York politicians refusing to accept campaign gifts from controversial Detroit casino syndicator Michael Malik. 

On October 18, 2010, Governor Cuomo’s campaign committee returned a $10,000 check that Malik had attempted to funnel to the campaign via the Democratic Committee of New York State on September  28, 2010.

Cuomo joins the growing ranks of New York politicians who have returned or otherwise rejected campaign contributions from Malik during the last year.  They included:

•  Assemblyman Edward C. Braunstein
• Senator Craig M. Johnson (ret.)
• Senator Jeffrey D. Klein

During the 2010 election, voters and the media turned up the heat questioning the motivations of US Rep. Tim Bishop and called upon him to also reject Malik’s bankroll.

To quiet things down, Bishop indicated he would consider and then might return Malik’s money.  He didn’t!

In fact, on March 31, 2011, Rep. Bishop banked another $2,500 from his pal Malik.  Bishop has also publicly endorsed Malik’s schemes to use the Shinnecock Indians to establish casinos Malik will run nearest to the New York City/Manhattan marketplace.

Malik a Detroit-area native, can not get a gaming license in Michigan. Since 1999, despite several attempts, Malik has failed to get a license from the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB). His schemes for New York won't require him to get a gaming license from the State.

When you look historically into the campaign finance violations, questionable ethics and circumstances that Malik got tangled up in with pals like former Reps. Don Young and Richard Pombo (fundraising, lobbying, travel & other gifts), one can only consider what else Malik’s up to with “support” for Rep. Bishop or even worse, a character like Rep. Charlie Rangel.  It should be noted that Young and Pombo failed to win re-election after getting in bed with Malik.

U.S. Rep Carolyn McCarthy has also accepted Malik’s money.  This last week, NewsDay reported she too was publicly endorsing Malik’s schemes to use the Shinnecock Indian Nation as a way for him to develop and run a gambling complex at Belmont Park on Long Island.

Malik and fellow Detroiter Marian Ilitch (Mrs. Mike Ilitch: Detroit Tigers, Red Wings, Little Caesars pizza) are business partners. He shares office space alongside hers in the executive suites at Ilitch Holdings, Inc. But, he's not an Ilitch "employee." If he was, his tactics -- sometimes illegal, and often borderline unethical behavior -- would become an issue for the Family's businesses.  Think of Malik as the black hat, bag man, to Marian's white hat.

Rep. Tim Bishop (D-NY) Caught Taking More Money from Notorious Law-Breaking Detroit Casino Syndicator

Rep. Tim Bishop (D-NY)

During the 2010 election cycle US Rep. Timothy Bishop (D-NY) came under fire for accepting contributions from Detroiter Michael Malik. After some heel-dragging by the Bishop campaign, it was reported that Rep. Bishop would return the funds he received from Malik. He did not!

Rather, according to records available at OpenSecrets.org, Bishop accepted an additional $2,500 from Malik on March 31, 2011.

Bishop is one of a handful of Long Island politicians helping Malik use the Shinnecock Indian Nation to advance his own schemes to bring gambling ventures convenient to the New York City marketplace.

In recent years, Detroit gambling syndicator Michael Malik, a controversial character with a history of law-breaking, has been:

• Tangled up in a federally prosecuted Ponzi scheme, in partnership with the ringleader who is now a fugitive who has taken asylum in Brazil, and forced to repay $170,000 obtained fraudulently (Golberg v. Malik).
• Found guilty and on suspension for violating Arizona’s firearms laws.
• Found to have violated campaign finance laws repeatedly (2006 & 2009) and fined more than $10,000 for his actions.
• Denied a gaming license by the Michigan Gaming Control Board; reportedly because of federal tax issues and a prior domestic violence arrest and subsequent probation.

US Rep Tim Bishop | Contributions Report

Shinnecock and Ilitch affiliate Gateway Casino Resorts paid $1.5 million to New York Lobbyists

Backers of various proposals to build Native American casinos on Long Island, NY, including a casino complex adjacent to Belmont Park Race Track, have paid New York state lobbyists more than $1.5 million since 2005.  The Shinnecock Indian Nation bankrolled by its partners, the people behind a Detroit-based syndication known as Gateway Casino Resorts, have funneled a total of $1,502,280 to these four lobbying firms:

Lobbying Firm	Total Fees Paid
Mercury (fka IGR Group, fka FHGR, fka Mercury Public Affairs, LLC)	$1,234,780
Brian R. Meara + Meara Avela Dickinson	$240,000
Meyer Suozzi English & Klein, PC	$20,000
Park Strategies, LLC	$7,500
TOTAL LOBBYING FEES PAID	$1,502,280

More than 80% of the lobbying fees paid by the Shinnecock Indian Nation/Gateway Casino Resorts have gone to Mercury Public Affairs which has also been known as IGR Group and FHGR (Fleishman Hillard Government Relations). Mercury lobbyists representing the casino interests have included Peter Barden, Thomas Doherty, Kieran Mahoney, Michael McKeon and Mark Streb. Doherty, Mahoney and McKeon had ties to former Governor George Pataki.  McKeon was executive director of Republicans for Cuomo helping New York Governor Andrew Cuomo win his 2010 election.

The latest edition to the Shinnecock/Gateway stable of lobbying firms is Park Strategies, LLC.  That firm was founded by former U.S. Senator (NY) Alfonse D'Amoto.  Among the lobbyists registered to support the expansion of casinos on Long Island is Anthony Cancellieri, former Chief Deputy County Executive of Nassau County.  Belmont Park Race Track, one of the preferred locations for a Shinnecock/Gateway casino development, is located in Nassau County, NY.

During 2011, The Shinnecock Indians and Gateway Casino Resorts had monthly retainer agreements with four New York lobbying firms as follows:

2011 Monthly Retainers
Lobbying Firm	Retainer Amount
Mercury	$10,000
Meara Avela Dickinson	$10,000
Meyer Suozzi English & Klein, PC	$10,000
Park  Strategies, LLC	$15,000

Source: records available at nyintegrity.org

See also:

• Ilitch affiliate retains former U.S. Senator Alfonse D'Amato's lobbying firm to push New York Casino plans for Shinnecock
• D.C. Lobbyists Paid $2.33 Million to Advance Shinnecock Casinos
• Shinnecock Casino Backers have dropped $117,500 on top-ranking NY Politicians
• Scandal Continues to Plague Political and Lobbying Activities of Detroiters Bankrolling Shinnecock Casino Plans
• Michael Malik: The Latest Life & Times of a Detroit Casino Syndicator